Owner and founder John Kunkel of Lime Fresh Mexican Grill announced that the company was “certified humane” for the ground beef that is used in all locations by Humane Animal Farm Care, a national non-profit created to improve the lives of farm animals. Lime is the first and only fast-casual restaurant in Florida to earn this certification and one of only a handful of restaurants in the U.S. that can make the certified humane claim.

Additionally, Lime is in the midst of an expansion that will take the South Florida–based company national and double the number of stores within one year. After opening in trendy South Beach in 2004 to long lines and an enthusiastic clientele, four other branches have since been successfully launched, with two more ready to roll out during the coming month in Miami. By year’s end, the roster of healthy fast-casual restaurants offering onsite and takeaway Mexican cuisine will number 10, and the brand plans to add another 10 each year moving forward throughout the U.S., with first forays projected for Tampa, Orlando, and Atlanta.

While the certified humane certification is relatively new, another green initiative has been in practice in all locations since the chain’s birth: maintaining the lowest amount of food needed every day to eliminate waste.

With its approach of responsible expansion, by virtue of measured growth as well as its embrace of Humane Farm Animal Care and other environmental and health conscious initiatives, Lime’s fresh approach sends a message to consumers and franchisees alike—that this young company is primed for the national spotlight.