Food Chain - Issue 201a - September 2024 | Page 47

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Applegate
Farms
farming has improved their business and the longevity of their farms . From a long-term sustainability and environmental standpoint , we believe that regenerative agriculture is the way that we , as a mission-driven brand , should be moving in order to pull the rest of the industry towards the same gold standard ,” she informs .
Giving credit where it is due , Joe affirms that Applegate does not undertake regenerative agriculture itself . Instead , it is implemented by the vast network of farmers with which it works . “ Across the various animal species we source , we have a network of over 4000 farmers , all of whom are third-party audited and certified . Our systems provide traceability to guarantee the source of our products and to maintain our rigorous standards . For example , we added video monitoring to some of our processes to ensure that we are following through on our commitments .
Additionally , there is a small team within Applegate that conducts audits of the audits , thereby further assuring compliance . Through this , Carolyn and the rest of our team get to know the farmers and farming families very well , which is a rewarding aspect of our business ,” he expresses .
Safeguarding farmland
Applegate ’ s commitment to working alongside farmers is also displayed through its partnership with the American Farmland
... this partnership is focused on promoting sustainable farming practices that protect farmland and support farmers
Trust . “ Launched earlier this year , this partnership is focused on promoting sustainable farming practices that protect farmland and support farmers ,” says Carolyn . “ Both of our organizations are aligned in our desire to advocate for regenerative agricultural practices that support farmers and keep them on their land . The American Farmland Trust ,
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