Pureland Farms' Commitment to Authentic Pasture-Raising

When you walk into a grocery store and head to the poultry section, you’re often faced with a variety of choices: conventional chicken, organic chicken, free-range chicken, and sometimes, pasture-raised chicken. But what do these labels really mean, and how do they impact your health and nutrition? Let’s delve into the significant differences between TRUE pasture-raised chicken and the conventional chicken you typically find in grocery stores, and what sets Pureland Farms apart.

Understanding Pasture-Raised Chicken

True Pasture-Raising at Pureland Farm: Our chickens live in a mobile shelter known as a chicken tractor, which is moved daily. This means our birds have constant access to fresh grass, insects, and other natural food sources—a true "salad bar" for chickens. This practice not only enhances their diet but also ensures they are moved off their manure, reducing the risk of disease and promoting cleaner living conditions.

Nutritional Superiority: The diverse diet available to our chickens results in meat that is nutritionally superior. Compared to conventional chicken, our pasture-raised poultry has higher levels of beneficial fats, such as Omega 3s, and a better Omega 6:3 ratio. Additionally, our chickens' meat contains higher amounts of iron, Vitamin E, and antioxidants, contributing to better overall health for our customers.

The Marketing Myth of "Pasture-Raised"

While many labels claim "pasture-raised," the reality can be quite different:

Confined with Outdoor Access: In many cases, "pasture-raised" chickens spend most of their lives in large, confined houses with limited outdoor access. While they may technically have the option to go outside, the conditions often do not encourage this behavior, and the outdoor area can be small and not truly representative of a pasture environment.

Limited Foraging Opportunities: These chickens typically do not have the opportunity to forage naturally on grass and insects, as our chickens do. Their diet remains primarily grain-based, lacking the nutritional diversity that comes from genuine pasture-raising.

Marketing Tactics: Unfortunately, the term "pasture-raised" can sometimes be used more as a marketing tactic than a true reflection of the chickens' living conditions. This can mislead consumers who are looking for healthier and more ethically raised poultry.

 Nutritional Benefits of Pureland Farms' Pasture-Raised Chicken

1. Healthier Fats: Our chickens consume a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation, promote heart health, and improve cholesterol levels. In contrast, conventional chickens fed primarily on grains have higher levels of Omega 6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation and other health issues.

2. Balanced Omega 6:3 Ratio: The ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is crucial for maintaining health. Pasture-raised chickens tend to have a lower Omega 6:3 ratio, which helps reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic conditions. Conventional chickens, with their grain-heavy diets, often have a much higher Omega 6:3 ratio.

3. Higher Nutrient Density: Our pasture-raised chickens boast higher levels of essential nutrients. They have increased amounts of iron, Vitamin E, and Vitamin D. Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, while Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption and bone health. Conventional chickens, lacking a varied diet, typically do not match these nutrient levels.

4. Antioxidants: The natural foraging diet of our chickens results in meat that is richer in antioxidants, such as Vitamin E. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, providing further health benefits.

The Reality Of Grocery Store Chicken

Grocery store chicken, especially the cheaper, conventionally raised variety, often comes from birds raised in confined environments with limited access to the outdoors. These chickens are usually fed a diet primarily consisting of grains like corn and soy, which lacks the nutritional diversity found in the natural diet of pasture-raised birds.

1. Artificial Additives: Conventional chickens are often given antibiotics and other additives to promote growth and prevent disease in crowded living conditions. This practice can contribute to antibiotic resistance and other health concerns in humans.

2. Lower Nutritional Value: Due to their grain-heavy diet and lack of natural foraging, conventionally raised chickens typically have lower levels of Omega 3 fatty acids, higher Omega 6:3 ratios, and fewer antioxidants. This can negatively impact the nutritional value of the meat and its health benefits.

3. Ethical Concerns: The confined and unnatural living conditions of conventionally raised chickens raise significant animal welfare issues. In contrast, pasture-raised chickens live in environments that allow for natural behaviors and better overall well-being.

Why Pureland Farms' True Pasture-Raised Chicken Matters

Authentic Practices: At Pureland Farms, we go beyond the label to ensure our chickens are genuinely pasture-raised. Our daily rotation system not only improves the chickens' diet but also enhances the quality of the soil and promotes sustainable farming practices.

Ethical and Sustainable: By providing our chickens with a natural environment and a diverse diet, we are committed to the ethical treatment of our animals. Our practices support the well-being of our birds, contribute to healthier meat, and promote environmental sustainability.

Superior Quality: The result of our authentic pasture-raising practices is a superior product that you can taste and feel good about. Our chickens provide higher nutritional value, better flavor, and peace of mind knowing they were raised humanely.

When you choose Pureland Farms, you're not just buying chicken; you're investing in a product that is genuinely pasture-raised, ethically produced, and nutritionally superior. Make the switch to our true pasture-raised chicken and experience the difference in quality and health benefits. Your body—and your conscience—will thank you.

By understanding the differences between TRUE pasture-raised chicken and conventional grocery store chicken, you can make more informed decisions about the food you eat and its impact on your health. At Pureland Farms, we are proud to offer pasture-raised poultry that stands out in both quality and nutrition. Join us in embracing a healthier, more sustainable way of eating.