How a Pro-American Couple Transformed Their Lives Through Farming and Healthy Living

How a Pro-American Couple Transformed Their Lives Through Farming and Healthy Living

Dana and Lauren Cavalea made an unexpected life-changing decision in 2020 while visiting family on Long Island, New York. The couple, originally from Florida, impulsively purchased a sprawling 180-acre farm. Their journey can be described as a personal experiment driven by the unusual circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Dana Cavalea, the property’s allure was undeniable. He reflected on their initial visit, stating that the current owners graciously guided them through a captivating tour, which ultimately led to their decision to buy the land. Fast forward to today, the Cavaleas have successfully operated Freedom Farms in Greene, New York for five years.

A Commitment to Healthy and Sustainable Farming

Freedom Farms focuses on producing premium, MRNA vaccine-free beef from grass-fed and grass-finished cattle, all without added hormones. This commitment reflects their dedication to health and sustainability. Dana emphasized their patriotic values by stating, “We’re pro-American. We’re very patriotic. We want to bring farm-raised meats to Americans nationwide.”

This business venture aligns with the growing Make America Healthy Again movement that encourages individuals to seek healthier lifestyles. As a result, the Cavaleas have witnessed a surge in customers eager to connect with their food sources. Dana remarked on the societal shift towards local farming, explaining how many people are increasingly concerned about food origins.

Raising Awareness About Food Quality

Since starting their farm, the couple has noted significant improvements in meat quality. Dana described the remarkable differences they discovered in color, flavor, and overall taste. He posed a thought-provoking question: “What have we been eating all these years?” This realization has compelled them to advocate for better food quality.

Lauren echoed these sentiments, expressing their satisfaction with the food they are now raising. She highlighted how raising their own meat has allowed them to feel healthier and more connected to the land.

Challenges in the Farming Industry

Freedom Farms is home to a variety of livestock, including chickens, pigs, and 180 heads of cattle. Dana mentioned that they collaborate with like-minded farmers who share their pro-America viewpoints. They believe that reducing regulations can be beneficial for farmers. Dana noted that when they first began, they faced significant obstacles, including lengthy waiting lists for USDA-approved slaughterhouses.

These challenges have pushed them to seek custom butchers, but it limited them to selling their products only within New York. Dana voiced a strong opinion regarding the need for regulatory changes, stating, “Lifting some of the regulations and allowing farmers to farm in a more natural way would be a great thing.”

Shifting Trends in Food Preparation

Recent trends in the food industry indicate a growing awareness among consumers regarding ingredient sourcing, especially concerning cooking oils. Dana pointed out that many fast-food chains and restaurants are transitioning from using seed oils to healthier alternatives like beef tallow. This shift responds to advocates of the Make America Healthy Again initiative who discourage the consumption of seed oils.

He mentioned, “If you really just look at them, think about them, study them, they can’t be good for you.” He further elaborated on the benefits of using raw materials like tallow, which is derived from suet, the fat surrounding a cow’s kidney, emphasizing how consumers can use it to create clean cooking oils.

A Farm in High Demand

While sharing their experiences, Lauren noted the incredible demand for their products. She stated that they often cannot keep their stock available to meet public interest. Consumers are increasingly looking to return to traditional cooking fats like lard and tallow, seeking reassurance in the purity of their cooking ingredients. “People want to have the mental security of knowing what they are cooking with,” she said, emphasizing the importance of wholesome and natural byproducts.

Ironically, despite their knowledge of these cooking methods, Lauren admitted they have yet to attempt cooking with tallow themselves because it sells out so quickly. She humorously likened their situation to that of a barber always needing a haircut, illustrating the high demand for their farm products.

Community Engagement through Freedom Fest

Every year, Freedom Farms hosts a community event known as Freedom Fest, inviting locals to participate in a fun-filled day of activities. The upcoming event is set for September 14 and will feature a festive pig roast, BBQ, live music, rides, and various games. This initiative fosters a sense of community and emphasizes the importance of locally-sourced food.

Through their journey from city residents to dedicated farmers, Dana and Lauren Cavalea have successfully woven their values into their work. They strive to inspire others about healthy, sustainable food options while celebrating the importance of American farming practices. With their unwavering passion for their craft, they continue to welcome the community into their farm, creating connections that are vital for a healthy future.