Poultry farming is a major industry, and just like any other profitable sector, innovation is a major pursuit. That was the topic of this episode of From the Ground Up, where host John Boitnott sat down with Mike Charles, a sixth-generation poultry farmer leading La Belle Patrimoine. During their conversation, they discuss the industry and the company’s dedication to sustainability, animal welfare, and exceptional quality.
La Belle Patrimoine originated from Mike’s desire to elevate poultry farming. That desire can be seen first in the company’s unique breed of chickens sourced from the esteemed Labelle Rouge program in France. Celebrated for their robust health and exceptional quality, these chickens have played a major role in earning La Belle Patrimoine a spot as an All-Star Supplier of the Year by Whole Foods Market — one of only 16 nationwide.
Mike speaks highly of the partnership between La Belle Patrimoine and Whole Foods, which has bolstered the agricultural community in Pennsylvania by fostering a mutually beneficial relationship focused on growth and quality.
“I can’t say enough about the partnership, about how great they have been to work with,” says Mike. “I tip my hat to Whole Foods and the support they provided.”
Further establishing its commitment to environmental and animal stewardship, La Belle Patrimoine has been awarded the regeneratively raised status by the USDA. This designation is rare in the industry, earned through a dedication to practices that enrich the soil, conserve biodiversity, and ensure the health of the land for future generations.
Techniques such as planting cover crops, utilizing no-till farming, and maintaining tree-lined pastures are integral to their operations, reflecting a deep respect for nature that transcends typical farming practices.
“We’re proud to be recognized for it. However, we’re not really changing anything we’re doing,” says Mike. While proud of the recognition, it is something the company earned by doing what came naturally as part of their heritage.
Sustainable and humane treatment of poultry is part of the core principles at La Belle Patrimoine. It enhances everything they do and comes with numerous benefits, including the flavor and texture of their chickens, which benefit from a slow growth process. The farm further adheres to rigorous animal welfare standards, achieving a Level Four certification from the Global Animal Partnership.
The daily life on the farm is structured around the needs and health of the chickens. Starting at dawn, farmers ensure that the chickens have access to fresh water and feed, and that their living conditions are safe and comfortable. The birds are free to roam in large pastures or retreat to shelters as they please, promoting a stress-free environment that fosters healthy growth.
Innovation is also key to the farm’s operations. While embracing its heritage of old-world farming techniques, La Belle Patrimoine incorporates modern technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability, from advancements in farm management systems to practices that optimize the health and productivity of the flock without compromising their well-being.
Looking forward, Mike is excited about expanding the company’s sustainable practices and product line. Initiatives like whole chicken utilization — transforming every part of the chicken into valuable products such as ground meat, bone broth, and even pet food — are steps towards minimizing waste and maximizing resource use.
As La Belle Patrimoine moves forward, it remains committed to its roots while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable agriculture. Mike and his team at La Belle Patrimoine are changing what it means to lead in the poultry industry, setting a benchmark for others in the field to aspire to. But what more would one expect from the man people call the “Chicken Whisperer?”
