The issue of humane treatment of farm animals has become a hot topic among consumers and the media. As producers attempt to capitalize, all kinds of animal welfare claims are showing up on meat, poultry, dairy, and egg labels.

Regional grocer Heinen’s Fine Foods said yesterday it plans to expand its offerings of meat, poultry, dairy, and egg products that are Certified Humane under the Certified Humane Raised and Handled program administered by the nonprofit organization Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC).

Heinen’s Fine Foods will expand its offerings of “Certified Humane” meat, poultry, dairy and egg products, the company announced yesterday at a news briefing at its Brecksville, Ohio store.

Heinen’s Fine Foods has become the second supermarket chain in the nation to promise to make sure that more of its beef, chicken, pork, dairy and egg products come from animals that have been raised and treated humanely.

A savory roast set off by broiled carrots and turnips with gravy, bread and glasses of syrah can infuse the most blasé of clans with holiday esprit. This season, celebrate in a hearty, yet healthy way by cooking up one of many grass-fed or USDA-certified organic meat options.