Posted By admin on November 11, 2009  |

Many of you have become aware of the writings of Michael Pollan and his warnings about the dangers to our food system from the lack of biodiversity in foodstocks. Modern food production favors the use of a few highly specialized breeds selected for maximum output in a controlled environment. In many categories, there are only one or two breeds of livestock being raised commercially. These animals are chosen for traits such as fast time to market, ability to be confined, and the ability to convert cheap feed to finished weight. More often than not, taste and flavor are not even considered.

Many traditional livestock breeds have lost popularity and are threatened with extinction. These traditional breeds are an essential part of the American agricultural inheritance. Not only do they evoke our past, they are also an important resource for our future. These are called heritage breeds.

There is an awakening among small farmers of the value of raising heritage animals. They are better suited to the workings of the small farm. They flourish on pasture, are easier to raise, and provide a quality product that reminds us of the way things used to taste.

At Farmers & Artisans, we encourage our farmers to raise heritage breeds. Many of them are already doing so and others will be making the move to heritage breeds in the coming months. For example, all Blossom Hill Farm pork is heritage breed. For more information visit the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (http://www NULL.albc-usa NULL.org) and Heritage Breeds Conservancy (http://www NULL.nehbc NULL.org).

Tags: ALBC, heritage, Pollan