foragefed

Foragefed is a term used in livestock production to describe animals whose diets are composed predominantly of forage—grasses, legumes, and other forage crops such as hay and silage—rather than high-energy concentrates like cereals. In practice, foragefed systems include pasture-based grazing for cattle, sheep, and goats, as well as hay- or silage-based feeding, with only limited supplemental feed.

In typical foragefed operations, the majority of daily dry matter intake comes from forage, and animals may be moved through pastures in rotational grazing to optimize forage availability. Some programs permit mineral supplements or small amounts of energy-rich feed during certain periods, but the emphasis remains on forage. The approach can be total or partial, depending on production goals, climate, and land resources.

Proponents cite benefits for animal welfare and natural behavior, soil health, biodiversity, and reduced reliance on grains, along with potential advantages in certain grazing systems for carbon storage and rural livelihoods. Foragefed meat and dairy products are often marketed to consumers seeking grass-based or pasture-based options.

Critics note that foragefed production can yield slower growth or lower milk yields, and may result in greater variability in product weight, fat content, or taste. Land use and climate sensitivity can be higher in some contexts, and the environmental footprint depends heavily on management practices such as stocking rates and rotational grazing. Emissions from ruminants on forage-dominated diets are a subject of ongoing study and debate.

There is no universal standard for the term, and labeling varies by region and certification. Terms like grass-fed, pasture-raised, or forage-based are used with differing criteria, which can cause consumer confusion.