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The Regenerative Revolution: Applegate’s Journey in Helping to Transition 10 Million Acres of Regenerative Organic Certified® Grassland
4/16/2025
In recent years, the conversation around sustainability and food production has taken center stage as consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices. One company leading the charge in this new era of agriculture is Applegate, which announced in March that it is now sourcing all beef for its award-winning beef hot dogs from certified regenerative farms. In partnership with Hewitt Foods, the commitment has helped to transition 10 million acres of organic grasslands to Regenerative Organic Certified®, marking a significant milestone in the industry.
Applegate’s journey into regenerative agriculture began when the founders recognized a pressing need for change in the beef industry. Traditional farming practices often lead to soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and excess carbon emissions. In contrast, regenerative agriculture focuses on strengthening the health of ecosystems and rebuilding soil fertility through holistic farming techniques. Applegate and Hewitt Foods have had a long partnership, and together they took the bold step to certify organic pastures as regenerative, a move that would bolster their impact on the global supply chain and extend their reach as leaders in the industry.
The collaboration is transforming the way beef is sourced and produced, prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices. Regenerative agriculture encompasses methods such as rotational grazing, cover cropping, and minimal soil disturbance, all of which contribute to restoring ecosystem balance. By supporting a conversion to regenerative organic practices, Applegate is not only prioritizing animal welfare but also improving the health of the land and, consequently, the food we consume.
Applegate’s commitment to certified regenerative beef is grounded in its belief in a holistic approach to farming. The grasslands that are now part of this initiative are managed for biodiversity, fostering habitats for wildlife and enhancing carbon sequestration, essential components in the fight against climate change.
One of the most significant aspects of Applegate’s effort lies in its impact on farmers and producers. By establishing strong relationships and fair partnerships within the supply chain, the company empowers local farmers to adopt regenerative practices, ensuring that they are compensated fairly for their critical role in creating a sustainable food system. This collaboration fosters a supportive network that benefits not only the farmers but the consumers who are increasingly seeking transparency and integrity in their food sources.
Moreover, this shift towards regenerative organic agriculture is redefining consumer expectations. Today’s buyers are more informed and passionate about the origins of their food- even something as humble as a hot dog- making it essential for businesses to align with these values. Applegate’s investment in certified regenerative agriculture puts it at the forefront of a growing movement that champions soil health, animal welfare, and worker fairness, an inspiring model for food producers everywhere.
Applegate stands as a beacon of hope for those invested in the future of agriculture. Their role in helping to convert 10 million acres to regenerative organic practices sets a precedent that could inspire other companies to rethink their sourcing and production methods. In doing so, Applegate is not only providing consumers with delicious, ethically-produced products but also driving meaningful change that extends far beyond just hot dogs, helping to heal our planet one meal at a time.