A feature in the UK Guardian introduces us to Sheepdrove Organic Farm, run by Peter Kindersley, one of the entrepreneurs behind Dorling Kindersley -- publishers of very cool illustrated reference books. Lots of inspiring stuff here about Mr. Kindersley's farm (they supply high-end UK grocer Waitrose), but of particular interest: he has developed a new steam-based process for removing feathers from chickens. This approach significantly reduces bacterial contamination in comparison to the industry-standard "scalding tank" method. And yes, even organically-raised chickens are dipped in scalding tanks.
Also, it was great to hear that Sheepdrove Farm built an abattoir on the premises in order to minimize stress on the animals and the environment; the animals would otherwise need to be transported to an off-site processing facility. Very sensible idea. Link: Sheepdrove Organic Farm.
