Farm to Table: Why Free-run Chicken Tastes Better

The farm-to-table movement continues to gain traction across Alberta, with consumers showing increased interest in how their food is raised and sourced. At Homeland Colony Farming Co., the focus remains on ethical production methods, including the raising of free-run chicken. As awareness grows around food quality and sustainable farming, many are asking why free-run poultry stands out in both taste and nutritional value. 

What Are Free-run Chickens?

Free-run chickens are raised in open indoor environments where they can move freely, unlike caged birds. They engage in natural behaviours like walking and scratching, which support healthier development. While they don’t have outdoor access like free-range birds, they are not confined to cages.

This method meets Canadian animal welfare standards and supports ethical, local, and sustainable food production. In Grande Prairie, demand for free-run chicken is growing among consumers who value animal welfare and food quality.

Why Does It Taste Better?

The improved taste of free-run chicken is linked to better living conditions and a natural diet. Physical activity encourages healthy muscle development, resulting in firmer texture and richer flavour.

These chickens also grow at a more natural pace, which helps the meat retain moisture. Raised on feed free from antibiotics and growth hormones, the chiken meat is tender, flavourful, and a favourite among both households and professional chefs

Taste and Texture

Texture and flavour are key qualities in poultry. In the case of free-run chicken, these birds develop stronger muscle tone due to their increased mobility. This has several outcomes:

• Firmer texture: Natural movement contributes to muscle fibre density, creating a meat texture that holds its shape during cooking.

• Juiciness and tenderness: Better-developed muscle fibres retain moisture more effectively, resulting in tender cuts that don’t dry out easily.

• Richer flavour: A varied, natural diet and stress-reduced environment contribute to fuller taste without artificial additives.

These traits are consistently noted by both culinary professionals and consumers choosing free-run chicken in Grande Prairie.

Healthier Protein Choice

In addition to its taste and texture, free-run chicken offers several nutritional advantages:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Free-run chickens are considered beneficial for cardiovascular and brain health. Due to their diet and rearing practices, free-run poultry often shows higher omega-3 content.

• Antibiotic-free and hormone-free: Regulations in Canada prohibit hormone use in chicken, but free-run operations are often stricter in avoiding preventive antibiotics as well.

• Clean protein source: The combination of ethical rearing and natural feed creates a final product that supports health-conscious food choices.

Supporting Ethical Farming and Better Flavour Through Free-run Chicken

At Homeland Colony Farming Co., we aim to supply locally raised free-run chicken in Grande Prairie that reflects our values of sustainability, health, and food transparency. Our poultry products are available through local locations and direct online ordering.

We strive to meet the expectations of families and businesses seeking ethical, traceable, and high-quality poultry. For product availability and farm details, contact us or visit our local locations Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Peace River, High Prairie, Slave Lake and Homeland Colony (Falher, AB).