Alpha Roost Farms in Danville, Kentucky, is raising about 400 ostriches as demand grows for alternatives to traditional red meat. The farm was co-founded by Brent Williams and W.D. King, with the operation also focused on keeping family farmland in agricultural production.

The idea became personal for Williams after he developed alpha-gal syndrome, a potentially life-threatening allergy associated with tick bites. People with the condition can experience allergic reactions after consuming mammalian meat or coming into contact with certain products containing alpha-gal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC says more than 110,000 suspected cases of alpha-gal syndrome were identified in the United States between 2010 and 2022. Because the condition is not nationally reportable, the agency says the actual number is unknown, but estimates that as many as 450,000 people may have been affected.

Unlike beef, pork and other mammalian meats, ostrich is poultry. The CDC notes that alpha-gal is not found in birds, although people with alpha-gal syndrome can have different sensitivities and should follow guidance from their health care providers.

Williams told People that the farm's ostrich meat falls somewhere between poultry and beef in flavor. King, who previously raised cattle, also described the meat as a good alternative. The farm markets ostrich as lean and high in protein, with a flavor similar to steak.

Alpha Roost Farms primarily sells its products through local retailers while also offering opportunities for customers to try ostrich burgers at public events. The owners say demand has continued to grow as more consumers become interested in the meat.

The farm is also planning to expand. King said the operation could reach roughly 700 ostriches next year and potentially double that number again if demand continues to increase.