The Pasture-Fed Livestock Association (PFLA) is a grassroots community interest company (c.i.c) comprising of farmers, butchers, academics and other people who have a general interest in developing the potential of pasture in the UK. Membership is open to anyone wishing to help promote the virtues pastureland, the livestock it supports and the produce we derive from it.
Since its establishment in March 2011 the PFLA has created the Pastoral brand to provide a distinct identity for ruminant livestock reared purely and simply upon pasture. This is supported by a set of production standards which clearly define what exactly is meant by ‘pasture’.
The growing communities of approved pasture-fed livestock farmers are working with retailers and other members of the supply chain to produce and market quality pasture-fed meat under the Pastoral brand. Marketing trials have shown that Pastoral produce is well received in the market place.
The PFLA is led by its members and the board of directors direct its daily affairs in accordance with its constitution. Regional groups are quasi-autonomous and offer the opportunity for local producers to pool their knowledge and to collaborate their efforts.
To join the PFLA click here
To explore the pasture-fed production standards click here
To find out where you can buy Pastoral meat click here
To learn more about how the PFLA operates, read the constitution here
PFLA Milestones
- The idea of developing "pasture-fed" systems emerged from a Transition Farming conference in Exeter, England in November 2009
- First meeting of interested parties was held in January 2010
- Google discussion group established which led to the further refinement of the "pasture-fed" system
- Pasture-Fed Livestock Association established as a community interest company in March 2011
- A set of standards defining the pasture-fed system for beef cattle were finalised in August 2011
- Marketing trials conducted in November 2011 to assess the public reaction to the Pastoral brand
- Website launched in November 2011
- Pastoral brand approved in January 2012
- Board of directors appointed in March 2012
- Production standards revised to include sheep and lamb in April 2012
- PFLA receive grant from Esmee Fairbairn Foundation in May 2012
- Part-time executive secretary appointed in June 2012
- Inaugural members meeting and AGM held in September 2012 at Sheepdrove farm