Progressive poultry producer shares America's concerns for animal rights, healthy environment - US - Animal welfare and the consumption of animal products are two of America's hottest topics. According to a 2004 survey by the Natural Marketing Institute, "30 percent of adult American consumers make purchasing decisions based on issues of social justice, the environment, health."

A 2003 national Harris Interactive survey, sponsored by The Vegetarian Resource Group, found 15 percent of 18 to 34-year-olds (the largest of any demographic) are vegetarian. This represented a decisive upward trend from a previous survey in 2000. Along with nutrition and sustenance, concerns for animal rights and a healthy environment have become integral to the American consumer's decision-making process.

Murray's is fanatical about raising the most humanely handled, healthiest, environmentally safe -- and therefore delicious -- poultry possible. Murray's Chickens are never caged; food and water flow freely and the chickens lounge around as they please.

Murray's was recognized as the leader in implementing safe and humane practices by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) and became the first poultry processor in America to earn the "Certified Humane" Seal. Murray's was awarded the certification following a rigorous on-site inspection by HFAC veterinarians and animal scientists. HFAC guidelines stipulate animals must receive a nutritious diet, free from antibiotics or hormones and must have adequate shelter, resting areas and space sufficient to support natural behavior. Murray's is one of only 24 companies certified to use the "Certified Humane" Seal, which appears on all packaging.

Murray's Chickens are the first and only to utilize the EAU Water Process, which uses electrolyzed water, instead of chlorine, to safely eliminate nearly 100% of bacteria and salmonella.

Said Steve Gold, Murray's Chickens VP Marketing, "As American consumers continue to vote with their wallets in ever-increasing numbers, with their purchasing decisions affected by social justice/animal welfare, the environment and their health, Murray's remains committed to making these concerns a top priority. Murray's has set the highest standards for its poultry, realizing that what we choose put into our bodies is often a reflection of our values and beliefs."

Source: PRNewswire - 4th April 2005