How to know if a farmer can be trusted

In today’s world of misleading food labels, targeted marketing, stock photography, and conflicting views about what’s actually healthy, how can you tell if a farmer is really living up to what they boast?

You know how it goes. You visit a farm’s website. You see pictures of happy animals and happy workers. Of course they’re in a picturesque landscape. You read about how wonderful and healthy their products are. If the price is right and delivery/pickup is convenient, you’ll probably go for it. But… how do you really know if the farmer can be trusted?

Here are some ways to find out if a farmer can be trusted:

1-- Ask questions. Lots of questions. Pointed questions. A trusted farmer will answer, likely with more details than you requested.

2-- Read reviews. A trusted farmer will have lots of customers who love them. These customers have likely been eating his food for a long time, have spoken with the farmer personally, and have maybe even visited the farm. You can read our Google reviews here.

3-- Talk to the farmer. So much can be gleaned through a phone or in person conversation. Attitude, mood, and depth of knowledge are hard to really know through type but can easily be perceived through a one on one conversation. Say hi, give feedback about a product, or ask a question. You can call our farmer at 717.786.7895. Although he’ll likely be out working in the field, he’s usually great about getting back to you quickly.

4-- Learn hands on about farming and food processing. Maybe you can visit a local farm or farm museum. Or maybe you sign up for a workshop about yogurt making. Or, if you’re really adventurous, work for a farm! 

5-- Visit the farm. This is hands down the most important one. By visiting the farm, you can see if the farmer is actually doing what he says. You can see the animals in their true condition. You can see how clean the facilities are. 

And lucky you. I do have a way for you to accomplish #1, #3, #4, and #5 all in one day!

Our annual Farm Day event is coming up on Saturday, September 14. It will be on the farm in Quarryville, PA. In my opinion, it’s worth the trip.

The farmer will provide a nutrient dense lunch, give wagon and pony rides, let you milk a cow, help you give a calf a bottle, give you feed for the chickens, and give you a farm tour. And, if you’re lucky, maybe a calf will even suck your fingers. 

Farm Day is a fun day for the whole family. Kids are more than welcome. Learn more and buy tickets here.

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*Update 10/9/25: Since this post was written, a lot has changed on the farm! Farmer Aaron doesn't do much farming anymore. Instead, he worked closely with his growers (99% of them are Amish) to produce the food. He's doing what farmers don't want to do - the logistics of getting the food from the farm all the way to you!