Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pasture?

A pasture is an area of land covered with grass or other low-growing plants that is used for grazing livestock. Pastures can vary in size from small plots of land to vast expanses, and they can be natural or cultivated. Grazing animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and horses are allowed to roam and feed on the vegetation within the pasture. Pastures are important for providing food and habitat for livestock, promoting soil health and biodiversity, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. They are a key component of pastoral farming systems around the world.

What are pastured chickens?

Pastured chickens are chickens that are raised outdoors on pasture or grassy areas, where they can roam freely and forage for food naturally.

How are pastured chickens different from conventionally raised chickens?

Pastured chickens are allowed access to outdoor pasture areas for grazing and foraging, whereas conventionally raised chickens are typically raised indoors in crowded confinement facilities. Hijou Pastured Chickens are 100% natural; free from  antibiotics, hormones or steroids.

What do pastured chickens eat?

Pastured chickens primarily eat grass, bugs, insects, seeds, and other vegetation found in their pasture environment. They may also be supplemented with premium grain feed. Through extensive research, at Hijou, our chickens’ all natural feeds are specially formulated for their optimum health and wellbeing.

Are pastured chickens healthier than conventionally raised chickens?

Pastured chickens tend to have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals due to their natural diet and outdoor lifestyle. They are also not exposed to antibiotics and other chemicals commonly used in conventional chicken farming.

What are the environmental benefits of pastured chicken farming?

Pastured chicken farming promotes biodiversity, improves soil health, and reduces pollution compared to conventional chicken farming methods. It also allows for more sustainable land use practices.

Do pastured chickens have access to the outdoors all the time?

Ideally, pastured chickens should have access to the outdoors throughout the day so they can engage in natural behaviours like foraging and sunbathing. At Hijou eco-farm, we deploy Chicken Tractors on the pasture.

How much space do pastured chickens have compared to conventional chickens?

Pastured chickens typically have significantly more space (no more than 350 chickens in 50,000 sqft) to forage compared to conventionally raised chickens, which are often confined to crowded indoor barns or cages.(less than 1 sqft per chicken)

Are pastured chickens more humanely raised?

Pastured chickens are generally considered to be more humanely raised compared to conventionally raised chickens, as they are allowed to exhibit natural behaviors and live in a more spacious and enriching environment.

How do pastured chickens contribute to regenerative agriculture?

Pastured chickens play a role in regenerative agriculture by improving soil health through their grazing and scratching behaviours, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and promoting sustainable land management practices. It’s literally Good for the Land.

What are Chicken Tractors?

Chicken tractors are deployed for our pastured chickens for several reasons, primarily to provide a mobile and controlled environment for the chickens to graze on fresh pasture while still being protected from predators and adverse weather conditions.

Here are some reasons why chicken tractors are used:

1. Rotational Grazing: Chicken tractors allow for rotational grazing practices, where chickens are moved to fresh pasture regularly. This helps prevent overgrazing of vegetation and allows pastures to regenerate, promoting soil health and biodiversity.

2. Protection from Predators: Chicken tractors provide a secure enclosure for chickens, protecting them from predators such as snakes, wild boar and birds of prey. The enclosed structure of the chicken tractor typically includes wire mesh walls and a roof to deter predators from accessing the chickens.

3. Controlled Environment: Chicken tractors allow us to control the chickens' environment, including their access to food, water, and shelter. This enables us to easily monitor the chickens' health and well-being more closely and provide for their needs effectively.

4. Natural Foraging: Chicken tractors enable chickens to engage in natural foraging behaviours, such as scratching and pecking for insects, seeds, and vegetation. This provides the chickens with a varied and nutritious diet, improves the quality of their meat and eggs, and promotes healthier, more flavourful products.

5. Manure Management: Chicken tractors facilitate the management of chicken manure by confining it to a specific area. As the tractors are moved to fresh pasture, the manure deposited by the chickens fertilizes the soil, improving soil fertility and promoting plant growth.

6. Mobile Infrastructure: Chicken tractors are designed to be mobile, allowing us to easily move them to different areas of the pasture. This flexibility allows for efficient land management practices, such as pasture rotation and multi-species grazing, and helps prevent soil compaction and degradation.

Overall, chicken tractors are a practical and sustainable tool for raising pastured chickens, providing a balance between mobility, protection, and natural foraging opportunities for the chickens while promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture practices.

Overall, consuming factory-farmed chicken meat may pose health risks due to factors such as antibiotic resistance, hormone and chemical exposure, lower nutritional quality, higher levels of contaminants, and environmental concerns. Choosing pasture-raised, organic, or sustainably produced chicken meat can help mitigate these risks and support healthier and more environmentally friendly food systems. Your everyday choices matter.

What are the key features of your pastured chickens that would appeal to potential customers?

Our pastured chickens are raised in open fields where they have access to fresh grass, insects, and sunlight, resulting in superior taste, texture, and nutritional quality compared to conventionally raised chickens. (Farm Factory)

What is my first step?

Start learning about HIJOU’s Natural Pastured Chickens. There’s plenty of resources on our blog, YouTube channel, FB, Instagram posts. DM us to express your interests and we will get you started.

Am I the right fit?

Not everyone is the right fit. This is a micro business opportunity that can create an additional income stream for your household. It is easily sustainable, because of it's nature of business. Chickens are the main protein meat for most households. Repeat business is expected once the consumer's switch from Farm Factories chickens to natural pastured chickens. You are the right fit if you are passionate about health and sustainable farming. This is not a business that may earn you millions of dollars, but it is for you - if you believe in wealth in health and making a positive impact in your community. 

Are HIJOU Natural Pastured Chickens certified organic or raised using any specific farming practices?

While we are not certified organic, we adhere to organic principles in our farming practices. Our chickens are raised without antibiotics, hormones, or GMO feed, and they have constant access to pasture and are rotated regularly to ensure optimal health and sustainability.

What support and training do HIJOU provide to agents who want to sell our pastured chickens?

We offer comprehensive training on our farming practices, product knowledge, and sales strategies. Additionally, we provide marketing materials, ongoing support, and access to our team for any questions or concerns.

Are there any geographical restrictions or exclusivity agreements for agents selling your pastured chickens?

We welcome agents from various regions and do not impose exclusivity agreements. However, we do consider geographical factors and existing partnerships to ensure a balanced distribution network.

How do I get consistent supply and quality of pastured chickens throughout the year?

We have a carefully managed breeding and production schedule to ensure a steady supply of pastured chickens year-round. Our stringent quality control measures and regular farm inspections guarantee consistent product quality.

What are the packaging and labelling requirements for your pastured chickens, and how do agents handle these aspects?

Our pastured chickens are frozen vacuum packed and labelled with relevant product information. Agents are responsible for ensuring proper handling, storage, and labeling of the product according to our guidelines.

What sets your pastured chickens apart from competitors, and how can agents leverage this to increase sales?

Our commitment to sustainable farming practices, humane treatment of animals, and superior product quality sets us apart from competitors. Agents can emphasize these unique selling points to attract discerning customers seeking premium poultry products.

What marketing strategies can I use to promote my pastured chickens?

First and foremost, it is about working towards getting your hot circle of friends and families onboard with the healthier and smarter choices to switch to Pastured Raised Chickens. Of course, you are encouraged to  use social media, local farmers' markets, community events, and word-of-mouth advertising to promote. Highlight the benefits of pastured chickens, such as their superior taste and health benefits.

What marketing support do you provide to agents to help them promote your pastured chickens?

We provide agents with marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and digital assets. Additionally, we collaborate on local advertising campaigns, social media promotions, and events to generate awareness and drive sales.

What is the pricing structure for your pastured chickens, and are there any discounts or incentives for agents?

Our pricing is competitive and reflects the premium quality of our pastured chickens. We offer Agent discounts and incentives for agents who meet or exceed sales targets.

What permits or licenses do I need to sell pastured chickens?

It’s a micro business opportunity, but you may want to set-up an enterprise (ROB) to make it easier for you to handle your taxes (if any) and finances.

What equipment do I need?

You’ll need a dedicated freezer to store your inventory of the chickens; which will be provided by HIJOU once you signed on as HIJOU's  Agent.

How can agents get started selling your farm's pastured chickens, and what are the next steps in the partnership process? How do I get started?

Agents can reach out and DM us to express interest and discuss partnership opportunities. We'll provide detailed information, conduct an onboarding session, and collaborate on a mutually beneficial partnership agreement to ensure success for both parties.

Why should I, as a chef, consider using naturally pastured chickens in my dishes?

Naturally pastured chickens offer superior taste, texture, and nutritional value compared to conventionally raised chickens. Naturally pastured chickens are considered the Premium Gold Standard. Their free foraging lifestyle results in leaner meat with richer flavours, which can elevate the quality of your culinary creations.

How can incorporating naturally pastured chickens enhance the reputation of my restaurant or brand?

By sourcing ingredients like naturally pastured chickens, you demonstrate a commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical food practices. This commitment can resonate with conscientious consumers who prioritize environmentally friendly and humane food choices, thus enhancing your restaurant's reputation and attracting a loyal customer base.

What are the potential marketing opportunities associated with using naturally pastured chickens?

Utilizing naturally pastured chickens provides a compelling narrative for marketing campaigns. You can highlight the superior taste, ethical treatment of animals, and environmental sustainability of your ingredients, appealing to consumers who value transparency and authenticity in their dining experiences.

How can I effectively communicate the benefits of naturally pastured chickens to my target audience?

Craft messaging that emphasizes the unique selling points of naturally pastured chickens, such as their hormone-free diet, access to open pasture, and higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Utilize various marketing channels, including social media, website content, and in-store signage, to educate consumers about the value proposition of your ingredients.

What impact can using naturally pastured chickens have on my bottom line?

While the initial cost of sourcing naturally pastured chickens may be higher than conventionally raised alternatives, the perceived value and quality of your dishes can justify premium pricing. Additionally, attracting health-conscious and environmentally aware customers can result in increased customer loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals, ultimately driving revenue growth.

How can I differentiate my restaurant or brand from competitors who also promote the use of natural, sustainable ingredients?

Focus on the unique aspects of your sourcing practices, such as partnerships with us  or and even gain exclusive access to specific breeds of naturally pastured chickens. Highlighting these points of differentiation can set your restaurant apart in a crowded market and attract discerning consumers seeking truly exceptional dining experiences.

What steps can I take to ensure a consistent supply of naturally pastured chickens for my menu?

Establish strong relationships with HIJOU who prioritize animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. Work closely with us to forecast demand, secure consistent inventory, and adapt to any seasonal fluctuations in availability.

How can I leverage the story behind naturally pastured chickens to create engaging content for my marketing campaigns?

Share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the farms where the chickens are raised, showcasing the dedication of farmers to ethical and sustainable agriculture. Incorporate storytelling elements into your marketing materials to evoke emotions and connect with consumers on a deeper level.

What are some potential challenges or obstacles I may encounter when promoting naturally pastured chickens in my culinary offerings?

Educating consumers about the value of naturally pastured chickens and dispelling misconceptions about their cost and availability can be a significant challenge. Additionally, ensuring consistency in quality and supply chain logistics may require ongoing communication and collaboration with us. However, overcoming these challenges can ultimately strengthen your brand's reputation and credibility within the market.

Would I be considered, if I want to do this as a Home Business?
Yes, do contact us directly so we can discuss how we can assist you to get started. 

1. Nutritional Benefits: Eggs and meat from naturally pastured chickens are typically higher in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals compared to eggs and meat from conventionally raised chickens. These nutrients can support the nutritional needs of new mothers during the postpartum period.

2. Improved Flavour and Quality: Naturally pastured chickens are known for their superior flavor and quality, as the birds have access to a diverse diet of grass, insects, and other natural foods. This can make meals more enjoyable for new mothers, encouraging them to consume nutritious foods.

3. Hormone-Free and Antibiotic-Free: Our naturally Pastured chickens are raised without the use of hormones or antibiotics, which can be important considerations for new mothers who are concerned about potential chemical exposures during breastfeeding.

4. Ethical Considerations: Pastured poultry farming prioritizes animal welfare, allowing chickens to forage freely outdoors and exhibit natural behaviours such as foraging and dust bathing. Confinement homes may choose to support ethical farming practices that align with their values and principles.

5. Environmental Sustainability: Supporting pastured poultry farming promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution. Pastured chickens are typically raised in more sustainable farming systems that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience.

6. Local Sourcing: Confinement homes may choose to source eggs and meats from Hijou, a local farm who raise naturally pastured chickens, supporting small-scale and family-owned businesses within the community. This helps to stimulate economic activity and build stronger local food systems.

Overall, using naturally pastured chickens for new mothers in confinement homes can provide nutritional benefits, improve flavor and quality, support ethical farming practices, promote environmental sustainability, and contribute to the local economy. These considerations may make pastured poultry products a preferred choice for providing nourishing meals to new mothers during their postpartum recovery.

What is Slow Food?

Slow Food is a global grassroots organization that advocates for a more sustainable and ethical approach to food production, consumption, and enjoyment.

When was Slow Food founded?

Slow Food was founded in Italy in 1986.

What are the core principles of Slow Food?

The core principles of Slow Food are "good," "clean," and "fair," which advocate for high-quality, environmentally sustainable, and socially just food systems.

How does Slow Food promote its principles?

Slow Food promotes its principles through various initiatives, including educational campaigns, events such as farmers' markets and food festivals, and advocacy for policy changes.

What is the Ark of Taste?

The Ark of Taste is a Slow Food initiative that aims to preserve and promote endangered traditional food products from around the world, including heirloom varieties of fruits, vegetables, and heritage breeds of livestock.

How does Slow Food support local food producers?

Slow Food supports local food producers by promoting direct relationships between producers and consumers, advocating for fair compensation and working conditions, and celebrating local food cultures and traditions.

What are some examples of Slow Food events and activities?

Slow Food organizes events such as Terra Madre, an international gathering of food producers and activists, as well as farmers' markets, food festivals, and educational workshops at the local level.

How does Slow Food address issues of food sovereignty and food justice?

Slow Food advocates for food sovereignty by supporting communities' rights to control their own food systems and resources. It also promotes food justice by advocating for fair wages and working conditions for food workers and access to healthy, culturally appropriate food for all.

Is Slow Food a global organization?

Yes, Slow Food is a global organization with chapters and members in over 160 countries around the world.

How can individuals get involved with Slow Food?

Individuals can get involved with Slow Food by becoming members, participating in local chapters and events, supporting local food producers, and advocating for sustainable and ethical food systems in their communities.