Benefits of Regenerative, Pasture-Raised Turkeys for Thanksgiving
As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re preparing our pasture-raised turkeys so our customers will have the best, most flavorful turkey dinner. At The Farms of Illinois, we are proud to offer turkeys raised with regenerative farming practices that prioritize animal welfare, environmental health, and high-quality food. Our approach to raising turkeys is rooted in sustainable agriculture, where each step of the process ensures both the well-being of the birds and the vitality of the land. We believe that healthy, flavorful food comes from a system where nature and farming work hand in hand.
If you’re interested in learning about the benefits of regenerative, pasture-raised turkeys, keep reading to learn more about the flavor and nutrition benefits, as well as how our regenerative practices benefit not only the turkeys but also the soil, ecosystem, and community, delivering superior-quality meat for your family’s table this Thanksgiving!
Flavor & Health Benefits of Regenerative Farming
Our regenerative practices are designed to mimic the natural environment, creating a sustainable farming system that benefits both the animals and the land. When turkeys are raised on pasture with access to fresh air, grass, and insects, they are healthier and less stressed. The ability to forage naturally and live outdoors allows them to build muscle and develop rich, flavorful meat.
Choosing a pasture-raised turkey offers more than just a flavorful meal—it also supports a more sustainable and ethical food system. Our pasture-raised turkeys are free from hormones and antibiotics, giving you the peace of mind that comes from eating clean, nutrient-dense meat. Thanks to their diverse diet of grass, insects, and non-GMO grains, our turkeys provide higher levels of beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.
Environmental Benefits
When you choose regenerative products, you are also investing in the health of the planet. Regenerative agriculture actively works to restore ecosystems, improve soil health, and reduce the environmental impact of farming.
By rotating the turkeys frequently, we prevent overgrazing and allow the pasture to recover. This promotes soil health, which improves water retention, reduces erosion, and enhances biodiversity. Healthy soil is the foundation of regenerative agriculture, ensuring that our farm can thrive without the need for synthetic fertilizers or harmful chemicals. So by supporting local farmers who prioritize sustainability, you are contributing to a food system that is better for the environment, the animals, and future generations.
How Our Regenerative Turkey Farming System Works
Our regenerative turkeys come from Abundant Pastures, where the turkeys begin their journey on the farm as day-old poults, or baby turkeys. During their first eight weeks, the poults live in a brooder, a warm and protective environment that keeps them safe while they grow and develop feathers. These feathers are essential, as they allow the turkeys to regulate their body temperature and prepare them for life on pasture.
Once the turkeys reach about eight weeks old, they are moved to pasture, where they live out the remainder of their lives. On the pasture, the turkeys roam freely, engaging in natural behaviors like pecking at grass and foraging for bugs. Their feed ration—made entirely on our farm with non-GMO ingredients—ensures they receive a balanced diet that promotes healthy growth.
Our regenerative turkey system includes a three-day rotational grazing method where the turkeys are moved to fresh pasture multiple times a week. This rotation follows behind our flock of lambs, eating the bugs and insects in the area. The turkeys contribute to pasture health by naturally controlling pests and breaking down organic material, which helps regenerate the grass.
Purchasing Our Pasture-Raised Turkeys
The turkeys raised by The Farms of Illinois are a reflection of our core values—care for the animals, respect for the land, and a commitment to quality. Every step of the process is designed to promote animal welfare and sustainable farming. Our regenerative approach not only improves the health of the land but also produces superior-quality meat that you can feel good about serving to your family.
By purchasing our regenerative turkeys, you are not just feeding your family—you are also supporting local farmers who are committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices. Your support helps keep small farms in business, encourages the growth of sustainable agriculture in Illinois, and ensures that high-quality, nutrient-dense food remains accessible to our community.
This holiday season—or any time of year—choose a regenerative, pasture-raised turkey from The Farms of Illinois. They will be frozen and delivered to your doorstep the week before Thanksgiving to give you plenty of time for brining or other turkey preparations. We have whole turkeys, turkey breasts, and turkey drumsticks available for customers in Central Illinois.