Pork Cooperative Starts New Trend
MOUNTAIN VIEW, MO, March 14, 2003

Today's introduction of Heritage Acres meat products marks the beginning of a new era for Missouri family farmers and for consumers throughout the state, according to agriculture experts.

"A group of Missouri family farmers has banded together to form a cooperative to produce the Heritage Acres products," said Russ Kremer, president of the Ozark Mountain Pork Cooperative and Missouri Farmers Union, the organization that helped bring the 35 farm families together. "The farmers focus on a philosophy that emphasizes concern for the environment, respect for workers and production of the highest-quality natural meat. This is an approach where everyone works together and everyone wins-small farmers keep their farms and consumers get an outstanding product."

Kremer was among the numerous dignitaries on hand for today's kickoff event at a Mountain View, MO, grocery store. Missouri Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell also participated in the event.

"Preserving the tradition of the family farm is critical to the future of Missouri," Maxwell said. "Innovative approaches like this help strengthen our state's economy by keeping labor production and revenues local, which truly benefits our communities."

Missouri Grocers Association Director John Morrison noted at the gathering that the Heritage Acres cooperative effort helps create a seamless food system that involves retailers, consumers, workers and family farmers.

Morrison also announced a new program, "Missouri Pride," designed to help consumers choose quality products from Missouri producers. The Missouri Pride seal alerts consumers that they are buying a product of Missouri agriculture that is marketed with the assurance of the highest quality and value.

"Our members are always looking for the finest quality products available because they know their customers expect the best," he said. "These Heritage Acres products will be the first to have the Missouri Pride Seal of Quality."

Heritage Acres products will be available at select groceries this month. Currently the product line includes smoked pork chops, Canadian bacon, baby back ribs, sausages, and ham.

At Heritage Acres farms, animals are well cared for. They receive personal attention with fresh air, high quality feed and clean, natural living space with less stress. No hormones or unnecessary additives are administered at any time. Research shows that the kind of approach taken by these farmers results in superior meat.

The meat is naturally processed in a small, locally-operated plant owned by the farmer members. Heritage Acres products are not irradiated. The environment is protected through improved waste handling and prohibition of unnecessary chemicals or additives.

"The family farm has always been a symbol of quality," Kremer said. "The Heritage Acres farm families are committed to creating stable rural communities that can ensure that people who love to work the land can continue to follow that dream. It is a dream that will benefit us all."

If you are your group has a unique value added idea that that needs assistance, or community development feel free to contact us. The Family Farm Center is located within the Missouri Farmers Union office and can be reached by calling (573) 659-4787 or emailing jlucht@missourifarmersunion.org.