Organic
If
a product bears a "USDA organic" label, you are guaranteed that’s it’s
at least 95% free of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and sewage
sludge and that it hasn’t been genetically modified or irradiated. No
hormones or antibiotics are allowed; animals must be fed
organically-grown feed and have access to the outdoors.
Sustainable
Sustainable
agriculture refers to crops that are raised in ways that don’t harm the
environment, are humane to animals, and that supports farm workers and
farming communities.
Natural
Natural refers to meat and poultry that contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Locally Grown
Locally grown refers to crops produced no more than 250 miles from where they are purchased.
Antibiotic-Free
The
term "antibiotic-free" is unregulated but producers can label foods "no
antibiotics administered" or "raised without antibiotics," which means
animals were raised entirely without them.
Free Range
Chickens
(and turkeys, as well as other poultry) that aren’t confined to cages
and are granted access to the outdoors are called "free range.".
Grass-Fed
Animals raised primarily on grass and hay are referred to as "grass-fed."
