The Importance of Prepared Foods — Episode 3

Let’s talk about the lasagna in your freezer, the bacon and corn chowder, or that chicken noodle soup you picked up from the farm store last week.

You might not think much about how those items end up on our shelves, but the truth is, they play a huge role in how we run Central Park Farms.

In this week’s podcast episode, I’m talking about the value of prepared foods on a small farm like ours. From reducing waste to supporting whole-animal use, these meals are more than just a convenience (though they are great on a busy weeknight).

Here’s why they matter:

• When Jay breaks down whole chickens, we’re left with backs, frames, and sometimes "ugly cuts" that still deserve to be used.

• Prepared foods let us turn those pieces into broths, soups, and pot pies, so nothing is wasted.

• It helps us keep prices more stable across the board.

• It supports our goal of being responsible stewards of every animal we raise.

So next time you grab a ready-made meal from the freezer, know that it’s part of something bigger.