Tag: nutrition

Organic Farm Directory of U.S., Canadian and International Farms

A directory of more than 1,400 farms raising pasture-based meats, including free-range chicken.

Getting Wild Nutrition From Modern Food

Eatwild was founded by Jo Robinson in 2001 to promote the benefits—to consumers, farmers, animals, and the planet—of choosing meat, eggs, and dairy products from 100% grass-fed cows, sheep, goats, and deer (“ruminant” animals), or pigs and poultry (“non-ruminants”) raised on pasture rather than in confinement.
Eatwild.com is now the #1 clearinghouse for information about pasture-based farming and features a state-by-state (plus Canada) directory of local farmers who meet Eatwild’s criteria and sell their products directly to consumers. Many can also ship or deliver their products to you.

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Perosis Disease in Chickens

Cause: Perosis is a nutritional deficiency of choline, manganese, and/or B vitamins (such as niacin, biotin, and folic acid).

Thankfully, nutritional deficiencies can be avoided by making sure your flock has free-choice access to complete, nutritionally-balanced feed. Chicken scratch or kitchen scraps alone are not considered a balanced diet.

Perosis disease, also known as slipped tendon or chondrodystrophy, is a condition that affects the skeletal development of chickens, specifically their legs. It is a metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in manganese, which is an essential trace mineral required for normal bone and cartilage development.
In chickens, Perosis disease typically affects young, rapidly growing birds between the ages of 2 to 8 weeks, which are in the critical stage of skeletal development. It is commonly seen in broiler chickens, which are raised for meat production, but can also occur in other types of chickens such as layers or breeders.
The main symptom of Perosis disease is the deformation and weakening of the leg joints, especially the hock joint (the equivalent of the ankle joint in humans). The tendons that hold the joint in place become stretched or slip out of their normal position, causing the affected bird to have difficulty standing or walking. The legs may appear twisted or bent, and the affected chickens often have an abnormal gait or may be unable to walk at all.
Perosis disease is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Diets deficient in manganese, or imbalanced ratios of other nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, can contribute to the development of Perosis disease.
Prevention and treatment of Perosis disease involve addressing the underlying nutritional deficiencies. This may include providing a balanced diet that meets the specific nutrient requirements of chickens, including adequate levels of manganese, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. Nutritional supplements or additives may be added to the feed to correct any deficiencies.
If Perosis disease is diagnosed in a chicken, early intervention is crucial. Treatment may involve providing supportive care, such as splinting or bracing the affected legs, to help the bird maintain mobility. In severe cases, affected chickens may need to be euthanized to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Good nutrition, proper management practices, and early intervention can help reduce the incidence and severity of Perosis disease in poultry flocks.

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Farm Fresh Eggs Better Than Store Bought, Here’s Why

Farm-fresh eggs are often considered to be of higher value compared to store-bought eggs due to a variety of factors.

Nutritional value: Farm-fresh eggs are often considered to be more nutritious than store-bought eggs. This is because hens raised on small farms are typically allowed to roam outside and eat a more varied diet than factory-farmed chickens. As a result, their eggs tend to be richer in nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene.
Taste: Many people also believe that farm-fresh eggs taste better than store-bought eggs. This is because the yolks tend to be richer in color and flavor, and the whites tend to be firmer and creamier. Additionally, since farm-fresh eggs are often fresher than store-bought eggs, they may have a better texture and flavor.
Sustainability: Choosing farm-fresh eggs can also be a more sustainable choice. Small-scale farmers often raise their hens in a more humane and environmentally-friendly way, and buying eggs directly from farmers can help support local agriculture.
Safety: While all eggs are required to be inspected for safety, farm-fresh eggs may be perceived as being safer since they are often sold directly to consumers by the farmers who raised the hens. This can reduce the risk of contamination or food-borne illnesses that can occur during transportation and storage.
Note:
Farm-fresh eggs can be a great choice for people who prioritize nutrition, taste, sustainability, and food safety. However, it’s important to note that not all farm-raised eggs are created equal, and it’s important to do your research to find a trusted source for your eggs. Or, maybe consider having your own backyard flock, just be sure to check your local laws on keeping poultry before you join the chicken-keeping craze.

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