Iceland and Whole Foods Market bring you, exclusively, Icelandic Lamb, which is only available from September through early December, and not in all Whole Foods Market. The good news is that our Whole Foods Market DOES indeed carry it, OH LA LA! I would also be remiss if I didn't give kudos to my co-worker Vladimir B., who turned us on to this delicacy!!
Here's an explanation I came across -
‘Much of Iceland's lamb production is simply based on harvesting the bounties of nature. The use of hormones as growth promoters is strictly prohibited and antibiotics are banned as a feed additive. The Icelandic climate, unpolluted air and abundant supply of clean mountain water makes the use of pesticides and herbicides unnecessary. Iceland's’ climate protects the land against plant diseases, insects and other pests which plague agriculture in warmer latitudes.
Thanks to its geographical isolation and stringent agricultural regulations that control the import of live animals, many common animal diseases are unknown in Iceland.
Choice lambs born in the spring spend the summer grazing freely in the fresh air of Iceland's’ highland pastures. Icelandic lamb is reared entirely outdoors and its natural pasture diet includes sedge, willow, thrift. moss campion and berries. This unique blend makes Icelandic lamb instantly recognizable for its delicious and distinctive taste.
No Antibiotics
No Hormone Implants as growth promoters
No Parasiticides
No Pesticides
No Herbicides
JoAnne picked up some chops and loins, which are chill'n in the freezer. We're thinking about stopping in, at least once more, to pick up more. Can't wait to sink my teeth into some tasty Icelandic lamb, baaaaaaaaaa!
