Today, informed consumers favor bison meat for its unique, nutritional benefits. It is higher in protein, lower in fat and calories, and also lower in cholesterol, than almost all meats and even some fish. Bison contains more iron and less sodium per serving than beef and is recommended by cardiologists and physicians for people watching their diets and for those with heart conditions. Bison is a smart alternative to beef for those people who seek a red meat rich with protein, yet "all natural."* Much of the bison produced in this country today is also not subjected to chemicals or other drug additives.

But, perhaps most compelling of all its characteristics, Bison meat tastes great! It is sweeter than beef, has a dense, yet tender consistency and can be prepared in a variety of ways to fit with anyone's tastes. (See The Bison Chef's recipes.)

Bison meat produced in this country is, for the most part, free range, meaning that it lives openly on a ranch, range or farm, grazing and eating at its own will. Bison like to eat grass, and sometimes grain. Of course, there are subtle

Nutritional Composition of Bison Meat Per 100 grams of cooked lean meat   Fat/Grams KCA/Calories MG/Cholesterol Bison 2.42 143 82 Beef 9.28 211 86 Pork 9.66 212 86 Chicken 7.41 190 89

differences among producers, but in general, bison can be said to be "all-natural" and many producers boast of herds that are kept free from hormones, steroids and drugs. Many producers and consumers also distinguish between grass-fed and grain-fed animals. (See FAQs for a more in-depth discussion of grass- versus grain-fed bison.)

As a general rule, bison meat should be cooked at a lower heat, slower than beef, for example, and turned often. It tastes best when roasts and filets are served medium, pink in the center and with juices running.

* All natural - Bison are raised without hormones or steroids. At Downhill Farms, however, we do vaccinate against common diseases such as blackleg, and common ailments such as pinkeye. We do not want to see an animal suffer from something that is easily prevented.