A note on behalf of semi-hypocritical omnivores everywhere

I recently sent an email through the website of a farming company called Strauss that raises beef, lamb, and veal for consumption. I started buying their beef about a year or so ago when I noticed they popped up in the Jewel near my house. The beef is pretty damn expensive compared to other beef products by different companies, or by Jewel itself, so it wasn't until recently that I completely made the switch to only buy this brand. I generally only buy beef from Jewel, but I am sure Marianos or Trader Joes has something along the same lines as Strauss- animals that are ethically and humanely raised. This includes grass fed, free range on open grass pastures, and without hormones or antibiotics. They are not raised in feedlots, or in pens, and are fed grass as opposed to corn. Their practices are also generally better for the environment, as they reduce their carbon footprint.

Source

So I have chosen this brand to be my go-to brand for beef purchases that are made in this house. It did get me thinking thought about how they actually produce the product that I buy at the store. Now, you might be thinking, "Amy, why do you spend double the money on beef that is raised humanely, but then killed to eat? If you care so much, why not just be vegetarian?" Yea, I know. I have gotten that question many times. And it is a good one. Honestly? I'm just not ready. I like hamburgers, meatballs, and chicken. Man I love chicken. But that doesn't mean that I want my chicken or beef to be treated horribly, and then die an awful and painful death. Which is why I am willing to pay a little more money to support those companies that align with my opinions and values on this subject. I will say that I am enjoying different ways to bring in vegetarian options into my diet. Animals are adorable and I feel awful about eating them sometimes, but I'm just not there on making the commitment to be 100% meat free...yet...?

Anyway, here's the email I sent. Hopefully I'll get a response!

Hi,
I live in a suburb of Chicago, and I am very pleased with my local Jewel offering Strauss Free Raised beef for purchase. I never hesitate to buy your product over the other cheaper, and lower quality beef that is offered. Your practices and values when raising your animals are important to me as a consumer and I am grateful that I live in a town where your product is offered.
With that being said, I am wondering if you have more information on the butchering practices of the animals your raise. I see that there is a section on your website marked "Butchery" that shows the cuts of the animal, and the soon to be section that will introduce us to the butchers you employ, but I am wondering more about the method you use to actually kill the animal.
I am just trying to gather information on your product, as I want to be more informed on the choice that I make to purchase your product.
Thank you very much for your time! I do appreciate it.
- Amy



P.S.- I teach little kiddos, of the K and 1st grade variety, so using words like "butchery" and "kill" were like saying the F word out loud in a crowded room. <Insert nervous emoji here>

P.P.S.- I did not include that last P.S. in my email to Strauss. Or this P.P.S. either. Just f.y.i.