Blog for the New Earth Farm CSA in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
"Organic", "Cage-Free" and Other Labels
Today's Grist includes a brief article on certifcations other than "organic". Indeed, if you're like me, you'll look at this picture and wonder if these "cage-free" hens are much better off than their caged counterparts.
I cannot believe that the chickens in that picture are healthy or happy, or that their eggs are so much better. They appear crazed and full of anxiety. I don't know about you, but I like the fact that our chickens actually look happy. They run, play, fly, talk, coo, and generally have a lively communal life. Of course, I am thoroughly spoiled with chickens on our own property. Maybe Wolfgang Puck and the guys at Ben and Jerry's could have their own flocks and build better habitat for them with their millions of dollars???
"CSA" stands for "community supported agriculture". Members of the community pay at the start of the season for a share of the produce of a local farm. In our case, the season runs for 20 weeks, and most members come to the farm itself to pick up their share each week.
I cannot believe that the chickens in that picture are healthy or happy, or that their eggs are so much better. They appear crazed and full of anxiety. I don't know about you, but I like the fact that our chickens actually look happy. They run, play, fly, talk, coo, and generally have a lively communal life. Of course, I am thoroughly spoiled with chickens on our own property. Maybe Wolfgang Puck and the guys at Ben and Jerry's could have their own flocks and build better habitat for them with their millions of dollars???
ReplyDeleteKathleen Fogarty