The commercial feedlot was run to maximize cattle gains, optimize pen space, and keep cattle alive and performing well by using an aggressive antibiotic program. It was a daily exercise in crisis management! In 2006 they started Timber Ridge Cattle Company and devoted a significant proportion of the operation to the production of a more healthy beef product both in terms of the cattle and the meat
. Published studies at that time by KSU showed significant improvement in herd health and an increase in the Omega'3 fatty acids in the beef muscle by feeding flax-seed in the ration. We began implementing these feeding practices along with a strict no hormone, antibiotic on an as-needed basis, and no feed additive(ionophores) policy. The results have been encouraging. ISU testing of our first flax-fed beef showed a 300% increase in Omega 3's and a 5 - 1 Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio. More recently, improved flax grinding processes have resulted in a 5X higher Omega 3 level (50 mg/1.25oz serving) and a 3-1 Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio. We continue to refine our flax supplement to make more of the flax seed's alpha linolenic acid available to the cattle's digestive system. We feel as though our pasture raised flax-fed beef program has turned us 180 degrees from the old commercial feedlot days. As word spreads and demand increases, we have transitioned our entire operation to these "healthy beef" practices. In late 2019, Brian Deemer, a longtime employee & friend of the Woltz family, and Kim Jackson, employee & friend of Pete & Cindy’s, purchased Timber Ridge Cattle Company & Country Market & continue to adjust & maintain the quality of practices to provide our healthy, flavorful, popular products. We chose the smoked meat process to deliver our high omega 3 beef to the consumer because of its use of low heat. High heat will convert healthy fats into unhealthy trans-fats. Currently available in 10 delicious snack stick flavors, 3 summer sausages, & 4 jerky varieties, our products are being shipped around the world.
