As summer heats up, the forecast for the grilling season is an abundance of local food from the farmers market. When it comes to making responsible choices about proteins, there’s plenty to consider in terms of animal welfare and sustainability labels. For Rian and Jenine Rinn, sourcing protein that was raised for the good of the land, the animal, and the eater is at the heart of their local butcher shop, Sonoma County Meat Company.
“That’s why everything is so good,” says Litten Alley, who manages their wholesale and farmers market presence. “The ranchers take great care of their animals. Everything is pasture raised, grass fed. It’s just the right way to do it.” Since 2014, Sonoma County Meat Company takes pride in their role in the local economy, bolstering the viability of small family ranches and connecting community members with high quality meats.