There are a lot of designations/certifications, and claims out there now in regards to raising livestock… Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Humane, Certified Organic, Grass Fed are some. With all the labeling, classifications, designations out there, it can get confusing!

Many people are unaware that Certified Organic incorporates the same animal welfare standards as other designations. We, as organic farmers, must also accommodate the health and natural behavior of our animals year round.  Our animals are required to have access to the outside year round (except under certain special conditions , e.g. inclement weather). They must also have access to shelter, and live as they would naturally within the herd with plenty of space to move around and kick up their heels!

Organic production relies on preventative measures. We strive to keep our animals healthy by giving them plenty of fresh air and room to roam, along with free choice minerals, quality pasture and hay, and clean water. If  an animal falls ill despite our best organic measures, we must treat that animal in whatever way is necessary to restore its health, even if that means using non-organic practices.  Any animal treated outside of organic standards will be taken out of organic production and will never be sold as organic.

As you see, humane handling and animal welfare are part and parcel of being certified organic. It does does not always mean the animals are grass fed/pastured, and finished on grass, however. We believe an animal raised on grass (and hay) alone produces a healthier animal and thus, healthier meat. All of our animals enjoy grass and hay from chemical free, certified organic fields and they drink the same well water as we do. Grass based diets for ruminants makes their rumen (first stomach) less acidic, increasing beneficial microorganisms, which in turn helps to ferment their high fiber diet.

We are proud to say we use the Royal Butcher Abattoir to process our meats. Royal Larocque has been acknowledged for his facility’s humane handling standards. The Randolph Herald published a great story about it a few years back. https://www.ourherald.com/articles/humane-slaughter-practiced-here/