Nurturing Nature: Organic Pasture-Raised Chicken Farming at Farm2Fork

At Farm2Fork in Devon, raising organic pasture-raised chickens is both a passion and a commitment to sustainable and humane farming practices. Our journey with these chickens begins when they arrive as day-old chicks.

The adventure starts in a cosy, specially designed heated barn where the chicks stay for three weeks until they are fully feathered and strong enough for life outside. During their time here, we provide a warm, safe environment essential for their early development. We carefully control the temperature to mimic the warmth they would receive from a mother hen, ensuring they are comfortable and able to grow strong. This period is crucial, as it sets the foundation for healthy and robust chickens, giving them the best nurturing start in a natural and enriching environment.

We raise chickens seasonally from April through October—the milder months enable us to give the chickens the maximum amount of freedom, comfort, and access to delicious pasture 24/7. Our pastures are more than just open spaces: they are thriving ecosystems filled with a variety of nutritious herbs, grasses, insects, and other natural delights that chickens love to forage for. Their diet is supplemented with organic grain to provide a nutritionally complete and balanced diet, free from antibiotics and GMOs.

In the open fields, we provide mobile shelters to protect the chickens from the elements—these shelters are moved daily to fresh pastures. The chickens are also safeguarded by our loyal guardian dogs, Lula and Nala, whose presence keeps them calm and relaxed as they peck and forage contentedly. This trusted combination enables the chickens to roam freely 24/7. The bond between the dogs and the chickens is remarkable, as they coexist peacefully, each understanding their role in this balanced ecosystem.

The pure Devon air, sunlight, and space to roam freely all contribute to the chickens' overall well-being. They happily engage in natural behaviours such as scratching, pecking, and dust bathing, which are vital for their mental and physical health. This freedom and varied diet result in chickens that are not only happier but also healthier and more mentally stimulated. 

The chickens at Farm2Fork play an integral role in creating a sustainable, regenerative, and holistic farming system. As they roam the pasture, they enrich the soil with essential nutrients from their manure and help to control pests naturally while they forage, eliminating the need for chemical fertilisers and pesticides. They aerate the soil when they scratch and peck at the ground, promoting water infiltration, plant root growth, and overall soil structure. This natural behaviour supports pasture management and complements the farm's other livestock.

As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to these principles. Raising organic pasture-raised chickens is more than a method: it’s a philosophy that guides our daily operations and long-term goals. We are proud to offer products that reflect our commitment to ethical farming and sustainability, knowing that each chicken raised at Farm2Fork contributes to a healthier planet and a more mindful way of living.