IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Anchored Roots is not just a farm; it's a testament to our commitment to regenerative farming practices. We believe in working in harmony with nature to nurture the land and our animals. Our farm is more than just a source of farm-fresh eggs and pasture-raised chicken; it's a haven where sustainability, ethics, and quality converge. Regenerative farming goes beyond sustainable practices by actively replenishing and revitalizing the soil, promoting biodiversity, and improving the overall health of the ecosystem. At Anchored Roots, we strive to implement regenerative farming principles as closely as possible. By employing rotational grazing techniques, we ensure that our pastures are given ample time to recover and regenerate, fostering healthier soil and promoting the growth of diverse plant species. We prioritize the well-being of our animals by providing them with a natural environment where they can exhibit their instinctive behaviors. Our chickens roam freely on pasture, engaging in natural foraging, scratching, and social interactions. This not only enhances their overall health but also results in eggs and chicken that are exceptionally flavorful and nutritious. By choosing Anchored Roots, you are not only supporting a local, family-owned farm but also contributing to a more sustainable food system. We invite you to join us on this journey of regenerative farming and experience the difference in taste, quality, and environmental impact that comes with our farm-fresh eggs and pasture-raised chicken. Together, we can make a positive impact on our food system and our planet.

Our farm is located in the beautiful countryside of West Michigan, where our chickens enjoy open pastures and a natural environment.

Egg Layers - No, however we feed NON- GMO and they are out on pasture daily and free from antibiotics or hormones. Broilers/ Meat Chickens- While our products are not certified organic, we adhere to organic farming principles. Our chickens are raised on pasture and fed a non-GMO, organically sourced diet, free from antibiotics or hormones.

Our chickens are raised in a pasture-based system, allowing them to roam freely, forage on grass, insects, and worms, and bask in natural sunlight. This natural lifestyle enhances the quality and taste of our chicken.

Cage-free means the chickens are not confined to cages, but they may still be kept indoors. Free-range chickens have access to the outdoors, but the specifics of their outdoor access can vary. Pastured chickens, like ours, spend most of their time outdoors on pasture, enjoying a natural diet and lifestyle.

We appreciate your interest, but for biosecurity reasons, we do not offer farm visits to the general public. However, we occasionally host open farm events, appointments, which will be announced on our website and social media platforms.

At this time, we do not offer shipping services. Our products are currently available for local pickup or delivery within a specific radius. Check our website or contact us for more information on delivery options.

At Anchored Roots, the quality and safety of our products are of utmost importance to us. We have implemented rigorous practices to ensure that our farm-fresh eggs and pasture-raised chicken meet the highest standards. First and foremost, our chickens are raised in a clean and natural environment. They have access to spacious pastures where they can engage in natural behaviors and forage for their food. This healthy and stress-free lifestyle contributes to the overall well-being of the chickens, resulting in higher-quality eggs and chicken. We carefully select our feed to provide the best nutrition for our chickens. Our feed is sourced from trusted suppliers who prioritize quality ingredients and adhere to strict standards. We use non-GMO and organic feed whenever possible to ensure that our chickens receive a balanced diet free from harmful additives or pesticides. In terms of safety, we follow strict biosecurity protocols on our farm. This includes regular cleaning and sanitizing of coops, equipment, and facilities to prevent the spread of diseases. We also monitor the health of our chickens closely and promptly address any issues to maintain a healthy flock. When it comes to processing our chickens, we work with a trusted local butcher who shares our commitment to quality and safety. They adhere to strict food safety regulations and maintain a clean and sanitary environment during processing. This ensures that our chicken is handled and processed with care, maintaining its quality and reducing any potential risks. By prioritizing the well-being of our animals, implementing stringent safety measures, and maintaining transparency throughout our processes, we are able to deliver products of exceptional quality and safety to our customers. We take pride in providing you with the best farm-fresh eggs and pasture-raised chicken that you can trust and enjoy with confidence.

What sets Anchored Roots apart from other farms is our unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices and the well-being of our animals. We go above and beyond to ensure that our farming methods align with regenerative principles, prioritizing the health of the land, the animals, and the community we serve. One of the key aspects that distinguishes us is our dedication to regenerative agriculture. We understand the importance of nurturing and revitalizing the soil, which serves as the foundation of our farm. By practicing rotational grazing and incorporating diverse cover crops, we promote soil health, increase biodiversity, and sequester carbon. This approach not only improves the fertility and resilience of the land but also helps combat climate change. Our animals are at the heart of our farm, and we are committed to providing them with the best possible lives. Our pasture-raised chickens are given ample space to roam, forage, and engage in natural behaviors. They have access to fresh air, sunlight, and a diverse diet, resulting in healthier and happier chickens. We firmly believe that happy animals produce superior-quality eggs and chicken, and we strive to provide our customers with products that are second to none. Transparency and traceability are also fundamental values at Anchored Roots. We believe that our customers have the right to know where their food comes from and how it is produced. That's why we encourage open dialogue and invite our community to visit our farm, ask questions, and see firsthand how we operate. We are proud to provide a direct connection between the food on your plate and the farm it comes from. Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our farming practices. We actively seek ways to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize our environmental footprint. From implementing efficient water management systems to using eco-friendly packaging, we strive to make sustainable choices in every aspect of our operations. Ultimately, what sets Anchored Roots apart is our holistic approach to farming. We believe that by embracing regenerative practices, prioritizing animal welfare, fostering transparency, and promoting sustainability, we can make a positive impact on our community and the environment. When you choose Anchored Roots, you're not just getting exceptional products; you're supporting a vision for a healthier, more sustainable future.

No, never!

We don't put value in the term "organic" as we have found it to be an empty term so we have never paid to have our products labeled organic. What we like to say is that we are "beyond organic". The term organic started off with good intentions, but has since created a whole world of false advertising. This is why we encourage everyone to know what farm your food is coming from- even if it's not us.

Our chickens live 24/7 outside on pasture. That is not true for 99% of chickens in the USA, even "free-range" or "organic" chickens spend the vast majority of their lives indoors. We rotate our chickens onto fresh pasture daily. Rotational grazing completely eliminates the need for vaccinations and helps put manure where it belongs (in the fields, on the ground!) The feed is clean and our chicken is higher in all nutritional values vs a store bought chicken.

Washed eggs are eggs that have been cleaned and sanitized, removing any dirt, bacteria, and external contaminants from the eggshell. Unwashed eggs, on the other hand, are left in their natural state, with the protective bloom intact.

The practice of washing eggs varies among countries and is influenced by different regulations and standards. In the United States, eggs are required to be washed and sanitized before being sold in stores, while in some other countries, such as many European countries, washing is prohibited or restricted due to concerns about removing the protective bloom.

The bloom, also known as the cuticle, is a natural protective coating on the eggshell. It acts as a barrier, sealing the pores and protecting the egg from bacteria and moisture loss. The bloom helps to maintain the freshness and quality of the egg.

Some farms, like Anchored Roots, choose not to wash their eggs to preserve the natural protective bloom. By leaving the bloom intact, the eggs retain their natural barrier against bacteria and maintain their freshness for a longer period.

Yes, unwashed eggs are safe to consume as long as they are handled and stored properly. The protective bloom and the shell provide a natural defense against bacteria, reducing the risk of contamination.

The nutritional composition of washed and unwashed eggs is generally the same. The main difference lies in the presence or absence of the protective bloom, which primarily affects the external integrity and shelf life of the egg.

Unwashed eggs with their protective bloom intact do not require refrigeration as long as they are stored in a cool and dry place. However, it is important to note that once eggs are washed, they should be refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

At Anchored Roots, we believe in preserving the natural integrity of our eggs and providing our customers with the freshest and highest quality products possible. By offering unwashed eggs with the protective bloom intact, we maintain the natural defenses of the eggs and promote sustainable and regenerative farming practices.

Unwashed eggs, with the protective bloom intact, have a longer shelf life compared to washed eggs. When stored properly in a cool and dry environment, unwashed eggs can stay fresh for several weeks.

To ensure the safety of unwashed eggs, it is important to handle them properly. This includes storing them in a cool and dry place, avoiding any cracks or damage to the shells, and practicing good hygiene when handling and preparing the eggs. Cooking eggs thoroughly is also essential for food safety.

Yes, unwashed eggs are suitable for baking and can be used in any recipe that calls for eggs. Just make sure to handle them properly, crack them carefully, and discard any eggs with visible damage or unusual odors.

The flavor of the eggs is primarily determined by the hen's diet and living conditions rather than whether they are washed or unwashed. Unwashed eggs may retain a slightly stronger taste due to the presence of the protective bloom, which can help seal in the natural flavors.

Pasture-raised broilers are raised on pasture, where they have access to fresh air, sunlight, and a natural diet of grass, bugs, and supplemented feed. Conventional broilers, on the other hand, are typically raised in confined indoor spaces and fed a diet primarily consisting of commercial feed.

Pasture-raised broilers often have a higher nutrient content in their meat due to their natural diet and exercise. They tend to have lower fat content, higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, and a more balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio compared to conventional broilers.

Pasture-raised broilers are typically raised in more humane conditions compared to conventional broilers. They have the freedom to move and engage in natural behaviors, which promotes better animal welfare.

Many people find that pasture-raised broilers have a richer and more flavorful taste compared to conventionally raised broilers. The varied diet and exercise contribute to the development of more robust flavors in the meat.

Yes, pasture-raised broilers tend to be more expensive than conventionally raised broilers. This is due to the higher cost of production associated with providing ample space, outdoor access, and quality feed. However, the superior taste, nutritional value, and ethical considerations often justify the higher price for many consumers.

Pasture-raised broilers, when managed properly, can have positive environmental impacts. They contribute to regenerative agriculture practices, as they help improve soil health through natural grazing and reduce the environmental burden associated with confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs).

Yes, you can cook pasture-raised broilers using the same methods as conventional broilers. However, due to their lower fat content, it is important to monitor cooking times to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.

Pasture-raised broilers have access to outdoor spaces where they can roam, forage, and exhibit natural behaviors. They are able to engage in natural behaviors like scratching the ground, pecking at insects, and enjoying fresh air and sunlight. Conventional broilers, on the other hand, are typically raised in confined indoor spaces with limited or no access to the outdoors.

Our pasture-raised broilers are always raised without the use of antibiotics or growth hormones. The focus is on providing them with a healthy and natural lifestyle that supports their overall well-being.

Pasture-raised broilers tend to have leaner meat, so it is important to monitor cooking times and avoid overcooking. Consider using lower cooking temperatures or methods that retain moisture, such as roasting or slow cooking. Additionally, since pasture-raised broilers often have more flavorful meat, you may find that they require less seasoning to enhance their natural taste.

Absolutely! Urban and suburban homesteading is becoming increasingly popular as people seek to become more self-sufficient and sustainable. With proper planning, you can successfully homestead even in limited space.

Urban and suburban homesteading can involve a range of activities, including growing your own food (such as vegetables, herbs, or small fruits), raising backyard chickens for eggs, keeping beehives for honey production, composting, and even practicing small-scale aquaponics or hydroponics.

Yes, it is important to familiarize yourself with local zoning regulations, homeowner association rules, and municipal ordinances that may impact the specific activities you wish to undertake. Some areas may have restrictions on keeping livestock or beehives, while others may have guidelines on garden sizes or fencing.

Urban and suburban homesteading often requires creative use of limited space. Vertical gardening, raised beds, container gardening, and utilizing windowsills or balcony spaces can help maximize the available area for growing plants. Additionally, exploring compact livestock breeds or alternatives like quail or rabbits can be suitable for smaller properties.

Urban and suburban homesteading can provide numerous benefits, such as increased self-sufficiency, access to fresh and healthy food, reduced environmental impact, a deeper connection to nature, and the opportunity to develop new skills and hobbies. It can also foster a sense of community and inspire others to embrace sustainable practices.

Balancing homesteading with other responsibilities requires effective time management and prioritization. Start small, focus on activities that align with your interests and goals, and gradually expand as you gain experience and find a rhythm that works for you. Homesteading can be a fulfilling lifestyle, but it is important to find a balance that fits your individual circumstances.