Protocols
No Hormones or Steroids
Hormones or steroids never administered to animals. (The FDA does not allow the use of hormones in the production of pork or poultry.)
Never Fed Drugs or Antibiotics
Our natural production practices eliminate the need for sub-therapeutic (daily fed low-level dose) medications that are commonly used in confinement production systems. However, in certain cases to prevent animals from death or suffering we do allow for limited use of therapeutic (spot treatment) medication. In such cases, the prescribed withdrawal period is doubled before animals are ever harvested. We feel that this exception is only practical to ensure wise stewardship practices and ethical treatment of our livestock.
GMO-free
Animals raised without feeding genetically modified organisms such as GMO corn or GMO soybeans.
Pasture Raised
As the seasons allow, animals are raised in the open pasture or field.
Winter Housed
To raise our high-quality meat, animals are seasonally accommodated during winter.
Grass Fed (No Grain Ever)
100% of the diet of grass-fed* animals consists of freshly grazed pasture and stored grasses (hay or grass silage) their entire life. Free-choice minerals supplementations may also be given as needed.
*As of the end of 2019, the USDA defines Grass Fed as animals that eat only grasses, even during their finishing stages.
Grass Raised/ Grain Finished
Animals that were raised primarily on the grass in pastures & open fields and then finished on grains.
Certified Organic
Certified Organic through the USDA.
Gluten-Free Ingredients
Items whose ingredients are all certified gluten-free. However, these products may be produced in a kitchen that also produces wheat products. Since we care about your health, if you have Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, gluten intolerance, or any gluten sensitivity, please consult with your doctor & speak with the Artisan Producer directly if you have questions.