There is a growing trend in the United States where family farms and foods that created the foundation for this great country are slowly being lost.  Many factors over the years have contributed to this demise including but not limited to population growth, advances of agricultural science, advances in industry and the struggle to feed the world.  However with that being said, a new age is upon us and change is happening with consumer awareness and the  growing concern of global warming, ‘green’ thinking and the SLOW Food Movement happening globally.

Volpi Foods’ philosophies along with family traditions and family values have a similar vision of the Heritage Farm and Slow Food USA.  A new found focus is taking root to promote small family farms, sustainable / traceable foods, ‘Certified Humane Raised & Handled’ practices and a commitment to genetic diversity.

In an effort to uphold these ideals, Volpi Foods has been working for the past 4 years with Heritage Farm, a family farm cooperative that places its focus on the quality, care and diversity of the pigs being raised.  The farms from which Volpi purchases a steadily increasing amount of pork are located in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois and Kansas.  A strong focus is taken to ensure the animals are antibiotic free and consumers are educated as to where their food comes from and how it was raised.

The strict requirements established by the family farm cooperatives requires for the farms to be occupied by family members.  In addition, these farms are working under ‘Certified Humane Raised & Handled’ guidelines to ensure best possible conditions for the pigs.  Volpi Foods has coordinated with other Italian meat and sausage producers to ensure 100% utilization of the pig and in doing so made this program very successful and a benefit to their business.

Heritage Farms continuously strives for ethical and humane treatment for all of the foods they raise, transport and process.  Each step along the way is closely monitored starting from the farm where the animals are free to roam outdoors and feed a natural diet.  The processing facilities are closely observed to ensure the animals do not suffer at any point during the process and traceability for each and every step.

Volpi Foods does participate in a ‘hands-on’ monitoring of the farms and producers from which their pigs are raised and purchased.  A minimum of once per year random inspection takes place at each location to observe the step by step process and handling techniques of the pigs.

Today we begin to see that the American consumer is consciously aware of the impact being made on the planet and the importance of instuting change.  It has been only 4 years in the making, however it is type of determination and dedication that allows Volpi Foods to stand out amongst its peers.