First, we are proud of the fact that our farms come in all sizes. We do indeed have small to midsized operations in the program (many selling direct from the farm, at farmers markets or via CSAs), but we also have many farms that are quite large and farms that cooperate in networks to jointly market their products. Several AWA networks of beef, pork and lamb producers turn quite a volume of product in restaurants and in a mixture of both regional and national retailers.

Second, while one might assume that AWA products are more expensive than those that are conventionally produced, this is not necessarily the case. We are currently conducting a survey comparing prices of AWA-certified grassfed beef to feedlot, grainfeed beef and have found so far that in the Northeast U.S., of the retailers and farms surveyed, primal cuts of AWA beef were in fact lower in price per pound than conventional grainfed beef.

I’m sure you agree that grassfed beef with its higher nutrient content is well worth purchasing. Research has shown time and again that meat from animals fed grass diets is higher in beta carotene (Vitamin A), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and Omega-3 fatty acids. All of these elements are believed to be crucial in reducing diseases like diabetes, cancer and high blood pressure.

We hope this has clarified a few key points about the Animal Welfare Approved program. Thank you again for your article.