In the mid-1990s, a group of visionary farmers — John Wood, Jim Leeser, Kenneth Suter, and Jim Crum — joined forces to form Grassland Beef, the company that would later become US Wellness Meats. Their mission was bold and heartfelt: to revive the fading legacy of the American family farm and bring to market a healthier, more sustainable selection of meats. At a time when industrial agriculture was rapidly reshaping the landscape, these farmers leaned into time-honored land stewardship practices, embracing rotational grazing, soil regeneration, and native forage planting. Their cattle thrived on this “salad bar” diet, and so did the land. Twenty-five years of managed rest period grazing has yielded the consistently higher soil organic matter readings according to a local soil testing service in Northeast Missouri.

 

The results were more than promising — they were groundbreaking. Independent lab tests revealed that their grass-fed, grass-finished beef contained significantly higher levels of essential nutrients compared to conventionally raised meat. Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), branch chain amino acids, and vital vitamins, the meat from Grassland Beef wasn’t just better for the environment — it was better for the body. This nutritional edge became a cornerstone of their identity and a rallying cry for health-conscious consumers across the country. After enjoying several cookouts with family and friends to sample their efforts, it was widely acknowledged that the flavor of these meats was exceptional and beyond what you could find in the grocery store meat case.

 

From its humble beginnings in Canton, Missouri, US Wellness Meats has grown into a thriving enterprise that still honors its roots. The company remains deeply embedded in its local community, employing skilled meat cutters, warehouse teams, shipping crews, customer service representatives, and marketing staff — all committed to delivering premium quality meats with integrity. Managing partner John Wood, a fifth-generation farmer, continues to lead with the same passion and purpose that sparked the company’s founding.

 

As US Wellness Meats celebrates its 25th anniversary, we reflect not only on the milestones but on the mission that has guided every step. This is more than a business — it’s a movement. A celebration of regenerative agriculture, family values, and the belief that food raised with care can nourish both people and planet. Here’s to the next 25 years of clean, green, and nutrient-rich meats — and to the farm families, patrons, community, and supporters who make it all possible. 

 

Enter to Win our 25th Anniversary Contest and you could win FREE STEAKS for 1-Year!

 

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