We want to put Good Food into our Growing Kids’ Bodies

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March 24, 2021

The McEllroy Family

Today I’d like to introduce you to the McEllroy family who loves spending family time together by hiking, camping, cooking, playing games, traveling (and taking educational field trips!) :)

Karis McEllroy kindly took time to share about her family and the priority she and her husband place on helping their kids grow “the way God intended.”

Tell us about you and your lovely family.

We are a family of 7 that loves Jesus, good food, and camping. We moved to the Beavercreek area three years ago to be nearer to family and have fallen in love with our neighborhood and church. Although we have homeschooled off and on for the past 7 years, this year's pandemic gave us the opportunity to homeschool all four school-aged children again and experience some amazing adventures in the process. One of our favorites was a trip out west to see Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and the Badlands in our little fiberglass camper that we have named Amelia.

What is your motivation in ordering from a locally-owned Regenerative Farm?

Because we believe so much in the importance of supporting small businesses, we try to buy locally as much as we can. But even more importantly, research has shown how unhealthy unconventionally raised meat actually is, let alone the ethics of raising animals in such horrible conditions. We want to put good food into our growing kids' bodies (and ours) to help them grow the way God intended!

You're really good at making multiple meals from a single meat source. Can you share how you do that?

This I learned from my mother! We didn't have a lot of money growing up, so meat had to be stretched. We rarely have big chunks of meat for meals such as steaks or chicken breasts. Instead we'll cut up a few steaks for fajitas. Or we'll roast a chicken, shred up the meat, and use it for multiple meals such as chicken quesadillas, chicken and noodle soup, or salad toppings. If you think of meat as a garnish more than a main entree, it's surprising how long you can make a little bit last!

What are your favorite items you like to order from The Maker’s Meadow?

Oh that's a hard one! I always get ground beef and whole chickens, because both are so easy to use in recipes. We absolutely LOVE their turkeys for Thanksgiving, and my lamb-loving husband can't get enough of their various lamb products.

Tell us about your experience of visiting The Maker's Meadow farm.

It was definitely our favorite field trip yet! John was so kind to give us a very thorough tour of the farm, both on foot so the kids could pet the various animals, and also via hayride. Personally the hayride was my favorite, as I learned so much about how plants grow and then how that affects the animals eating it. My mom happened to come along and actually spent a few hours with Mrs. Filbrun in the kitchen, learning some of her cooking techniques.

Anything else that you haven't mentioned above that you would like to share?

Maker's Meadow's customer service is unlike any other! We have been so impressed with their quick response to emails and phone calls, as well as their attention to detail. Their meat is so delicious, and you can tell they have put so much thought and effort into their farm practices. It truly is inspiring!

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Thank you so much Karis for your kind words - especially about our customer service.

I want to make sure we deliver big on taking care of all of our customers’ orders. In fact, never hesitate to call or email if you have any questions regarding a current or future order. My team and I always strive to make things right!

The Maker's Meadow

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making multiple meals

Ohio grassfed farm

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Good Food

Have You Ever Wondered What Grass-Fed Cows Eat in the Winter?

Where do grass-fed cows get their food when grass is no longer growing fast? We break down how we plan for and tackle this issue when winter is upon us!

Why the Bills family supports our farm

Andrew and Allison Bills were gracious enough to host members of our team in their beautiful home and tell us why they like and support The Maker's Meadow.

Health Benefits of Pasture-Raised Turkeys

When it comes to selecting the healthiest and most sustainable sources of poultry, pasture-raised turkeys offer numerous advantages over their industrially farmed counterparts. Not only do pasture-raised turkeys enjoy a better quality of life, but they also provide a wealth of health benefits for consumers. Let's explore how our turkeys at The Maker's Meadow differ from industrially raised birds and why they are worth considering for your next meal. Higher Nutrient Density One of the standout differences between pasture-raised and industrially farmed turkeys is the nutrient profile. Pasture-raised turkeys, allowed to roam freely and forage for natural foods like grasses, seeds, and insects, tend to have a more diverse diet. This varied diet translates to a healthier, more nutrient-dense meat. More Omega-3 & Less Omega-6: Studies have shown that pasture-raised turkeys contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to turkeys raised in confined, grain-fed environments. Omega-3s are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving brain function. Industrially raised turkeys often consume a diet rich in corn and soy, which can lead to an imbalance of omega-6 fatty acids. This imbalance is linked to higher inflammation in the body and can contribute to various health problems such as heart disease and arthritis. Pasture-raised turkeys, by contrast, have a healthier omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Higher Levels of Antioxidants and Vitamins: Free-ranging turkeys consume a more natural diet that results in higher levels of important antioxidants like vitamin E, which supports immune function and skin health, and beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A and supports vision and cellular growth. Lower in Harmful Additives Industrial turkey farming practices often include the use of antibiotics and growth promoters to boost production and prevent disease in overcrowded conditions. Over time, this practice has raised concerns about antibiotic resistance and its long-term effects on human health. No Antibiotic Residue: Pasture-raised turkeys are typically raised without antibiotics, allowing consumers to avoid unnecessary exposure to these drugs. This is particularly beneficial for those trying to reduce their intake of antibiotic-laden foods. No Hormones or Synthetic Additives: Pasture-raised birds generally aren’t given hormones or synthetic additives, making them a cleaner option compared to industrially raised turkeys. Improved Fat Profile and Leaner Meat Pasture-raised turkeys tend to be leaner due to their active lifestyles, foraging in fields and moving about naturally. This results in less fat compared to industrially raised turkeys, which are often kept in confined spaces and fed high-calorie, grain-based diets to promote rapid growth. Lean Protein Source: Pasture-raised turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for building muscle, maintaining metabolic health, and supporting various bodily functions. Healthier Fat Composition: The fat that pasture-raised turkeys do contain is generally healthier due to their active, natural lifestyle. Their fat is often richer in beneficial omega-3s and contains lower levels of unhealthy saturated fats, making pasture-raised turkey a better option for heart health. More Humane and Sustainable Practices Though the health benefits of pasture-raised turkeys are significant, it's also important to consider the ethical and environmental impacts. Pasture-raised turkeys typically live in environments where they have room to roam, access to fresh air, and a natural diet. This is a stark contrast to industrial farming, where turkeys are often confined to small spaces and raised in less humane conditions. No Factory Farming Practices: By supporting pasture-raised turkey farms, consumers can avoid supporting the industrial farming practices that contribute to environmental degradation, such as the overuse of pesticides, excessive water use, and pollution from concentrated animal feeding operations. Better Animal Welfare: Turkeys that are raised in pastures experience lower levels of stress and have healthier immune systems due to their more natural and humane living conditions. This often translates into healthier, less disease-prone birds that don’t require intensive antibiotic use. Enhanced Flavor & Freshness Beyond health and ethical considerations, pasture-raised turkeys also offer superior flavor. Because of their varied diet and natural lifestyle, the meat from pasture-raised turkeys is often described as richer, more complex, and with a better texture than that of industrially raised turkeys. This makes them a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike. Pasture-raised turkeys are also typically fresher for consumers because they are often sourced from local or small-scale farms like ours, which prioritize quality over mass production. These turkeys are usually processed in smaller batches, ensuring they are delivered more quickly and with less time spent in storage or transport. The shorter supply chain means the bird's natural flavors and textures are fully preserved. This freshness translates into better taste and higher nutritional value, giving consumers a superior product compared to turkeys that undergo long shipping times and extended storage in industrial settings. Choosing Better for Your Health and the Planet While pasture-raised turkeys may come at a slightly higher price than industrially farmed options, the health benefits they provide—from better nutrient content to the absence of harmful additives—are well worth the investment. By choosing pasture-raised turkeys, you're not only supporting your own health but also promoting more sustainable farming practices that are better for the environment and animal welfare. The long-term benefits of going pasture-raised and buying from us here at The Maker's Meadow far outweigh the cost differential of your average store-bought turkey. So if you still need a Thanksgiving Turkey, click here to order one!

We want to put Good Food into our Growing Kids’ Bodies

The McEllroy Family

More from the blog

Have You Ever Wondered What Grass-Fed Cows Eat in the Winter?

Why the Bills family supports our farm

Health Benefits of Pasture-Raised Turkeys

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