Majestic Water Buffalo – Erin, Ontario
Karen Mansfield and her family have been raising water buffalo for meat on their small family farm in Erin, Ontario since 2015. Caring for the animals themselves, the family believes in employing sustainable farming practices to produce this unique red meat alternative for people who are looking for something a little healthier.
Often confused with Bison, the Water Buffalo is a large bovid originating in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and China. Today it is also found in Europe, Australia, North America, South America and some African countries. While building on her passion for Water Buffalo, Karen has done some research into the origins of both the Bison and the Water Buffalo and finds it interesting that Bison are actually a relative of cattle and do crossbreed with cattle to produce Beefalo while Water Buffalo more closely resemble cattle in appearance yet they are not related and do not crossbreed.
Water Buffalo produce a meat that is lower in fat, calories and cholesterol than beef and is more easily digestible all while offering a mild flavour…. similar to beef, yet sweeter. Over the years, Karen has found that many customers have been referred to her by Naturopaths when they cannot eat typical red meats or when their doctors have told them to cut back on cholesterol or fat but they are not willing to give up red meat. From steaks to ground and many things in between, Majestic Water Buffalo is always able to offer a quality red meat alternative for any diet.
Joining the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market community in January 2020, Majestic Water Buffalo is a true farm to table operation. Visitors to the Market can meet the farmer that raised the animals and be confident in the product they are buying. Karen loves to talk about her farming operation and is always willing to answer questions about the benefits of Water Buffalo meat.
Karen and this locally grown, artisan meat can be found in the third row of the Market Building each and every Market day and we would encourage everyone to stop in and try something new!
