LaBelle Patrimoine, based in Lancaster County, is setting a new standard in ethical and sustainable poultry farming. They are known for their pasture-raised chicken and offer heirloom turkey during the holiday season.
This year, we are proud to offer the LaBelle Patrimoine Heirloom Bronze Whole Turkey. Raised in Amish country by small family farms under the direction of a sixth-generation poultry farmer, this heritage breed turkey is truly special and very limited. With less breast meat and more flavorful dark meat, it offers a rich, robust taste. Pasture-raised outdoors with plenty of space to roam, these turkeys thrive on natural foraging and traditional farming practices that meet the highest animal welfare standards. A spectacular centerpiece for Thanksgiving!
LaBelle Patrimoine heirloom turkeys live outside. As a heritage breed, they have strong foraging instincts and are raised on pasture by family farms in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This is a key distinction from commercial turkeys, which are typically raised indoors in climate-controlled environments.
Here is what it means for LaBelle Patrimoine turkeys to live outside:
- Foraging behavior: Heritage turkeys thrive on open land where they can engage in natural behaviors like pecking and scratching. They graze on grasses, clovers, and other vegetation, and also eat insects, which contribute to a richer flavor in the meat.
- Space to roam: As a pasture-raised animal, they have plenty of room to roam, which provides exercise and leads to a healthier, more active bird.
- Growth and flavor: The slower growth rate and active lifestyle of heritage breeds like LaBelle Patrimoine lead to a deeper, more robust flavor compared to fast-growing, conventionally raised turkeys.
- Protection from elements and predators: While they live outdoors, farmers still need to provide secure shelter and fencing to protect the flock from predators and harsh weather. This might include mobile roosts or a protected coop where they can be secured at night.
- Limited flight: Unlike wild turkeys, large heritage breeds may have limited flight capabilities. Some farmers may clip their wings to prevent them from flying over fences, especially hens looking for a place to nest.