The Benefits of Choosing Pasture Raised Chicken: A Guide to Understanding the Differences Between Pasture Raised and Industrial Chicken
The Benefits of Choosing Pasture Raised Chicken for Your Health and the Environment


Making Informed Decisions: Which Chicken is Right for You?
There are several key differences between pasture raised chicken and industrial chicken found in grocery stores:- Diet: Pasture raised chickens are allowed to roam freely outdoors and eat a natural diet of grass, insects, and other plants. In contrast, industrial chickens are typically confined to small spaces and fed a diet of grain and other processed foods.
- Antibiotic use: Industrial chickens are often given antibiotics to prevent disease and promote growth, which can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Pasture raised chickens, on the other hand, are less likely to need antibiotics because they are healthier and have a more natural diet.
- Hormone use: Hormones are not allowed in chicken production in the United States, so both pasture raised and industrial chickens are hormone-free.
- Environmental impact: Pasture raised chickens are typically raised on small farms and have a positive, regenerative environmental impact vs. industrial chickens, which are often raised in large, concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs).
- Taste and texture: Pasture raised chicken breasts tend to be leaner and have a more intense flavor than industrial chicken breasts, which can be fattier and less flavorful. However, taste and texture can vary depending on the specific breed of chicken, how it was raised, and how it was cooked.
How to Buy Pasture Raised Chicken from a Local Farm Online
The differences between pasture raised and industrial chicken are significant, both in terms of animal welfare and environmental impact. While industrial chicken may be cheaper and more readily available in grocery stores, pasture raised chicken offers a range of benefits, including a more natural diet, better living conditions, and a lower environmental footprint. By choosing to buy pasture raised chicken from a local farm online, you are not only supporting sustainable and ethical agriculture practices but also ensuring that you are consuming high-quality, healthy, and delicious chicken. So, the next time you're in the market for chicken, consider purchasing pasture raised chicken from a local farm like Tyner Pond Farm, and make a positive difference for yourself, the animals and the environment.
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