TME Farms: Feed

• Pig: local grain & hay

• Cow: local grain & ruffage (hay, alfalfa, straw)

• Chicken: local grain & insects, 15% protein, calcium and various grains (laying hens), locally-sourced blend of grains with specific mineral content (meat birds)

Known & locally sourced feed supports other local businesses but can be more expensive.

Commercial: Feed

• Rely on grain^1,2

Less transparency regarding food sources and pesticide use but usually more cost effective.

TME Farms: Housing

• Kept outside in unheated barns with straw bedding

• Fences to deter predators

Animals are able to graze and roam, but more space is needed.

Commercial: Housing

• Pig: sow stalls, finisher pens¹

• Cow: feedlots¹

• Chicken: litter systems in large barns^1,3

Increases production efficiency, may result in crowded living conditions.

TME Farms: Transportation

• 100% of customers within a 2 hr drive

• Animals transported less than 48km to butcher

Fresh products reach customer quickly with minimal carbon emissions.

Commercial: Transportation

• Intricate multistage transportation system⁴

• Global customer base

Larger area of product distribution and increased employment opportunity.

TME Farms: Processing

• No added hormones, chemicals, antibiotics

• All animals processed and packaged in Strome, Forestburg or Strathcona County

Less preservatives and use of biodegradable paper packaging.

Commercial: Processing

• Cows: brine injection, MAP (modified atmospheric packaging)⁵, occasionally growth hormone used

• Pigs: antimicrobial agents, preservation of red meat colour through myoglobin blooming nitrosodisulfonate agent⁶

• Chicken: crowded factories have potential for cross contamination⁷

Longer shelf life through the use of preservation agents, plastic and styrofoam packaging.