there's a better way: factory vs. farm at #ChipotleCultivate

I recently attended Chipotle Cultivate in Phoenix, the first stop in the 2015 event schedule for Chipotle. This family-friendly, dog-friendly event is full of awesome music, to-die-for food, and interactive educational exhibits. Since I didn't bring my family or my pooch, I enjoyed the company of one of my best gal-pals and stalked strangers with dogs for my canine fix.

Some of the strangers I stalked at Chipotle Cultivate. 

We enjoyed delicious local food and beverage, watched demos from world-renowned chefs, and listened to killer bands. 

To me, one of the most impactful elements of the festival was the Factory vs. Farm exhibit. I've talked before about Chipotle's stellar ethics when it comes to the way their food is humanely raised, most recently highlighting the absence of carnitas in their restaurants. The Factory vs. Farm exhibit illustrated exactly why Chipotle has such high standards for their pork.

It's eye-opening to see such a warning when you are walking into an exhibit that will tell you the difference between factory-raised pork and farm-raised pork. Where does your food come from?

As we filed into the cramped quarters of the exhibit, we saw the conditions in which factory-raised pigs are forced to live. We not only learned about their deplorable environments, but about their health. For example the amount of antibiotics used in pork farming quadruples human antibiotic use in the U.S. When we eat conventionally-raised pork, that is passed on to us.

We viewed the conditions that factory-raised pigs face and learned some shocking facts.

The exhibit housed some intense visuals and films and literature addressing how bad things are for factory-raised pigs. There's just nothing good about supporting that industry. From the mistreatment of the animals to the amount of stress hormones and antibiotics that are passed on to us in the meat, conventionally-raised pork is not something we should consume.

Thankfully, Chipotle has found a better way.

Upon exiting the Factory vs. Farm exhibit, we had the opportunity to discuss the industry with one of Chipotle's own pork suppliers. He answered questions about raising pigs responsibly and spoke to people one-on-one about the importance of sustainable farming practices.

Responsible hog farming is the way.

I'm not quite sure where other than Chipotle Cultivate you could have such a full day. Learning and fun, all rolled into one, not to mention, you can bring your pooch! I've heard from Chipotle that the Phoenix Cultivate Festival was such a success, that it will be returning in 2016. I can't wait!

Chipotle Cultivate will be in Kansas City on July 18th and in Minneapolis on August 22nd.

Did you attend Chipotle Cultivate in Phoenix? Will you attend on Kansas City or Minneapolis? What are your thoughts on factory-raised vs. farm-raised pork?

RELATED READING

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come have a blast with me at #ChipotleCultivate

join us to help the aspca® fight dog fighting and enter our #GetTough #giveaway

Did you know that April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month? There are all sorts of ways we humans exhibit animal cruelty, but one of the worst is dog fighting. What makes me most mad about dog fighting is the fact that it's simply for "fun." Animals are tortured repeatedly–both psychologically and physically–for the entertainment and monetary folly of twisted individuals. Please join me in helping the ASPCA® with their #GetTough Movement in time for National Dog Fighting Awareness Day (NDFAD) on April 8th, 2015 and enter our #GetTough Giveaway.

By joining us to help the ASPCA #GetTough on Dog Fighting, you support them as they work to eradicate dog fighting by assisting in raids and rescues alongside law enforcement agencies and by advocating for stronger laws and sentencing for those involved in dog fighting.

The ASPCA has made it simple for us to help:

1. Get the toolkit. Fill out a simple form on the ASPCA web site to get your FREE #GetTough toolkit, which includes a #GetTough micro-poster and images to post on social media. There is also a printable poster, so you can take a selfie with your pooch to help spread the word.

2. Take action. Right there on that very same page, you can click to sign the ASPCA's petition to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), asking it to prosecute dog fighters with greater frequency in 2015 and beyond.

3. Learn more. The ASPCA's Fight Cruelty section has a wealth of information about their work to end dog fighting. You can read about recent dog fighting raids and rescues as well as learn about breed-specific legislation.

But before you go, enter our #GetTough Giveaway for your chance to win:

• No One Wins in a Dog Fight t-shirt

• ASPCA frisbee

• #GetTough on dog fighting sticker

• ASPCA bumper sticker

• Fight Cruelty wrist band

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SUPPORT THE ASPCA'S #GETTOUGH ON DOG FIGHTING CAMPAIGN BY CLICKING HERE.

What are your thoughts on dog fighting?

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come have a blast with me at #ChipotleCultivate and enter our #giveaway

When my husband, who works for Chipotle, told me that the Chipotle Cultivate Festival was coming to the Phoenix area, I immediately called a couple of my closest gal pals and told them to mark their calendars. To make matters more exciting, a few weeks later I was invited to attend the local media preview event so that I could learn more about and help spread the word about the food, chefs, and artisans who would anchor the festival. What an opportunity!

So what exactly is the Chipotle Cultivate Festival? It's all about food, ideas, and music. Chipotle describes it as "a celebration of food that is responsibly raised, skillfully prepared, and delightfully enjoyed." They ask that we join them on their "journey toward a world of more sustainable, wholesome, and delicious food." And to sweeten the deal? It's completely FREE to attend. The whole idea is to get people thinking and talking about food and food issues and how to create a more sustainable future.

Check out the recap of last year's festival:

Since I focus on family wellness as it relates to animals, the fact that Chipotle serves sustainably raised meats, vegetarian and vegan options, and sources their produce locally whenever possible is very important to me. The knowledge to be gained at the Cultivate Festival is invaluable. Plus, it looks like one hell of a party. 

At the media preview event, I had the opportunity to listen to Scott Robinson, Chipotle's National Events Manager, talk about the Cultivate Festival. This is the festival's fifth year and Phoenix is the seventh city to house the festival. Just like they didn't know how the first Chipotle in Denver, CO, would do, they had no idea how successful the festival would be. We're super lucky that Phoenix is in the lineup this year. 

What can we expect to do at the phoenix cultivate?

ROCK OUT. Check out the killer music lineup at the music stage, composed of local and national acts: Jared & The Mill, Magic Man, MS MR, Bleachers, Twenty One Pilots, and DJ Christoper Golub, the DJ of Chipotle. 

LEARN. We'll be able to explore five exhibits throughout the festival, which will focus on sustainable food practices, including an exhibit explaining how to make Chipotle's guacamole, the reality of processed foods, and an experience showing the conditions of factory-raised pigs compared to those that are responsibly raised. Each exhibit will give you a stamp for attending, and if you check out at least four exhibits, you'll earn a card for a free burrito, bowl, tacos, or salad + IZZE™ at any Chipotle. Sweet! 

PLAY. Cultivate is a family-friendly event. Take the kiddos to the Kids' Zone that has snacks and fun activities. 

CHEF DEMOS. Live and in person? Yes, please. Chipotle says "superior ingredients deserve excellent preparation. Watch as these expert chefs and stars of the culinary world prepare a variety of dishes in our on-site kitchens. They'll demonstrate different cooking techniques as well as share their knowledge and love of working with local farms and suppliers." These superstar chefs include Joshua Herbert, Owner/Executive Chef of Posh, Chris Schlattman, Executive Chef of The Upton, Charleen Badman, Owner/Chef at FNB, Richard Blais, Restaurateur/Chef/Author and winner of Top Chef: All Stars, and Amanda Freitag, Owner/Chef at Empire Diner.

I was excited to have the opportunity to meet local Executive Chef Chris Schlattman of The Upton in Scottsdale, where the preview event was held. We tasted his cuisine, which was divine and beautiful, yet casual and completely approachable. He said that Chipotle and The Upton are alike because they are "fuss free" and use "great, simple ingredients." I would have to agree. 

GRUB. Whether you want to sample food and beverage or indulge in a full meal (or both), there is something for everyone. Since I plan on being there for the duration of the festival, my goal is to do it all. The Artisans' Hall will be a highlight. We'll get to try delicious samplings from an amazing collection of artisanal Arizona food. The Food Tents will be manned by Chipotle's chefs and top team members. The chefs have developed new recipes just for Cultivate. Along with the Chipotle-inspired dishes, select items from ShopHouse, Chipotle's new Southeast Asian concept, will be served. To wash it down, you'll find the Tasting Hall, where you can sample some of the best craft brews in the region or taste some top-quality sustainable wines, or go for a full glass, which are all reasonably priced.

At the preview event, I had the privilege of meeting some of the local artisans who will be set up at the Artisans' Hall and the Tasting Hall during Cultivate, and I had the chance to try their food and beverages. I didn't meet a person or sample I didn't like. Here are the highlights:

CARTEL COFFEE LAB Never in my life have I known such intricacies. I tried the recommended "cold brew, " which Jules described accurately as "fruit-forward." Amazing. Like no cup of Joe I've ever had. All of their coffee is carefully sourced, and they also have local beers on tap. 

SONORAN BREWING COMPANY They partnered with Chipotle to create a traditional Saison called "Cultivate Farmhouse Ale," brewed with local Arizona Honey, Lemons, and Limes. And, yes, it was just as yummy as it sounds. 

SUPER CHUNK Small-batch handcrafted sweets & treats with a modernized, unique twist. They use botanical sugars and essential oils. They sent me home with some crazy fun cookies and taffy pulled right there in house (shame I had to share with the littles) and this insane bag of white cheddar truffle popcorn (which–thank goodness–was a bit strong for the children, and my hubby never knew it was in the house). If I ever encounter it again, all bets are off. Plus, owners Sergio and Country were super fun to talk to. Sergio told me they are known for their black licorice. When I made a face, he said, it's well-known as "black licorice for people who don't like black licorice." I trust him enough to try it.

SWEET REPUBLIC The perfect definition of simplicity, I had the opportunity to taste their salted butter caramel ice cream, which was so perfectly balanced. Their ice cream is handcrafted in small batches, and their shop menu features artisan ice cream, insane-sounding sundaes and simple, yet unique milkshakes. 

TRACY DEMPSEY ORIGINALS Tracy was as much of a delight as her deserts. As I was devouring her creation, my brain checked out, so I asked her more than a handful of times what all I was consuming. She was totally cool about it. Her beautiful and delicious creation was lemon creme with coconut tapioca, roasted pineapple compote, berries, and basil syrup.

what now?

If you haven't gathered, I'm super pumped to enjoy even more at the Chipotle Cultivate Festival. I can't wait to share the time and experience with friends, visit my hubby as he heads-up the ever-popular taco tent, and basically gorge my mind and body on everything. All this, and we can be sure that the consumables are sourced responsibly, which is the one takeaway I want you to know. It is possible to have a carefree blast and be responsible at the same time.

I can't wait. 

Is the Cultivate Festival coming to your 'hood?

PHOENIX                                APRIL 18 AT WESTWORLD SCOTTSDALE

KANSAS CITY                        JULY 18 AT PENN VALLEY PARK

MINNEAPOLIS                       AUGUST 22 AT LORING PARK

So please join me and my pals on April 18 from 11 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Westworld of Scottsdale. I can't wait to see you there! Which part of the festival are you most pumped for?

Are you pumped for this giveaway? Please enter for your chance to win 10 Chipotle Burrito Bucks, each one of which will get you a burrito, burrito bowl, salad, or order of tacos. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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animal farm foundation and the majority project

Since 1985, Animal Farm Foundation has been working to secure equal treatment and opportunity for "pit bull" dogs. They are a not-for-profit organization that provides the following programs and services:

• makes grants to secure equal treatment and opportunity for "pit bull" dogs

• rescues, trains, re-homes "pit bull" dogs through their New York shelter

• provides consulting services for sheltering professionals on dog evaluation, training, enrichment, adoption strategies, public relations, and communications

• offers no-cost, hands-on internships to shelter professionals and volunteers

• offers lectures and presentations at conferences, shelters, universities, and community events

• hosts visitors of all ages and interests to meet the dogs and experience the mission firsthand

• maintains an extensive historical collection of advertising, art, photographs, books, and magazines featuring "pit bull" dogs

• produces and distributes free positive-image materials that celebrate "pit bull" dogs

So what, exactly, is a "pit bull" dog? Originally, the term meant to include a specific breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier. Over time, however, these dogs came to include dogs who were not necessarily pure bred American Pit Bull Terriers. Animal Farm Foundation explains that "pit bull" is not a breed or breed mix, but an ever-expanding group that includes whatever an animal control officer, shelter worker, dog trainer, politician, dog owner, police officer or newspaper says it is." Animal Farm Foundation saw that these dogs needed help because they are the most likely to be discriminated against.

Why do "pit bull" dogs have such a bad reputation? Prior to the 1980s, "pit bulls" were considered a treasured, gentle breed. There were very few reports of attacks or violent behavior, and the dogs were often associated with children, commonly appearing in film, television, and serving as mascots for popular brands. So what happened? Although it is illegal in all fifty states, dog  fighting became popular in the mid-1980s, and the "pit bull" became the dog of choice. "Pit bull" attacks rose because popularity of the breed rose and more and more badly trained dogs raised by backyard breeders began to crank out dogs in order to cash in on the trend. Irresponsible human behavior–not canine behavior–is the root of the problem.

What is breed-specific legislation? Breed-specific legislation is a law or set of laws passed against a specific breed of dog. Breed-specific legislation has not proven to be effective in reducing the number of dog attacks in any particular region because it targets the animal and not the real problem, irresponsible dog owners. Some cities and counties still have breed-specific laws on the books, and some are in the stages of having them passed, while some are overturning them. There is a lot of confusion surrounding these discriminatory laws.

What is The Majority Project? The perception that only criminals and violent people want "pit bull" dogs is not based on fact. In reality, the majority of people who own these canines are normal, everyday individuals and families–responsible pet owners. Animal Farm Foundation's The Majority Project seeks to "put an accurate face to the average 'pit bull' dog owner, so that stereotypes about 'pit bull' dog owners can no longer be used as justification for discriminatory shelter policies and legislation." "Pit bull" dog owners are pictured with their canine companions and a sign describing who they are, stating "I am the majority." I've been seeing these pictures pop up all over the place, and I am always impacted by them, as I imagine others are, too. 

Here are a few recent examples:

And my submission: 

Would you like to join The Majority Project and submit your photo? You may do so by clicking here.

Click here to go to The Majority Project web site.

Click here to to to the Animal Farm Foundation web site.

Photos courtesy of The Majority Project.

why can't cats be vegan?

I've written before about the vegan lifestyle for humans and even for dogs, but what about cats?

A vegan diet does not work for cats because cats are obligate carnivores. What is the difference between a carnivore and an obligate carnivore? A carnivore is an animal who eats meat, although meat may not be required for survival, and other protein sources can provide the nutrients the body needs. Cats, however, being obligate carnivores, must have meat in order to survive. They can't digest or will not eat other sources of protein, nor do other sources of protein contain the nutrients they require.

What is it about meat that is necessary for cats?

Meat is a source of taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid which is important to metabolize fats. Wikipedia details the specifics:

aurine has many fundamental biological roles, such as conjugation of bile acids, anti oxidation, osmoregulation, membrane stabilization, and modulation of calcium signaling. It is essential for cardiovascular function, and development and function of skeletal muscle, the retina, and the central nervous system...Taurine occurs naturally in fish and meat...(it) is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine and in the tissues of many animals, including humans.

Cats are not one of these animals. Because cats do not naturally produce taurine and it is vital for survival, that makes cats obligate carnivores.

Since plant-based foods don't provide the nutrients cats require and because cats can't digest plant-based foods well, cats must eat meat. Taurine is the main amino acid that is missing in plant-based proteins, but cats require it. Taurine deficiency causes serious medical problems in cats, including blindness and cardiovascular disease. These conditions can happen in a matter of days.

But what about supplements? Dr. Becker of healthypets.mercola.com illustrates why this isn't a good idea: "Some cat owners believe that they can feed their pet a vegetarian or vegan diet, and add a taurine supplement. In my opinion, this is the equivalent of eating nothing but iceberg lettuce and taking a synthetic multivitamin. That vitamin can't possibly make up for all the nutrients missing from an iceberg lettuce-only diet."

The quality of the meat a feline parent feeds his cat is also important. Low quality kitty chow that uses sub-standard protein "parts" are basically indigestible, as are plant-based sources of proteins, which can be found in some cat foods as fillers. 

Becker expands: "Whereas plant-eating omnivores and herbivores have slower digestion, food passes quickly (within hours) through the GI tract of an obligate carnivore. That's why your kitty is designed to eat relatively small amounts of highly digestible, energy-packed food that provides optimal levels of vitamins, minerals and micronutrients. In other words, animal meat."

People who don't want to feed meat to their pets can consider pets who thrive on a vegetarian diet such as rabbits, guinea pigs, or tortoises. Though I can fully support a person choosing a vegan diet and have eaten that way, myself, I believe it is unethical to commit to care for an animal and then not provide that animal with the nutrition or environment that their species requires. Cats must be provided with a high-quality meat-based diet.