20 Nov Meet ALE Sheep Co.

The Story Behind ALE Sheep Co.

ALE Sheep Co. combines passion, tradition, and sustainability to build a business focused on caring for the land and producing high-quality lamb products.

Anna Odendaal and a Suffolk lamb

Founded by Anna Odendaal in 2012 as a high school FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience, ALE Sheep Co. started with a vision of combining her love for animals with her entrepreneurial spirit. Anna explains, “being raised on a large scale sheep and cattle operation I have always had a love for animals and the mind of a business owner. So, in 2012, when I had the opportunity to purchase a small flock of Suffolk ewes from a well known suffolk sheep rancher, the choice was easy. I took all the money I had saved from my 4-H lambs over the years, sold the 10 head of goats I currently had and became the proud owner of 40 head of Suffolk ewes!”

Anna, alongside her family, has actively nurtured and expanded her flock since its beginning. Today, she and Riaan Odendaal manage their sheep across Northern California and Nevada, continuing the same dedication and passion that launched ALE Sheep Co.

Sustainable Practices and Rewarding Results

“We truly belive in zero to low waste and do our very best to practice what we preach,” says Anna. ALE Sheep Co. goes beyond selling lamb, embracing a philosophy of zero to low waste by utilizing every part of the animal. In addition to producing high-quality lamb meat, the company raises and sells Suffolk Range Rams. This creates an impressive variety of products from their sheep including:

Tanned Sheep Hides

Saved from the landfill and turned into beautiful, usable materials.

Tallow-Based Skincare

Lamb suet is transformed into nourishing skincare products.

Wool Felted Items

Made from their sheep’s wool, showcasing the versatility of their flock.

Bones and Offal

Extra parts are sold as nutrient-dense offerings.

This commitment to sustainable practices ensures that every part of the animal serves a purpose, minimizing waste and maximizing value.

Also, raising sheep is rewarding not just for the high-quality products they produce but also for the positive impact the sheep have on the land they graze. Witnessing the transformation of grasslands after grazing is one of the most fulfilling aspects of Anna’s work. “It’s amazing to see how well grasslands grow back after our sheep have grazed it,” she shares. “It’s also incredibly rewarding to hear feedback from happy customers. Knowing that we’re nourishing families with high-quality protein is something I’ll never tire of.”

The Importance of Buying Local Lamb

Anna believes buying local lamb benefits everyone.

“Eating as locally as possible is better for us and supports the local economy, keeping money in our communities,” she explains. Purchasing directly from ranchers also builds trust and transparency. It allows consumers to know exactly where their food comes from and how it’s raised.

Additionally, low sheep numbers in the U.S. and minimal import tariffs on lamb put the American sheep industry in need of support. Choosing locally raised lamb directly sustains this vital industry while providing consumers with fresher, higher-quality products.

Anna’s Favorite Way to Enjoy Lamb

Lamb is a staple enjoyed almost daily in their family.

Anna’s favorite dish? Lamb Loin Chops pan-fried and topped with butter and garlic—a simple yet delicious way to savor the flavor of high-quality lamb. You can find similar recipes on our lamb recipe page.

Another favorite recipe for special occasions is the delicious Rack of Lamb. It’s the perfect choice for elegant gatherings. Check out the Garlic Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb Recipe!

How to Purchase from ALE Sheep Co.

Interested in trying ALE Sheep Co.’s lamb or other products? Customers can reach out in several ways.

Follow them on social: Instagram and Facebook

Email Anna directly: alesheepcompany@gmail.com

Shop directly from the website: alesheepcompany.com. Direct purchases can be made through the website, with shipping, local delivery, and pick-up options available.

Also, Say hello in person at the Great Basin Community Food Co-op in Reno, NV, and the Valley Farm Store in Cedarville, CA.

Whether you’re a long-time lamb lover or trying it for the first time, ALE Sheep Co. offers top-tier lamb products raised with care, tradition, and sustainability at heart.