The Farmstead Butcher

The Farmstead Butcher began producing pasture raised livestock and poultry on their small farm, Rettland Farm, for sale directly to consumers in 2007. A lack of adequate meat processing services in the region combined with their long-held interest in making unique, artisanal meat products led them down the path of becoming meat processors, in addition to livestock farmers.

As a result, The Farmstead Butcher was born in 2017, on the premises of Rettland Farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Since opening, they have proudly become known for creating “Craft Meat and More!”—by using craftsmanship, time honored techniques and the best meats they can source to make products that are unique, delicious, and fun!

At The Farmstead Butcher, farmer Beau Ramsburg and his team believe in the long term benefits of sustainable and regenerative agricultural production. They work to support production practices that promote soil health, preserve water and air quality, and help to minimize or even mitigate climate change. Of equal importance to them as meat processors is animal welfare. They recognize and respect the sacrifice required of animals that become our food, and therefore place a high value on their treatment before that happens.

To support these values, Farmstead Butcher require the following of all of the animals that are used in the production of our meats:

• No antibiotic or synthetic growth promoter use of any kind for any animal.
• Pasture based production, for all cattle, sheep, and goats, with a preference for 100% grassfed and grass-finished animals.
• Pasture based production for meat chickens and turkeys harvested from April-December, with supplemental forage and access to direct sunlight and natural ventilation during other months of the year.
• Access to direct sunlight and natural ventilation for pigs, in deep bedded housing to provide the opportunity to root and dig. Pastured production is preferred, but only if soil and water quality aren’t negatively impacted. No slatted floors, liquid manure systems, or gestation/lactation crates are used.