Free range, also referred to as pastured poultry, is a method of raising turkeys, chickens and other birds in a pasture rather than keeping them inside a closed in area such as a coop. This method of raising these animals features many benefits. To begin with, many feel that it is by far more humane. It is also a way to ensure a higher quality of food reaches your table that has an increase in both taste and nutritional value.
Shelter is still essential for these birds to ensure they are protected from poor weather and from predators. Some of the most commonly used shelters are moveable. These portable shelters are designed with no floor so that the birds can still have access to insects and to fresh grass. They are moved one or two times daily to ensure the birds always have a fresh area.
Many types of poultry birds, with the exception of geese, cannot live on only what they find in the pasture. For this reason many farmers will find it necessary to also feed them grains. Many of these farmers will not use any type of animal proteins or antibiotics in the grain but will choose to use probiotics to ensure optimal health of the birds.
Poultry is not the only ones that will benefit from this method of farming. The farmer also benefits in the reduction of overall costs. They will not need to spend as much money on feed and will not have to spread as much fertilizer, saving them time in the long run. This method will allow the farmer to take full advantage of the animals' ability to spread its own manure and to feed itself.
Hens that have been pasture raised will produce eggs that are healthier than factory hens. These eggs can contain as much as 20 times more omega-3 fatty acids. They are also know to have 10 percent less fat, over 30 percent less cholesterol and as much as 40 percent more vitamin A than factory produced eggs.
Additionally the consumer can expect that the meat they are buying is also healthier. It will be free from any hormones and antibiotics. It is run though a cleaner process when it is being packaged, making the meat overall healthier. It also contains higher levels of vitamins E and C along with a higher content of omega-3 fatty acids. As an added bonus, many find this method produces a more flavorful meat.
The consumer may be surprised at the different appearance and the different flavor that this food has. The yolks of the eggs will most likely be a vibrant orange color instead of the yellow most people are accustomed to seeing and the meat will be less fatty. Slow cooking is a must to help keep the meat moist and full of flavor.
When you make the decision to purchase pastured poultry you are helping to keep a small farmer in business. You are also making a healthier choice for your family. Although these animals are only slaughtered seasonally and the meat is not usually available year round, it can be bought in bulk and stored until the following season when you can buy more.
Shelter is still essential for these birds to ensure they are protected from poor weather and from predators. Some of the most commonly used shelters are moveable. These portable shelters are designed with no floor so that the birds can still have access to insects and to fresh grass. They are moved one or two times daily to ensure the birds always have a fresh area.
Many types of poultry birds, with the exception of geese, cannot live on only what they find in the pasture. For this reason many farmers will find it necessary to also feed them grains. Many of these farmers will not use any type of animal proteins or antibiotics in the grain but will choose to use probiotics to ensure optimal health of the birds.
Poultry is not the only ones that will benefit from this method of farming. The farmer also benefits in the reduction of overall costs. They will not need to spend as much money on feed and will not have to spread as much fertilizer, saving them time in the long run. This method will allow the farmer to take full advantage of the animals' ability to spread its own manure and to feed itself.
Hens that have been pasture raised will produce eggs that are healthier than factory hens. These eggs can contain as much as 20 times more omega-3 fatty acids. They are also know to have 10 percent less fat, over 30 percent less cholesterol and as much as 40 percent more vitamin A than factory produced eggs.
Additionally the consumer can expect that the meat they are buying is also healthier. It will be free from any hormones and antibiotics. It is run though a cleaner process when it is being packaged, making the meat overall healthier. It also contains higher levels of vitamins E and C along with a higher content of omega-3 fatty acids. As an added bonus, many find this method produces a more flavorful meat.
The consumer may be surprised at the different appearance and the different flavor that this food has. The yolks of the eggs will most likely be a vibrant orange color instead of the yellow most people are accustomed to seeing and the meat will be less fatty. Slow cooking is a must to help keep the meat moist and full of flavor.
When you make the decision to purchase pastured poultry you are helping to keep a small farmer in business. You are also making a healthier choice for your family. Although these animals are only slaughtered seasonally and the meat is not usually available year round, it can be bought in bulk and stored until the following season when you can buy more.
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