Earth Fare Now Offers NCS Smoked Meats
North Country Smokehouse Now Available at Earth Fare
Retailer Enhances their Certified Humane® & Organic Meat Offering
CLAREMONT, NH – August 9, 2021. Mid Atlantic-based retailer, Earth Fare, well-known for their mission to help people live healthy lives, is now offering all-natural, Certified Humane® and USDA Organic smoked meats handcrafted by New Hampshire-based producer, North Country Smokehouse.
Earth Fare’s 22 retail locations, spanning eight states from Michigan to Florida, began offering 4 leading smokehouse skus in early August. Flavors include organic Polish Style Kielbasa, all-natural certified humane Vermont Cheddar Sausage, and Smoky Maple Breakfast Links. In addition to the sausage offerings, shoppers can now purchase humanely raised Sugar-Free Fruitwood Smoked Bacon by the pound in the butcher case.
Committed to transparency and craftmanship, these core principles drive the strict product standards Earth Fare shoppers have come to expect from the brand. Their ‘Boot List’ contains over 150 ingredients that have been deemed potentially harmful to the human body. Any product containing these ingredients is banned from the store. “This is especially important because food labels can be very misleading,” says Mike, Kelly, VP of Business Development for North Country Smokehouse. “Our Certified Humane® products are third-party audited to ensure we’re meeting strict animal welfare standards and they don’t contain hormones or antibiotics – ever. Our USDA Organic products not only meet but exceed federal standards. They do not contain GMO’s or animal byproducts, and the pork is vegetarian-fed from our very own grain mills.” Earth Fare does the work of weeding out low-quality ingredients for their customers, so they can shop with confidence. Their product offerings never contain artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.”
“The partnership just fits”, Kelly continues. “North Country takes pride in crafting small batch recipes with the best possible ingredients. We have a loyal following on the East Coast and this relationship makes it even easier for shoppers to find the products they know and love or try a new flavor they haven’t had access to in the past.”
About North Country Smokehouse
As one of America’s few remaining, family-owned smokehouses, North Country’s mission is to handcraft premium, artisanal smoked meats through culinary excellence, exceptional animal care standards, and respect for the land. Located in the heart of New England, their authentic charcuterie features only the best hand-selected, natural ingredients, and small-batch smoking process over embers of local hardwoods.
Available in traditional, all-natural certified humane ®, and organic varieties, the NCS product line features smoked bacon, ham, sausages, and deli meats, as well as unique offerings like smoked chicken, and Cajun Pork Tasso. Their recipes are prepared using old-world, European techniques, resulting in the distinct flavor they are well-known for today.
Recognized for an innovative approach to dining, North Country Smokehouse partners with respected chefs nationwide, to develop signature recipes that enhance menus with their on-trend approach to flavor. Voted America’s Best Bacon by Men’s Journal, New England’s Best Meat by Yankee Magazine, and The Best Bacon in America by Food & Wine, North Country has been noted for balancing taste with time-honored tradition and modern food trends.
Available through upscale retailers, discerning distributors, and with custom-crafted recipes in noted restaurants, hotels, and resorts across the country, North Country has provided customers with better choices at the table for more than 100 years.
Visit ncsmokehouse.com for more information.
About Earth Fare:
Earth Fare, an established natural food market previously spanning 50 stores, filed for bankruptcy in early February of 2020. In March, a loyal customer and local Asheville business leader, Dennis Hulsing purchased Earth Fare with the vision to re-establish stores in select communities across the east coast. Supported by the original founders, local advocates, and previous Earth Fare Team Members, they began the renewed mission of helping people live healthy lives. Currently, Earth Fare operates 22 locations across eight states with ongoing plans for future expansion.
####
7 Reasons to Eat Organic Smoked Meat
Before diving into the important question of why eat organic, let’s start with what is organic? The USDA Organic program outlines standards of compliance for things like soil quality, animal welfare practices, the use of pesticides, and chemical additives. Regulations prohibit organic foods from containing ingredients made with artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. When it comes to organic meat, animals must be raised in living conditions that accommodate natural behaviors like rooting, grazing, and foraging. They cannot be administered antibiotics or added-growth hormones. Finally, organic foods cannot contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
It is estimated that more than $1 trillion dollars is spent on food annually, but only 5% of that number is spent on organics. Organic food is the fastest-growing food segment with more people opting for non-GMO organic meats in place of conventional products. With so much information readily available about the benefits of organic foods and farming practices, we cannot help but ask ourselves why more shoppers have not made the switch?
If you’re on the fence, wondering why the sudden shift towards organic food is such a big deal, or worse – you feel like the path towards organic foods is laden with false claims or label whitewashing – this short read can help you stack up the evidence in favor of organic eats. There are hundreds of reasons to grace your plate with sustainably sourced meats. From health and wellness to environmentally friendly farming, we’re here to break it down for you – in small bites.
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” – John Muir
No GMOs
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are defined as plants, animals, or microorganisms whose genetic makeup has been modified in a laboratory to create combinations not normally found in nature. They were designed to make crops more resistant to herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, and increase crop yield.
Foods containing GMOs require ever-increasing, toxic herbicides to control crops, most of which contain glyphosate, a key ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup ®. In March 2015, the World Health Organization determined that the herbicide glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic to humans.”
GMOs are found in many of the products people buy every day and new GMOs are being developed all the time. Their safety is unknown due to the lack of credible, long-term studies. Sixty-four countries around the world, including Australia, Japan, and all the countries in the European Union, require genetically modified foods to be labeled. The vast majority of the crops grown in North America are genetically modified. For this reason, many consumers choose to opt-out of what is commonly referred to as the ‘GMO Experiment’.
GMOs promote non-sustainable, chemical agriculture and are developed and sold by the world’s largest chemical companies. The long-term impact of GMOs remains unknown but what we do know is that their effects on personal health and the environment are wide-spreading and permanent.
Support for a Healthy Environment
Organic farming has long-term, positive impacts on soil, water, air, biodiversity, and climate change. The practice aims to establish an ecological balance between food production and the environment. Our organic farms rely on renewable resources and reduce the use of harmful chemicals in the environment. Considered a proactive approach to long-term sustainability, these practices protect environmental health by reducing the use of non-renewable energy, agrochemicals, and fossil fuels.
It’s More Natural
USDA organic standards strictly monitor the use of insecticides, fungicides, fertilizers, and weedkillers in food production. Organic farms produce healthy foods without the use of synthetic additives. If they do use pesticides, they are derived from natural substances.
No Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives
Clean food means a cleaner diet and better health. Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors are not allowed in organic foods. These synthetic substances have been linked to serious health problems such as hyperactivity in children, depression, and cancer. Certain artificial flavors have been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as well as the FDA and the European Union. Our organic Applewood Smoked bacon, sausage, and deli meats proudly display ‘free-from’ claims’, so shoppers can find better-for-you food options on the shelf easily.
Clean Water
Organic farms use natural fertilizers and compostable matter. Research shows crops grown in healthy soil can resist disease, survive drought, and tolerate insects more readily. Organic farming reduces the need for toxic pesticides, which create harmful runoff and contaminate ground and surface water, negatively impacting aquatic life.
Hold the Antibiotics and Added Growth Hormones
Most experts agree that the use of antibiotics has adverse effects on public health. Consuming trace amounts of antibiotics over an extended period creates an unnatural tolerance to these medications, making germs increasingly drug-resistant, and medications less effective over time. Support everyday health by choosing antibiotic-free bacon with no growth hormones.
The Future
Organic food is the largest growing sector of the food industry but only accounts for 5% of the $1 trillion dollars spent on food annually. The more consumers demand organic food, the faster it will be produced to meet that demand. The higher the demand, the more affordable the products become. That means organic food will become more readily available to people of all walks of life, and everyone should have access to better-for-you food. When you buy organic, you are doing your part to protect the earth’s natural resources for future generations.
So, there you have it, seven simple truths about the benefits of eating organic. We encourage consumers to visit sites like USDA Organic, US Department of Agriculture, and the Non-GMO Project for more information about organic food and farming.
At North Country Smokehouse, we believe the choices we make have a significant and lasting impact on the quality of life for people and the planet. We are committed to the evolution of better-for-you foods and handcrafting them with integrity, transparency, and respect. It is our mission to restore value to our farm and food systems.
Bacon Business Podcast: Meat & Poultry
North Country Smokehouse CEO, Aaron Corbett and VP of Business Development, Mike Kelly talk strategy & expansion with Ryan McCarthy from MEAT+POULTRY on this week’s Bacon Business Podcast.
In this segment, North Country Smokehouse senior execs discuss how the brand is heading West across the United States as the natural, next step.
With its vertically integrated system, North Country Smokehouse can handle and control many of the supply and demand issues that challenge other producers. This advantage has led to growth of the company’s organic bacon business throughout 2021.
NCS Organics Now Available at Wegmans
North Country Smokehouse Meats Now Available at Select Wegman’s
CLAREMONT, NH – (6/10/21) New Hampshire-based producer, North Country Smokehouse, is now offering two handcrafted, artisanal meats at select Wegmans Food Market locations. Founded in 1916, the regional grocery store chain is committed to helping customers live healthier, better lives by offering a wide range of exceptional products while delivering incredible customer service.
Wegmans shoppers can now purchase Organic Sugar-Free Applewood Smoked Bacon and Organic Bratwurst sausage, available in select stores in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and Brooklyn, NY.
“North Country products check all the boxes.” says Joe Quijano, Regional Business Development Manager for North Country Smokehouse. “Not only are these products non-gmo USDA Organic, but we raise the bar by committing to Certified Humane® animal welfare standards under our Organic farm program. It’s all about flavorful foods produced in the most ethical way possible.”
“Crafting premium smoked meats in a socially responsible way means respecting the animals and the environment. We recognize our role in the food system supply chain, and we take it seriously. We are doing our part to restore these values in the farm and food systems. When like-minded brands collaborate to make better options available to consumers, everyone wins.” says Quijano.
NCS Announces West Coast Expansion
Products Now Available at KeHe, Tony’s Fine Foods, Newport Meats, Gelson’s Market, and Bristol Farms
CLAREMONT, N.H. – (April 14, 2021) – North Country Smokehouse, a third-generation, family-owned business, and producer of small-batch artisanal smoked meats, announces West Coast expansion. The new footprint includes partnerships with well-known distributors like KeHe, Tony’s Fine Foods, and Newport Meats, as well as California-based retailers Gelson’s Market and Bristol Farms.
“Expanding our footprint to the West Coast was a natural next step for us,” said Aaron Corbett, CEO. “Consumers are looking for humanely raised and organic meats and they want to buy from brands that value social responsibility. The West Coast leads the charge when it comes to actively seeking out better-for-you foods. Not only do they eat humanely raised and organic meat more frequently, but they also search out transparent brands they know they can trust.”
North Country Smokehouse has been proudly displayed on white linen restaurant menus nationwide for more than 3 decades. “We entered into the retail space about five years ago,” says Corbett. Prior to that, our small-batch, smoked meats were only available through discerning distributors in Eastern regions. Many West Coast chefs would source our products and bring them in as a specialty item.”
North Country Smokehouse’s retail products display a bold claim that reads Some Things Simply Can’t Be Compromised. “Our products are one-of-a-kind,” says Corbett. “We focus on patience and persistence, taking our time to handcraft every item. We do not rush for the sake of efficiency or yield like others do. We credit the low & slow smoking process with our flavor and high quality. It’s part of the recipe.”
The move towards the West Coast was set into motion four years ago, when Mike Kelly, Vice President of Business Development joined the team with the goal of expanding certified humane and organic bacon, sausage, deli meat, and ham into retail grocers. Mike’s more than 30 years of CPG experience plays a large part in North Country’s expansion. As part of the overarching strategy, he brought new hire, Kimberly Novkov, aboard as the West Coast Regional Sales Manager.
Kimberly is an L.A. native and prior to her new role at the smokehouse, she worked for a competing smoked meat brand in the same geography. “We’re excited to have Kimberly with us. Not only does she understand the market, but she also has existing relationships with many of the buyers and understands the trends towards humanely raised and organic meats. While many brands remain focused on commodity products, the move towards sustainably sourced meat cannot be denied. Kimberly is getting our products in front of customers who want better-for-you foods but are not willing to sacrifice flavor.”
The demand for certified humane and organic meats is growing rapidly and Western states are driving the demand. “North Country Smokehouse offers a unique value because of our relationship to the source,” says Kelly. “We’re a subsidiary of duBreton, a family-owned, agri-food company who leads North America in the supply of certified humane and organic pork. The vertically integrated system gives us more control of the farm to fork supply chain, so we can deliver premium products consistently and more cost-effectively. We source our pork from our very own farm network – never off the market. It’s an advantage for our customers because they can depend on us for consistent, quality products and they know we can meet their demand.”
duBreton has more than 400 family farms in their network, all committed to certified humane and organic farming. “Their farms are audited year-round to ensure the animals are being raised with respect and have the ability to engage in natural behaviors,” says Kelly. “They exceed federal regulations that define humanely raised and organic meat. They look at the standards, meet them, and then surpass them. It’s about doing the right thing.” duBreton places respect for the animal above all else, banning the use of electric prods and commonly used practices like tail-trimming.
Today, North Country Smokehouse can be found in most upscale retailers along the East Coast like Hannaford, Stop & Shop, Shaw’s, Market Basket, Big Y, Target, and more than 300 Whole Foods Market locations. In addition, their products can be found on the shelves of more than 500 independent retailers down the Eastern Coast. West Coast consumers can find their products in Gelson’s Market and Bristol Farm’s locations throughout California. They also have an e-commerce website that carries specialty products, gift baskets and offers bacon of the month club membership.
About North Country Smokehouse
As one of America’s few remaining, family-owned smokehouses, North Country’s mission is to handcraft premium, artisanal smoked meats through culinary excellence, exceptional animal care standards, and respect for the land. Located in the heart of New England, their authentic charcuterie features only the best hand-selected, natural ingredients, and small-batch smoking process over embers of local hardwoods.
Available in traditional, all-natural certified humane, and organic varieties, the NCS product line features smoked bacon, ham, sausages, and deli meats, as well as unique offerings like smoked chicken, and Cajun Pork Tasso. Their recipes are crafted using old-world, European techniques, resulting in the distinct flavor they are well-known for today.
Recognized for an innovative approach to dining, North Country Smokehouse partners with respected chefs nationwide, to develop signature recipes that enhance menus with their on-trend approach to flavor. Voted America’s Best Bacon by Men’s Journal, New England’s Best Meat by Yankee Magazine, and The Best Bacon in America by Food & Wine, North Country has been noted for balancing taste with time-honored tradition and modern food trends.
Available through upscale retailers, discerning distributors, and with custom-crafted recipes in noted restaurants, hotels, and resorts across the country, North Country has provided customers with better choices at the table for more than 100 years.
Visit ncsmokehouse.com for more information.
