We are busting some of the myths surrounding local, humane farming in the video above, produced by Steven Althardt. If you'd like to do further reading about the claims made in this video, check out our sources below:
"[Y]our decision to start supporting local agriculture... increases demand for humanely raised food, which puts pressure on big producers to improve their standards."
Here are the most recent instances of just that:
"A dollar spent at a local farm will be spent several more times in the area, which is a boost to your local economy."
"According to the USDA, 'free-range' only applies to poultry, and just means that the birds must have access to the outdoors."
The USDA's Food Safety & Inspection Service define "free-range" or "free-roaming" as thus: "Producers must demonstrate to the Agency that the poultry has been allowed access to the outside."
"Grass-fed cattle consume perennial plants, like grass, whose roots sequester carbon..."
In fact, an acre of well-managed pasture can sequester up to 1200 lb of carbon per year, more than cropland or grass lawns.
"... instead of grains, which must be grown, fertilized, harvested and transported."
The bulk of environmental burden is caused by growing feed for the cows, not the cows themselves.
"[C]onventional feed is unregulated and could otherwise include slaughterhouse by-products, feather meal, or processed animal feces."
.................................... You might also be interested in these other Ethical Farming Fund articles: Pros of Factory Farming: Are There Any?