<b>By DEBORAH BEHRENDS<br>
Illinois Correspondent</b> </p><p> MAPLE PARK, Ill. — They have a website and do business via phone and e-mail, but the Schramer family still believes many old-fashioned ways are the best.<br>
Owners of Farm Direct Black Angus, Mark and Linda Schramer started raising Black Angus when their son and three daughters were younger, showing them in 4-H, and selling to a few close neighbors. <br>
About five years ago, they realized they could offer a larger clientele something special – hormone-free, humanely-raised meat that contains no artificial color, preservatives or flavorings.
They started selling their products at area farmers’ markets and, within the past year, added the store, open on Saturdays, at the farm.<br>
Born and raised on Kane County cattle farms themselves, the Schramers have learned consumers like knowing where their food is raised.<br>
“We just never knew how many people were looking for good beef. Years ago, everyone used to have a farm connection, but those days are gone,” Linda said.<br>
“The fact that the cattle are grown locally is important,” said Mark.
Linda said even though their meat is more expensive than the mass-produced items found in supermarkets, young families seem to appreciate the more natural products they offer.<br>
“So many young parents are just afraid of their kids developing allergies from the hormones and artificial additives,” she said.
Their website touts the fact that the cattle are not mass-produced at Farm Direct: “Order today and you are reserving an animal in our current herd that will be ready within weeks. We’re a small farm with a big commitment to our animals and our customers.<br>
“We don’t have processed inventory; we’re raising them as you read this. Within a few days, we’ll tell you when we’ll deliver your order.”<br>
The farm is home to only about 100 head at a time, and the Schramers also grow about 1,100 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat. Farm Direct Black Angus can be reached at 877-FOR-FDBA (367-3322) or online at www.farmdirectblackangus.com |
