Category: Farming practices

Since 2018, the preventive use of Category I and II antibiotics has been eliminated in the Canadian chicken sector, a significant step in the industry's responsible antimicrobial use strategy. This progressive approach aims to clarify the common question: are Canadian chickens fed antibiotics?.

According to the Organic Trade Association, organic foods consistently have significantly lower levels of pesticide residues than their conventional counterparts, though they are not always entirely pesticide-free. While organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals, it permits the use of naturally derived pesticides under strict regulations. This difference in farming methods leads to lower—but not zero—pesticide residue on organic produce.

The global market for organic chicken, which is inherently non-GMO, is projected to reach over $9 billion by 2030, reflecting a rising consumer interest in cleaner food production. This growing demand begs the question: is non-GMO chicken better for your health, animal welfare, or the environment?

For many consumers, the term “vegetarian fed” suggests an image of animals grazing happily on fields, but the reality is more complex. In most commercial farming operations, a vegetarian diet is composed largely of grains like corn and soybeans, meaning that yes, vegetarian fed animals are almost always grain fed.

According to the 2025 World Dairy Expo, Prairie Farms and Hiland won 55 awards, underscoring a consistent commitment to excellence. This raises a question for many consumers: beyond the accolades, why is Prairie Farm milk so good? The answer lies in a comprehensive approach that prioritizes animal welfare, farmer ownership, and an unwavering dedication to freshness.

Organic foods are certified as being produced through specific methods that prohibit the use of many standard farming practices. Understanding what is not allowed in organic food provides clarity on the strict regulations behind the label, governing everything from crop cultivation to animal husbandry and food processing.

According to the USDA, the key distinction between organic whole milk and normal whole milk lies in the farming practices used to produce it. While both are highly nutritious, organic milk comes from cows raised under specific federal regulations that prohibit synthetic hormones and certain pesticides.

According to the USDA, less than 3% of shell eggs in the US are pasteurized, meaning the term "free-range" does not guarantee a heat-treated egg. The key difference lies in the hen's living environment versus the egg's processing, a crucial distinction for food safety.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), tests have detected pesticide residues on a significant portion of conventionally grown potatoes. This raises a critical question for many consumers: do potatoes have glyphosate, and what does this mean for food safety and dietary choices?

A 2021 study found that organic raspberries can contain higher levels of beneficial phenolic compounds, which act as antioxidants, compared to their conventional counterparts. Beyond just the price, this raises the question: what is the difference between organic and non-organic raspberries?