Galloways are one of the oldest cattle breeds in the world. Galloways are extensive grazers, meaning their barrel shape with shorter legs enables them to naturally roam and graze comfortably on the hills, where, as well as grassland, they eat purple moor grasses and heather. This has two benefits: their meat is flavoured by our over 64 grass species, and our land benefits from improved biodiversity based on their grazing habits.
• We have had Galloways on our land since 1997. They are the pioneers of conservation grazing, now seen as crucial in modern-day farming.
• The land our Galloways graze is free from artificial fertilisers, and virtually untouched since the bronze age.
• Our Galloways are not forced into housing in the winter- they have the freedom to graze outdoors year-round, with access to shelter when they want it.
The double-coat of hair unique to the Galloway breed allows them to graze outdoors, year-round. Their level of fitness also means they calve easily, so we have very little need for vetinary interventions or medicines. The extra coat of hair means the fat in their beef is dispersed throughout the meat, not just on the outer layer of the meat where cattle with less hair store their fat to keep them warm.
Galloway beef is sought after by many butchers. One such well-established butcher notes “the Galloway traditional breed is a sweeter meat due to the fact that the animals are kept outside all year round, and for a longer timeframe, usually two summers”.
Many studies show Galloway beef to be higher in protein, minerals and anti-oxidants, while low in cholesterol and saturated fat and the marbled fat has an exceptionally good Omega 6:3 ratio. This is a key benefit of their diet and grazing behaviour.
We are grateful to our many loyal customers, who value how we farm, and the special qualities of our meat, and of course, we are grateful to our Galloways.
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