Karns Foods, a beloved independent grocery chain in Pennsylvania, has announced a groundbreaking initiative that is set to transform the local agriculture landscape. The Karns Beef Program marks a significant step forward in localized food systems, establishing Karns Foods as the first grocery retailer in the United States to both produce and manage a private beef herd. This innovative model is built on strong partnerships with family farms and has earned Karns Foods the distinguished PA Preferred beef designation certification from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
The official launch ceremony, held in Honey Brook, PA, brought together key figures from the agriculture sector and local government. Scott Karns, President of Karns Foods, was joined by Russell C. Redding, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture, and Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, among other dignitaries. Larisa Miller, CEO of Keystone Farm Future, the organization providing oversight for the Karns Foods program, also participated in the event.
“Since 1959, Karns has been synonymous with fresh, high-quality beef and expert custom butchering,” stated Scott Karns proudly. “Creating our own private beef program is a natural progression for Karns Foods, allowing us to directly manage the beef supply chain. This ensures we source, select, and raise premium Angus beef cattle responsibly, working with family farms in our community. Many of these farms are transitioning from dairy to beef, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.”
Karns further elaborated on the meticulous process of the Karns Beef Program: “From the moment they arrive at our dedicated induction hub in Chester County, throughout their life cycle on local farms in central Pennsylvania, our Karns Beef are carefully chosen, nourished, and cared for. This localized approach provides a crucial buffer against the vulnerabilities of the national beef supply chain. By localizing every aspect of our PA Preferred beef supply, Karns Foods guarantees our customers the highest quality PA Preferred 100% Angus Choice and Prime beef, starting in May 2022.”
Larisa Miller of Keystone Farm Future emphasized the broader context of the Karns Beef Program: “The COVID era has exposed weaknesses in our global food supply chain. Karns Foods is at the forefront of reimagining agribusiness, championing local food production from farm to fork. This program accelerates the shift towards resilient, community-based food systems.”
The Karns Beef Program is currently collaborating with 15 farms across Pennsylvania counties including Lancaster, Chester, Perry, Lebanon, Juniata, and Cumberland. These farms are entrusted with raising herds ranging from 40 to over 100 Angus steers. The central induction facility, where the Karns Beef herd is initially received and carefully monitored before being distributed to partner farms, is located at King Farm in Honey Brook.
Russell C. Redding, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture, highlighted the program’s significance for the state: “Farming is the bedrock of Pennsylvania. Karns Foods’ innovative beef program positions Pennsylvania as a leader in agricultural innovation. By offering consumers exceptional, locally sourced PA Preferred beef, supporting our beef and transitioning dairy farmers, and securing the future of family farms, we are ensuring Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry remains a pillar of food security for generations to come.”
The USDA Graded PA Preferred 100% Angus Choice and Prime beef, a direct result of the Karns Beef Program, became available at all Karns Foods locations starting in May. Karns Foods, with its 10 locations across Pennsylvania, continues to uphold its legacy of quality and community commitment, a tradition started in 1959 by founder David Karns and now led by his son, President and CEO Scott Karns. Karns Foods stores are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering local communities access to premium, locally sourced products like their PA Preferred Karns Beef.
