The largest mammal on our continent and the national mammal of the United States, bison are truly majestic and impressive creatures. Bison has recently generated a lot of buzz in the culinary and health communities. What should we be aware of when eating bison? Should we be eating ground bison? Is bison red meat healthy? whats the difference?.
There are numerous benefits to switching from bison to beef. Lets take a look at what the differences are.
Share the same intake recommendations
Numerous studies advise you to consume less red meat, but opinions on how much is safe to consume vary greatly.
The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends limiting your red meat intake to no more than 18 ounces (510 grams) per week. This includes meats like bison, beef, pork, and lamb (5).
On the other hand, a global report on healthy and sustainable diets suggests that you limit your red meat intake even further to about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) per week (6).
It’s important to consume red meat in moderation because some research suggests that eating a lot of red meat, especially processed varieties, may increase your risk of developing certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer (7).
Differences between bison and beef
Although these two red meats appear to be quite similar, there are a few distinctions to be made.
Bison is leaner and lower in calories
If you want to cut back on calories or fat, bison may be a better option because it is leaner than beef.
It has nearly 25% fewer calories than beef and is lower in total and saturated fat (2, 3)
Bison also has finer fat marbling because of its lower fat content, which results in meat that is softer and more tender.
One of the most significant differences between bison meat and beef may be the diets of the bison and cattle from which they come (8).
In fact, this difference may also explain some of the nutritional variations between these two meats (8).
Since bison are typically pasture-raised, unlike most cattle, they are more likely to be fed grass. Therefore, choosing bison that has been fed only grass may be more environmentally friendly (9)
On the other hand, beef is more likely to be grain-fed and produced in factory farms. Due to eating a diet composed mainly of corn or soy, the cattle grow at a quicker rate (10).
However, some farmers are starting to feed their buffalo grain to meet demand as the demand for bison meat increases.
However, it is still possible to find grass-fed, sustainably raised beef and bison in supermarkets and butcher shops.
However, beef and bison raised on both grass and grains can be included in a balanced diet. However, grass-fed meat is typically more expensive in the United States, and some people might not think it is worth the additional cost.
Beef and bison are both edible, but they come from different animals.
Their impact on the environment may be their most significant difference.
In addition, bison has fewer calories and fat than other meats, so it might be a better choice if you want something a little bit healthier.
However, both kinds of meat are incredibly nutritious and can be included in a balanced diet.
The Shocking Truth About Bison (Buffalo) vs Beef (Cow) – by Dr Sam Robbins
FAQ
Why is bison better than beef for the environment?
It is believed that bison have less of an impact on the environment of the plains than cattle do in terms of erosion and trampling, that their diet is higher in grasses and therefore less harmful to the environment over the long term, and that bison poop serves as a natural fertilizer for their habitats.
Why does bison taste better than beef?
Compared to beef, bison typically has a lighter, more delicate flavor that some people describe as slightly sweeter. Additionally, bison meat has a high iron content, which gives it a distinct flavor that many describe as “earthy” or “mineral.” However, this flavor is not overpowering and the bison is not at all “gamey.”
Why do bodybuilders eat bison?
The ideal food for any bodybuilding diet is bison because it is a rich source of zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. Additionally, it’s a fantastic source of healthy fats and lean protein.
Is bison more digestible than beef?
In conclusion, it makes sense that bison are a superior choice to beef and a high-quality, easily digestible food to sustain human lives.