A Happy Farmer: Alexandre Humeau and Oupette, the Star of the Salon International de l’Agriculture
A jovial and humble farmer from the south of Poitiers, 38-year-old Alexandre Humeau is basking in the spotlight. His cow, Oupette, with her silky amber coat and a small tuft of hair adorning the top of her head, has been chosen as the poster girl for the 61st edition of the Salon International de l’Agriculture (SIA) in Paris, held from Saturday, February 22 to March 2, 2025.
"It’s a recognition of years of work," says Alexandre Humeau. "Raising animals is a vocation, a passion, but also a very demanding profession on a daily basis. That’s one of the messages I want to convey to visitors."
Oupette, a beautiful one-tonne ruminant with well-formed contours, was selected from among other breeds and farms to represent this highly popular event in France. Over nine days, the SIA welcomes more than 600,000 visitors, who will undoubtedly flock to the special enclosure in Hall 1 reserved for this Limousine breed cow.
Alexandre Humeau’s journey to becoming an exhibitor at the SIA began 15 years ago when he took over the family farm. Guided by his passion for agriculture, he decided to specialize in raising Limousine cattle, known for their exceptional beef quality and maternal qualities.
"My goal is to produce high-quality meat while respecting the well-being of my animals," says Alexandre Humeau. "I use natural methods, such as grazing on our pastures, and I limit the use of antibiotics."
Oupette is the embodiment of Alexandre Humeau’s commitment to excellence. She is a prime example of the breed, with her muscular physique, balanced proportions, and gentle nature. Her selection for the SIA poster is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Alexandre Humeau and his team.
"I am very proud of Oupette," says Alexandre Humeau. "She is a true ambassador for our farm and for Limousine cattle. I hope her presence at the SIA will inspire visitors to learn more about agriculture and the importance of supporting local producers."
The Salon International de l’Agriculture is a unique opportunity for farmers to showcase their products, exchange knowledge, and connect with consumers. For Alexandre Humeau, it is a chance to share his passion for his profession and to advocate for the sustainability of agriculture.
"I want to show people that farming is not just about producing food," says Alexandre Humeau. "It’s about preserving and caring for our land, our animals, and our rural heritage. It’s a way of life that I am proud to be a part of."
Alexandre Humeau’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to agriculture. His success is an inspiration to all those who work tirelessly to provide food for our tables and to protect our planet. Oupette, the star of the SIA, is a symbol of the excellence, tradition, and future of French agriculture.
