James Beard Award-Winning Chef Claims Walmart Beef is Better Than Montana Beef

I'm going to be straight up with you, right out of the gate: as soon as I saw what we're about to discuss, I knew instantly the state of Montana would have a bone to pick with this.

I'm actually very curious to hear what native Montanans think about this and invite you to share your thoughts with me below when it's all said and done.

James Beard Award-Winning Chef Makes Bold Beef Statement

Since arriving in Montana, I've associated the state with a variety of things that include mountains, the great outdoors, and of course - beef.

Montana ranchers don't mess around when it comes to producing some of the best beef in the country, shoot, possibly the planet.'

ALSO READ: Is This New Food Challenge in Great Falls Even Possible?

That's why I was a little taken back when I came across a story about James Beard award-winning Chef Chris Shepherd who claims, according to Fox News:

"Walmart is one of the best places in America to buy USDA Prime beef — praising the retailer for offering high-quality cuts at affordable prices."

Whether or not he's trying to get his name out there, that's a bold statement for a person whose entire background is food and has an award to back up his expertise.

Why I Disagree with Chef Chris Shepherd

One of the things I love about this country is freedom of speech. Sure, this guy knows more than me about the art of food but I still have a right to disagree.

I think the best place to get your prime beef is from Montana ranchers and let me tell you why.

First, you know where your beef is coming from. I mean the specific ranch, the breed, and even the raising practices. Experts have been encouraging consumers to get their beef from local ranchers for some time and continue to do so to this day.

Get our free mobile app

Also, during my research I learned that many Montana ranchers use "regenerative or grass-based systems" that improve soil health, biodiversity, and other fancy scientific benefits I'm still learning about.

On the other side, Walmart beef is reportedly from grain-finished feedlot cattle.

Montana ranchers often raise their cattle without routine hormones or antibiotics too. And I don't know about you, but that's the way I prefer my beef. Walmart often gets their beef from systems where hormones and antibiotics may be more common.

But what do I know? I'm just a radio guy who writes articles.

And this is where I want your opinion.

Is Chef Chris Shepherd onto something here? Am I crazy for thinking locally sourced Montana beef is better than Walmart beef? How does this make you feel?

Share your thoughts with me HERE.