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Boundless Life

Is This The Healthiest Steak In The World? The *Crazy* Story Of How One Breed Of Cattle Became A Protein Powerhouse (& How You Can Get It!) With Justin Owens.

Feb 15, 2025
In this conversation with Justin Owens, a farmer and founder of Owens Farms, he shares his journey from a thoroughbred stud farm to raising the unique Piedmontese cattle. This breed is celebrated for its exceptional meat quality, tenderness, and health benefits due to the myostatin gene. Owens discusses the crucial link between animal welfare and meat quality, debunking myths about grass-fed diets. He also highlights innovative dining experiences and the potential of Piedmontese beef in promoting heart health, making this a feast for both the palate and the mind.
01:01:50

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Quick takeaways

  • Piedmontese cattle possess unique genetic traits that enable increased muscle growth, resulting in exceptionally lean and tender meat compared to conventional breeds.
  • The sustainable feeding practices and careful butchering techniques contribute to the high nutritional quality and superior flavor of Piedmontese beef, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Deep dives

The Unique Traits of Piedmontese Cattle

Piedmontese cattle have remarkable genetic traits that enable them to thrive in extreme environments. Originating from a lineage that dates back approximately 20,000 years, these cattle can graze at altitudes of 8,000 feet in the Alps and withstand temperature extremes ranging from 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer to minus 65 degrees in the winter. The breed's unique genetic makeup includes an inactive myostatin gene, which allows for increased muscle growth without the normal fat deposition associated with other breeds. This characteristic results in Piedmontese cattle having about 30-35% more muscle mass compared to conventional cattle, making their meat exceptionally lean and tender.

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