What Does 'Non-GMO fed' Mean and Why Does It Matter?

1. Hormones for Faster Growth

In today’s conventional model, nearly all feedlot cattle in the U.S. and Canada receive hormonal implants—a mix of up to six anabolic steroids—to accelerate growth rates.

Traces of these hormones remain in the animal’s muscles, fat, and organs even at the time of slaughter. While the FDA has established “acceptable daily intakes,” the long-term effects of consuming hormone residues have never been thoroughly studied.

At Premium Dakota Beef, we believe your food should be as natural as possible. That’s why we proudly offer 100% hormone-free beef—just pure, authentic flavor from healthy animals.

2. Routine Use of Antibiotics

Here’s a startling fact: about 80% of all antibiotics used in the United States are given to animals in the food system. They’re often administered not only to prevent illness but also to promote faster growth.

This widespread antibiotic use contributes to resistance concerns and disrupts natural gut balance in livestock.

At Premium Dakota Beef, our cattle are never given routine antibiotics. Raised in a natural, low-stress environment, they grow strong and healthy the way nature intended—resulting in cleaner, safer, and more flavorful beef.

3. Ionophores: The Hidden Antibiotics

Ionophores are additives used in conventional feed to improve feed efficiency and weight gain—but what many people don’t realize is that ionophores are classified as antibiotics.

They disrupt beneficial microorganisms in the cow’s rumen, impairing digestion and preventing proper nutrient absorption. The result? Cattle consuming “empty calories.”

At Premium Dakota Beef, we support healthy digestion naturally—with probiotics that enhance gut health and maximize nutrient absorption. No shortcuts. No artificial interventions.

4. GMO Feed and Chemical Exposure

Conventional cattle diets often include GMO corn, GMO soy, GMO alfalfa, and cheap by-products like distillers grains. These genetically modified crops are designed to survive potent pesticide applications—most commonly glyphosate, the active ingredient in RoundUp.

Research increasingly links glyphosate exposure to serious health issues, including gut inflammation, infertility, hormonal disruption, and even cancer.

At Premium Dakota Beef, we grow and source 100% Non-GMO feed right on our farms. That means no genetically modified crops and no chemical sprays directly applied to live plants. It’s better for our cattle, our land, and your health.