Once he settled on bison, Steiner, who had previously worked on a cattle farm, had to forget everything he knew about farming. Among other lessons Steiner learned early was that bison can't be transported in sheep trailers due to the risk of contracting a deadly disease. Bison are a fiercely loyal herd animal and need to be purchased in pairs. Steiner is banking on bison for the future because of the meat's health properties. According to the National Bison Association, buffalo meat contains half as many calories as beef, has 35 percent more protein, and is 25 percent lower in cholesterol.
Buffalo meat is also non-allergenic.
There's no fat, no marbling. And our bison have no shots, no hormones, just spring water and the hay they eat. As for the taste, well, like everything, it all depends on how you cook it. Stephanie Schryba is owner, manager and chef at the Townshend Dam Diner. Most people expect a really gamy taste, like venison, but that's not the case at all.