Tex/Econ, if you will study the history just on this site, you can see that the Grass Fed Beef proponent are the ones attempting to divide producers into those selling 'good' (Grass-Fed) and those selling 'dangerous' (Grain Fed) beef.
Fact is, Grass Fed beef is almost exclusively what my family has eaten forever, and we prefer it, though for special occasions some wonderfull Prime beef, properly cut and prepared is a real treat for us.
Fact, too, is that MANY consumers strongly prefer Grain Fed beef.
I believe there is NO difference, nutritionally, other than POSSIBLE fat content, between the two.
Obvioulsy, there is a difference in nutrients and taste/texture between a grass leaf or stem,and it's seeds. I never said there isn't. Others, not I, HAVE said or implied that feeding grass is good, and feeding grains is bad.
My observation is that we need BOTH grass-fed and grain-fed cattle to serve needs/wants of consumers.
Just don't use trash talk against grain fed to promote grass fed is all I ask.
BTW, please shine up and try to repair the cracks in your crystal ball and tell us what the "NCBA strategy plan" is which YOU believe depends upon "dividing the beef producers". If you know of a diabolical plan detrimental to cattle producers, aren't you obligated to share that information for the greater good?
mrj