Ruminant animals, including cattle, sheep, and goats, play a unique role in sustainable food systems. In a recent article titled “Examining the Role of Ruminants in Sustainable Food Systems,” Dr. Sara Place, Associate Professor and Feedlot Systems Specialist, delves into the nuanced arguments surrounding ruminant agriculture. Published in Grass and Forage Science, this article explores the complex perspectives often presented both in support of and against the use of ruminants in agriculture.

Different perspectives on the role of ruminants and the extent to which we should use ruminants in our food systems often come down to different frameworks for viewing sustainability. The discussion topics and ideas from this publication are presented in the following fact sheet: