Feature | California Bountiful
2022 and has been purchasing his meat and eggs ever since. Buying local meat and eggs keeps food dollars local and “connects you directly to the farmer,” McIntyre said, adding, “You are getting not only the freshest but the most nutrient-dense ingredients.” She took his processing workshop after she began raising her own chickens and later hosted a bone-broth class featuring Hutchison’s chicken carcasses and feet, sharing his belief in sustainability and honoring the animal by using every part of it. Hutchison even sells feathers for mulch and intestines for cooking or fishing bait. Hutchison’s efforts have earned him several agriculture awards, including the state and national FFA Poultry Production Proficiency Awards in 2024. Because almost all of Nate’s Chicks’ profits “go straight back into the business,” he also works for other companies while growing his business. But for Hutchison, Nate’s Chicks isn’t really a job, anyway—it’s a calling. “I'm passionate about birds, hatching and selling healthy chicks, teaching others about processing and food sustainability and feeding the community,” he said.
POULTRY, continued from Page 6
possible. “I finally did have to raise my egg prices by a dollar a dozen, but that was the first time in seven years,” he said.
Community connections He sells most of his products directly to
customers through word of mouth or social media. He also raises roosters for Hmong neighbors, who use them in weddings and celebrations of life. A fellow Madera Ranchos resident, Ashlee McIntyre, found Nate’s Chicks on Facebook in
Hutchison, above, raises 50 breeds of chickens, selling meat, day-old chicks and eggs, above right. He also raises heritage turkeys for the Thanksgiving season and leads workshops on raising poultry and hands-on processing.
Linda DuBois is a reporter in West Sacramento. She can be reached at agalert@cfbf.com.
Little joys can make any moment feel special. These everyday indulgences highlight simple comforts meant for savoring the season. Find them here: agalert.com/bountifulfinds.
A curated collection of goods made by Farm Bureau members
Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. Farm Fresh Collection, $60 “When life gives you four daughters, make cheese.” Based in Marin County, this family business produces cheese using milk from its own farm. The Giacominis’ farm-to-cheese tradition spans four generations. Their Farm Fresh Collection features three cheeses that showcase a range of styles: Original Blue, extra creamy with a bright, peppery boldness; Toma, a versatile everyday cheese; and Quinta, known for its smooth, herbaceous character. Use code CFB15 for 15% off through Dec. 31 .
Old California Botanicals Orange Blossom Perfume, $12 to $50 Inspired by the historic citrus groves of the Inland Empire, Orange Blossom Perfume reflects a classic California scent. J.P. Beall, a fifth-generation citrus grower in Riverside and Redlands, created the fragrance to celebrate California’s citrus heritage and describes it as “a modern interpretation of the perfumes once sold in grand hotels and iconic destinations.” His work emphasizes a sense of place. Use code BountifulFinds-4CA for 15% off through April 30 .
Clif Family Winery & Farm Organic Napa Nash Hot Sauce, $14
Mighty Cap Mushrooms Body Lotion with Mushroom Complex, $24.50 Using the natural moisture- retaining benefits of mushrooms, this lotion helps skin heal and rehydrate. Made with a blend of mushroom varieties, the formula soothes irritation, restores balance and aids the skin in recovering from everyday stress. Based in Paso Robles, owners Chris and Summer Batlle focus on growing mushrooms as a way for people to reconnect with their food, health and the natural systems around them. Use code FB2026 for 10% off all skin products through April 30 .
With flavors drawn from Executive Chef Magnus Young’s Napa Nash Hot Chicken Sandwich—served on the Clif Family Food Truck—this sauce combines Fresno, Stocky Red Roaster, Aleppo and red jalapeño peppers grown and handpicked on the Clif Family Organic Farm in the Napa Valley. From grilled dishes to morning eggs, the versatile staple adds a bold bite to whatever it’s paired with. Use code NAPANASH10 for 10% off two or more bottles through April 30 .
Farm Bureau members: Selling California-made goods online? Contact us to be featured: agalert@cfbf.com.
8 California Bountiful Winter 2026
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