PATON – The flock of laying hens at Price Family Farms south of Paton is now certified as Animal Welfare Approved. This certification and food label lets consumers know these animals are raised in accordance with the highest animal welfare standards in the U.S. and Canada, using sustainable agriculture methods on an independent family farm.
Like other AWA farmers across the country, Linn and Chuck Price recognize the growing consumer interest in how animals are raised on farms. Certified AWA laying hens at Price Family Farms enjoy full run of the farm’s 5 acres, where they can forage for food and express their natural behaviors, like running, pecking, dust bathing, and scratching for grubs and seeds. The hens also help to control insect pests and naturally fertilize the soil in the organic garden. The pasture-raised eggs are sold to the local community directly from the farm, as well as at local farmers’ markets.
The Prices recognize the multifaceted benefits of pasture-based management for their hens, according to an AWA press release. In addition to their nourishment from the pasture, the Prices supplement their hens’ diet with an organic and soy-free food: “We have always wanted the best food for our family,” explains Linn Price. “Why shouldn’t it be the same for our hens?” Research shows that pasture-based management is not only better for animal welfare, but results in eggs with more beta carotene and higher levels of beneficial conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-3 fatty acids when compared to conventional eggs.
Price Family Farms chose to become Certified AWA to show that pasture-based management and high welfare practices were not only possible, but profitable: “We want to show others that sustainable agriculture is achievable-and that it’s achievable while utilizing high-welfare practices and providing for our family,” says Linn Price.
AWA program director Andrew Gunther says, “The accountability and integrity offered by Animal Welfare Approved farmers like Linn and Charles are unmatched in food production. We’re glad to have Price Family Farms in the AWA family.”
Certified AWA eggs from Price Family Farms are available direct from the farm, and (seasonally) at Greene County farmer’s market. For more information, visit www.greeneeggs.com
