Shop with a conscience

Shop with a conscience

There is not a sow crate in sight at the Murrellen pig farm in Hokitika and the radio’s on to reduce the pigs’ stress levels.

“You can actually buy pork with a clear conscience,” says Raould Ericson from Petrini. “Murrellen pork products are available at Petrini because we believe it’s important to stock products that meet our customers’ desire for ethical and environmentally friendly farming methods.”

Ericson was reacting to comments by the Minister of Agriculture David Carter today that the local pork industry needs to move faster to address consumer concerns around pig farming in New Zealand.

The industry has been in crisis since entertainer Mike King appeared on a current affairs television show highlighting animal welfare issues in pig farming.

“Consumers have genuine fears and these affect purchasing decisions,” says Ericson. “They want to know where their meat is coming from and that it’s being farmed ethically.

“Purchasing from a delicatessen, such as Petrini, can offer peace of mind. We only source product from local producers that we handpick.

“It’s also surprisingly affordable. Several of our Murrellen pork products are the same price or only slightly more expensive than similar products being sold in a nearby supermarket. A couple of products were even cheaper.

“On average it costs only 10 percent more to shop with a conscience so you have to ask yourself why you wouldn’t.”

Murrellen, a Canterbury pork producer, was the first recipient of a “gate to plate” product guarantee programme and owner Colin Battersby says the farm’s philosophy is “a happy pig produces good pork”.

“Our pigs are born outside and once weaned live in barns with straw-covered floors. Our aim is to keep them as stress-free as possible which is why the radio is on, it cuts out the outside noise and has a soothing effect.”

“Basically it comes down to quality and shopping where you know you can be certain of what’s in your food,” says Ericson. “Better quality food also tastes better.”

Petrini is located at 9 Humphreys Drive, Ferrymead. The delicatessen is open10am to 6:30pm Tuesday to Sunday and the restaurant is open from noon to late Wednesday to Sunday. www.petrini.co.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media