Last updated on February 11th, 2024 at 01:39 pm
Rochester, New York-based grocery retailer Wegmans has broadened its USDA Organic and Certified Humane meat category with the addition of two new artisanal meat offerings handcrafted by New Hampshire-based producer, North Country Smokehouse.
Wegmans shoppers now have access to products like Organic Sugar-Free Applewood Smoked Bacon and Organic Bratwurst sausage, available in 55 stores from New York through North Carolina. 
Wegmans’ shelves are stocked with better-for-you food options to suit various lifestyles, and one need not look far to find products labeled non-GMO, humanely raised and antibiotic free. In addition to clean claims, shoppers will find allergen-free foods like gluten-free, nut-free and dairy-free.
“North Country products check all the boxes,” said Joe Quijano, regional business development manager for North Country Smokehouse. “Not only are these products non-GMO USDA Organic, but we raise the bar by committing to Certified Humane animal welfare standards under our organic farm program. It’s all about flavorful foods produced in the most ethical way possible.”
Wegmans has long been recognized as a consumer-centric brand, putting the needs and wants of the customer in the forefront, coming in No. 1 for “Most Beloved Brand” on the Harris Poll ranking of visible brand reputations in 2019.
“Crafting premium smoked meats in a socially responsible way means respecting the animals and the environment. We recognize our role in the food system supply-chain, and we take it seriously. We are doing our part to restore these values in the farm and food systems. That means a great deal to Wegmans and to their shoppers. When like-minded brands collaborate to make better options available to consumers, everyone wins,” said Quijano.
