FOOD LABELS EXPOSED A definitive guide to common food label terms and claims

FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 1 FOOD LABELS EXPOSED

Modern food companies use a bewildering range of terms and claims on their packaging labels to promote food and attract buyers to their products. Common examples include locally grown, humanely raised, natural, free range, or sustainably farmed. But what exactly do all these terms and claims really mean—and how can you know they’re even true?

The problem is that while some of these terms and claims have legal definitions controlled by government regulation, most are completely unregulated and can easily lead to misunderstandings—or misuse. What’s more, most of the regulated label claims aren’t even properly regulated or controlled. The reality is it’s hard to know which food label claims you can trust—and which you should avoid.

Food Labels Exposed was developed to help you navigate and decipher today’s food labels and restaurant menus, providing clear and factual definitions for over 100 of the most common claims and terms used for the production, marketing and labeling of meat, dairy, eggs and other farmed products. Also available as a free smartphone app, this guide will help you find out what’s really going on behind the food label, allowing you to make informed food purchases.

2 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 3 Fresh Natural/All natural Humanely raised Cage free BEHIND Legally, the fresh label term (see page 16) Research by Consumer Reports says 60% There is no legal definition or minimum If you see a cage free label (see page 11) simply means the internal temperature of of consumers look for the natural label agreed welfare standard for the humane on chicken meat, you might be forgiven for a meat product must never go below 26°F. claim (see page 20) when out shopping, claim (see page 19). So you’ll find it on thinking the company is making a special Nothing more, nothing less. while almost half wrongly assume it food products where animals were raised concession to animal welfare by raising THE LABEL means the animals lived outdoors on on dirt feedlots or indoors in confinement meat chickens without a cage. But while pasture. Yet this claim has absolutely systems, and where antibiotic use and most laying hens are still raised in cages, nothing to do with how animals are raised, beak trimming or tail docking are routine broiler or meat chickens are never raised in When it comes to food choices, one of the biggest what they are fed or if they had any access practices. Unless you choose food that cages. So this widely used marketing claim challenges is knowing which food labels you can trust. to pasture, for example. It simply means has independent third-party verification for chicken is actually highly misleading. the meat contains no artificial ingredients according to high-welfare standards, or added colors, and that it was minimally you’re probably still buying industrially The label example on the right includes some of the most processed. farmed food animal products. common terms and claims you will find on food animal product labels: fresh, natural, humanely raised, cage free, fed a vegetarian diet, no hormones added, no antibiotics added and no animal by-products.

They all sound positive. But what do these terms and claims really mean? We think you’ll be surprised by the truth …

Fed a vegetarian diet No hormones added/ No antibiotics added/ No animal by-products

This label claim indicates the animals administered administered This term implies no products derived were fed a diet free of animal products. from animals were used in the animal’s Commonly found on poultry and pork Some food producers now prohibit However, as there is no legal definition for feed. But because there is no legal meat labels, the no hormones added antibiotics under their labels, in response this claim, and farms making this claim are definition of what an animal by-product claim (see page 21) is highly misleading to public health concerns about antibiotic not independently audited, we can’t know is, a farmer could feed a variety of animal- and deceptive. Why? Because United use in industrial food animal production. if it is true. One thing is for sure: this label derived ingredients—such as milk or States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Even though the no antibiotics added claim offers absolutely no guarantees the fishmeal—under this label. And without regulations prohibit the use of artificial label claim (see page 21) is regulated, animals were raised outdoors on pasture an independent on-farm verification, no hormones or steroids in all chicken and most farms making this claim are not or range (see page 26). one will have audited the farm to check pig production systems in the U.S. In other independently audited. And while some if this claim is even true (see page 21). words, any chicken or pork processor could labels do have an audited ‘no antibiotics put a no hormones or steroids added ever’ requirement (such as Organic), this claim on their label. can encourage farmers to withhold vital treatments.

4 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 5 HOW TO Legally defined Is anyone actually Legend HIGH WELFARE ASSURANCE HIGH WELFARE CLAIM —or not? checking? The label is widely recognized by consumer The label makes claims that may affect The following symbols will help you advocates as having highly meaningful animal welfare. However, the claims USE THIS quickly identify whether a term or label animal care standards and, in addition, are not verified and/or the label has When it comes to food choices, one of the Sadly, even if a food label term or claim claim is independently verified by audit, includes publicly available and audited no audited standards to ensure high- biggest challenges is knowing which food has a legal definition, you can’t always trust and whether you can believe any of the standards to ensure high-welfare slaughter. welfare slaughter. GUIDE labels you can trust. This is especially true it. That’s because many legally defined wider issue(s) the label claims to address, when it comes to the growing number of label claims are not independently checked such as the high-welfare treatment of ENVIRONMENTAL ASSURANCE ENVIRONMENTAL CLAIM ‘self-made’ label claims that don’t have or verified. animals or environmental sustainability. any clear legal definition. How do you know which food labels to The label makes claims about farming’s The label makes claims that address Many common label claims, such as trust? Broadly speaking, food label terms AUDITED/ impact on the environment that are farming’s impact on the environment. humanely raised or sustainably farmed, and claims fall into two key categories: THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIED independently verified by audit to However, claims are not independently fall into this dubious self-made category. • Audited/Third-party certified a published set of standards. verified by audit or to a set of standards. This means any food manufacturer can Some of the terms and claims used on The most trusted food labels in this use them—even if the meat, dairy or food labels are audited and verified by an guide will have this green audited/ eggs come from intensive systems where SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY independent third party. This is where an third-party certified icon. This symbol animals are confined on feedlots or ASSURANCE CLAIM independent auditor visits the associated is your assurance that a term or claim indoors, subjected to mutilations like beak farm, slaughter plant or processing/packing made on the label is regularly verified by The label makes claims about the fair The label makes claims that address fair trimming or tail docking, and given routine plant to ensure food was produced or an independent third party, and farms treatment of workers and/or communities treatment of workers and/or communities. antibiotics and hormones. processed according to specified rules and suppliers are physically audited that are independently verified by audit However, claims are not independently Where a food label term or claim is or standards. at least once a year according to set of to a published set of standards. verified by audit or to a set of standards. legally defined or regulated, we provide • Unaudited/No third-party certification published standards. Audited/third-party the official definition in italics—citing the Many common terms and claims found certified labels include well-known food certifications such as Animal Welfare LOCAL/REGION SPECIFIC LOCAL/REGION SPECIFIC official source. on food labels are ‘self-made.’ In other ASSURANCE CLAIM words, there is no independent physical Approved and Certified Organic. Where a term or claim is not legally defined verification or audit process to check if or regulated, we provide an unbiased The label makes claims that the product The label makes claims that the product the terms or claims used on the label definition of the term or claim, explaining PUBLISHED PROTOC0L was produced in a certain geographic was produced in a certain geographic are consistent—or even true. its limitations and any areas of potential region/country that are independently region/country. However, claims are not This symbol tells you the food label or verified by audit. independently verified by audit. concern. When you are assessing any label claim, claim is backed up by a legally defined or it is important to find out if it has been agreed definition that is publicly available. audited by an independent third party If this symbol is absent, there is no such ANTIBIOTIC USE ANTIBIOTIC USE —or not. Unless the claim is checked by definition—you might want to ask more CONTROLLED ASSURANCE CONTROLLED CLAIM an independent third party, the integrity questions about the product. of a food label is often only as reliable The label makes claims that antibiotic The label makes claims that antibiotic use as the individual or company making it. use is prohibited or significantly restricted is prohibited or significantly restricted. UNAUDITED/NO THIRD-PARTY that are independently verified by audit. However, claims are not independently CERTIFICATION verified by audit.

Whenever you see a food label claim or SLAUGHTER REVIEW term in this guide with this red unaudited/ ASSURANCE NO SLAUGHTER REVIEW no third-party certification icon, it means The welfare of animals at slaughter— The label makes claims that may affect there is no independent third-party including a requirement for pre-slaughter animal welfare. However, the welfare of verification or audit. When you see this stunning for all animals—is independently animals at slaughter is not independently symbol you should contact the supplier verified by audit to a published set of verified or audited annually to a published to find out more about the product or standards. set of standards, or the independent ask further questions to ensure you are verification or audit does not require the satisfied with the validity of any claims stunning of animals before slaughter. made. NO CONFINEMENT

The label makes claims that animals CONFINEMENT have access to range or pasture at all times (except when animal welfare The label makes claims about the ability would be adversely affected) that are of animals to roam freely on pasture or independently verified. Feedlots, crates range. However, there is no independent and cages are never used. verification or audit of this claim. Feedlots, crates and cages may also be used.

6 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 7 grazing at all times. The only exceptions for any other species in the program and Angus Beef, the claim is not actually TERMS Affidavit to this standard are emergencies that American Humane also certifies caged a certification (rather it is a licensed Animal Welfare may threaten the safety and well-being egg production (as well as cage free indoor trademark) and is not audited by a third- of the animals or soil, and management production). Farrowing crates are permitted party. The terms Angus Beef and Black Review Certified aka Animal Care Certified AND practices such as roundups, sorting, under the pig standards; feedlot finishing Angus Beef are also commonly used, but shipping and weaning. is permitted under the beef standards; and even less regulated. Also known as a ‘self-made’ claim, an • Animal Health And Welfare: Mineral and beak trimming is permitted in both turkey affidavit is defined as a statement where CLAIMS vitamin supplements may be provided and laying hen production. American the individual signing takes an oath that free choice to adjust the animals’ nutrient Humane standards require that slaughter the contents are, to the best of their Definition by Validus: intake and to correct deficiencies in the is reviewed annually, but there is no knowledge, true. The affidavit system is Animal Welfare total diet energy source. The feeding of requirement for the stunning of all animals Validus Animal Welfare Review sometimes used in meat production to animal by-products is prohibited, and before slaughter. While this is a verified Approved Certification is awarded to farms that support a company’s claims of production no antibiotics, ionophores or hormones claim, the American Humane standards aka AWA or Certified Animal Welfare follow stringent animal welfare guide- methods, like the avoidance of hormones of any type may be administered. are so low that the label is not recognized Approved by AGW lines. Farms that receive animal welfare or antibiotics, specific grazing and feeding • Origin: Animals eligible for acceptance as meaningful by consumer advocates. certification undergo a detailed assess- protocols, or high-welfare management. in the AGA Certified Grassfed program ment and audit of their on-farm animal While an affidavit system may provide must be born and raised in the United welfare practices. Certification is awarded some comfort that label claims are factual, to farms which demonstrate compliance States of America. Definition by Certified Animal Welfare such systems do not employ independent with the animal welfare criteria and Approved by AGW: third-party verification programs that AGA’s standards apply to ruminant Amish standards established for their operation. guarantee a claim is truthful. There is no animals only—beef, bison, goat, lamb aka Amish Country Animal Welfare Approved (AWA) audits, legal requirement to sign in the presence and sheep. AGA-Certified producers are certifies and supports independent The Validus standards are not publicly of a qualified witness, so anyone can sign audited annually by independent, third farmers who raise their animals according available, so there is no way of knowing their own statement. Retailers such as parties to ensure continuing compliance to the highest welfare standards, outdoors what specific management practices they Walmart are moving away from self- with the standards. No independent third-party verification; on pasture or range. AWA has the most require. There is no information on whether made claims and increasingly require No legal or regulated definition rigorous standards for farm animal animals have access to pasture or what the audits to ensure integrity and to protect The AGA standards ensure that animals welfare currently in use by any North policy is on mutilations, calf management brand value. remain on pasture and are not given any The perceived image of Amish farming American organization and is the most or antibiotic use. Although beef, dairy antibiotics or added hormones. However, is that animals are raised on small-scale highly regarded food label when it comes and pig standards exist, at the time of there are no other welfare requirements farms with pasture access throughout their to animal welfare, pasture-based farming publication the list of certified companies and the animals could still be subject to lives. The Amish and Amish Country label and sustainability. All AWA standards, appear to all be dairy farms, while the dehorning, late castration or other painful American Grassfed is most frequently used to market chicken, policies and procedures are available certification is displayed on products procedures. There are also no standards but without a third-party certification on the program’s website, making it one like Costco organic milk packaging. Association to assure welfare at slaughter. AGA allows indicating otherwise, these birds were of the most transparent certifications auditing to be carried out by the farm’s probably raised in standard intensive available. To accomplish the goals of the veterinarian or extension agent, as well as poultry houses. There is not even any AWA program, the standards and audit by trained auditors working for certification guarantee that birds came from Amish process address every aspect of each Antibiotic free Definition by American Grassfed bodies. (See also Grassfed.) farms. species’ lifecycle needs from birth to Association (AGA): death. AWA is the only label that requires audited high-welfare slaughter practices AGA’s standards are based on several with pre-slaughter stunning and is also fundamentals: American Humane Statement by USDA Food Safety and Angus the only label that additionally requires Inspection Service (FSIS): • Forage: An AGA-Certified Grassfed pasture access for all animals. Certified aka Certified Angus Beef animal is born, raised and finished on The term is not allowed to be used on open grass pastures where perennial Animal Welfare Approved (AWA) is a a label. and annual grasses, forbs, legumes, program of A Greener World. AWA is the brassicas, browse and post-harvest crop most highly regarded food label when it Antibiotic free is not a permitted label Definition by American Humane Certified: residue without grain are the sole energy No legal or regulated definition comes to animal welfare, pasture-based claim. However, some companies still use sources, with the exception of mother’s American Humane’s program provides farming and sustainability. Established this description on websites or in blogs. milk, from birth to harvest. Hay, haylage, a verifiable assurance that products The American Angus Association in 2006, AWA is the only farm animal (See No Antibiotics Added.) silage, and ensilage from any of the carrying the American Humane Certified has registered a definition of Certified welfare program in the U.S. accredited above sources may be fed to animals label have met rigorous, science-based Angus beef with USDA that requires the to ISO/IEC 17065—an independent while on pasture during periods of welfare standards and the animals in animal to have 50% Angus genetics or a global accreditation that confirms AWA’s inclement weather or low forage quality. the program were humanely raised. predominantly (51%) black coat or hide. To standards, policies and audit protocols Artisan/Artisanal • Confinement: AGA-Certified Grassfed qualify, animals must be under 30 months are credible, transparent and applied ruminants must graze pasture where Although American Humane has recently at slaughter and must meet additional consistently to all farms and ranches in they will receive most, if not all, of their developed a separate, optional free range meat quality requirements. However, the program. (See also Certified Grassfed nutrition and be allowed to fulfill their and pasture standard for laying hens, there are no management or welfare by AGW and Certified Non-GMO by AGW, No independent third-party verification; natural behaviors and basic instincts of there is no requirement for pasture access requirements. Despite the name Certified optional add-ons to AWA certification.) No legal or regulated definition

8 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 9 These terms imply products are handmade the SMBC, which is part of the National methods of ensuring product integrity at welfare standards, outdoors on pasture or in small batches. They are most often Biodynamic Zoo based in Washington, D.C. SMBC Cage free the local level. If in doubt, ask the market range, as well as being 100% grassfed for used on labels and marketing materials encourages the production of shade- for eggs/laying hens organizer. life. Because Certified Grassfed by AGW for cheese, bread, pasta, jams, chocolates, grown coffee, and the conservation is an optional, additional accreditation for cured meats, confections, sauces, preserves, of migratory birds, through its “Bird Animal Welfare Approved farmers and condiments, beverages and ice cream, but Friendly” seal of approval. ranchers, the combined standards also Definition by Demeter-USA: can also include products from fisheries Certified Grassfed prohibit the routine use of antibiotics and and other products. However, as there is Biodynamic agriculture goes beyond The SMBC requires producers to No independent third-party verification; hormones and ensure welfare at slaughter. no legal definition, anyone could use the organic, envisioning the farm as a self- meet organic standards first, as well No legal or regulated definition by AGW (See also Grassfed; Animal Welfare term artisanal—even if the product is mass contained and self-sustaining organism. as additional criteria to ensure they are Approved.) As the term implies, hens laying eggs produced in a factory. In an effort to keep the farm, the farmer, maintaining the forest cover that provides labeled as cage free are raised without the consumer, and the earth healthy, habitat for birds and other wildlife. This using cages, but still almost always live farmers avoid chemical pesticides and label is currently only available on coffee. Definition by A Greener World: fertilizers, utilize compost and cover inside large barns or warehouses, often Certified Grassfed by A Greener World Certified Greenhouse crops, and set aside a minimum of 10% with several thousand other birds. Cage Basted/Self-basted (AGW) is an optional, additional of their total acreage for biodiversity. free does not explain if the birds have accreditation for farmers and ranchers The entire farm, versus a particular crop, any access to the outside, or whether CAFO/AFO raising cattle, sheep, goats or bison must be certified, and farms are inspected any outside area provided was pasture according to Animal Welfare Approved Definition by Certified Greenhouse annually. In order for a product to bear or concrete/dirt lot, or if they were raised Definition by USDA Food Safety and standards of production. Farmers: the Demeter logo it must be made with entirely indoors in overcrowded conditions. Inspection Service (FSIS): certified Biodynamic ingredients and Beak trimming is permitted to prevent Certified Grassfed by AGW is the only The Standard is in support of the Definition by U.S. Environmental Bone-in poultry products that are injected meet strict processing standards to feather pecking. certification and logo in the U.S. and definition of greenhouse grown vegetables Protection Agency (EPA): or marinated with a solution containing ensure the purest possible product. Canada that guarantees food products as set forth by the Certified Greenhouse butter or other edible fat, broth, stock or Animal Feeding Operations (AFOs) are come from animals fed a 100% grass Farmers (CGF): water plus spices, flavor enhancers and Biodynamic farming is an approach based agricultural operations where animals and forage diet, raised outdoors on A fully enclosed permanent aluminum other approved substances must be on the work of the Austrian philosopher, are kept and raised in confined situations. Cage free pasture or range for their entire lives, and or steel structure clad either in glass or labeled as basted or self-basted. The Rudolf Steiner. In addition to organic AFOs congregate animals, feed, manure for poultry meat managed according to the Animal Welfare impermeable plastic for the controlled maximum added weight of approximately practices, such as crop rotation and and urine, dead animals and production Approved program’s leading welfare environmental growing of certified green- 3% solution before processing is included composting, biodynamic farmers rely on operations on a small land area. Feed is and environmental standards on an house/hothouse vegetables using together in the net weight on the label. Label must special plant, animal and mineral prepar- brought to the animals rather than the independent farm. While other grassfed computerized irrigation and climate control include a statement identifying the total ations and the rhythmic influences of the animals grazing or otherwise seeking labels exist, Certified Grassfed by AGW is No legal or regulated definition systems, including heating and ventilation quantity and common or usual name sun, moon, planets and stars. Biodynamic feed in pastures, fields or on rangeland. the first to meet consumer expectations capability; grown in a soilless medium of all ingredients in the solution, e.g., agriculture is a method of sustainable AFOs confine animals for at least 45 days when it comes to a grassfed and forage The cage free claim is widely used on that substitutes for soil (under the green- “Injected with approximately 3% of a farming that regards the farm as a self- in a 12-month period and have no grass diet, environmental management, the poultry meat packaging. However, this house/hothouse); using hydroponic solution of … [list of ingredients].” Use contained and self-sustaining organism, or other vegetation in the confinement preservation of antibiotics and farm claim is highly misleading, as meat birds methods; Integrated Pest Management of the terms “basted” or “self-basted” and encourages farmers to avoid chemical area during the normal growing season. animal welfare. are never raised in cages—no matter how and without the use of pesticides. on boneless poultry products is limited pesticides and fertilizers, utilize compost Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations intensive the system is. Poultry raised for to 8% of the weight of the raw poultry and cover crops, and promote biodiversity. (CAFOs) are AFOs that fall under one of To achieve the additional Certified Grassfed meat under this label claim are inevitably Farms must additionally hold food safety before processing. While Biodynamic standards on animal the EPA’s definitions of Large, Medium or by AGW requirements, ruminant animals confined indoors in enclosed barns along certification before they can be Certified management require pasture access for Small CAFO’s, depending on the number must only be fed a grass and forage diet, with tens of thousands of other birds. Greenhouse growers. livestock and prohibit some mutilations, of animals involved, how wastewater and with the exception of milk consumed such as disbudding or dehorning cattle, /or manure are managed, and whether before weaning. Animals cannot be While this certification has some standards Beyond/Better than/ beak tipping poultry or routinely tail the operation is “a significant contributor fed grain or grain by-products. Like all for environmental management, intensive docking sheep, the standards do not of pollutants.” CAFOs exist in all regions Certified farmers’ other Animal Welfare Approved livestock, greenhouse or hothouse production can More than Organic cover other common livestock operations, of the U.S. They are concentrated in the animals must be raised outdoors on involve very high-energy consumption such as castration age and methods. The eastern seaboard, the plains and the market pasture or range and cannot be confined for heating and lighting, and can result Biodynamic claim is legally defined and west coast. The total number of CAFOs to feedlots or dirt lots. To ensure the in significant greenhouse gas emissions. audited by the Demeter Association, Inc. is estimated to be in excess of 20,000. welfare and productivity of dairy cattle No independent third-party verification; managed according to the standards, No legal or regulated definition CAFOs are also known as Confined Animal No legal or regulated definition in many cattle dairy applicants must be Animal Feeding Operations, Concentrated Agri- states Welfare Approved for at least one audit Certified Humane These terms imply that products meet Bird Friendly cultural Feeding Operations, or factory farms. cycle, have been practicing 100% grassfed —and even exceed—organic standards. The vast majority of all meat, eggs and Some states offer or require certification feeding for at least one year, and agree to However, no verification of farming dairy products consumed in the U.S. are of farmers’ markets to ensure all products forage testing for each cut of hay, haylage, methods is either defined or audited from CAFO systems. If you buy meat, be sold are produced by the farmers them- silage or baleage—whether home produced Definition by Certified Humane: to ensure this is the case. aware that CAFO facilities vary widely, with selves. In 2014, these states included or bought-in. Definition by Smithsonian Migratory Bird huge variations in size, sanitation and welfare California, Nevada, Georgia and Texas. The Certified Humane Raised and Centre (SMBC): practices, as well as antibiotic and hormone Most of the nation’s producer-only farmers’ The Certified Grassfed by AGW standards Handled label assures consumers that Bird Friendly is a certification created by administration and environmental measures. markets establish their own rules and ensure animals are managed to high- the producer meets our standards and

10 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 11 applies them to animals from birth for small-scale, direct-market farmers cropping, feedlot and confinement Two types of crates are commonly used through slaughter. Animals are never and beekeepers using natural methods. Chemical free systems, routine/subtherapeutic use in intensive pork production: farrowing Dry-aged kept in cages, crates, or tie stalls. Animals CNG producers don’t use any synthetic of antibiotics, added hormones and crates and gestation crates, defined below. must be free to do what comes naturally. fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides other chemical approaches and routine It is important to note, however, that just For example, chickens must be able to or GMO seeds, just like organic farmers. interventions. Conventional farming in the because a label states it is farrowing-crate flap their wings and dust bathe, and Certified Naturally Grown is an independent U.S. and Canada may also include the use free does not mean it is gestation crate Statement by USDA Food Safety and No independent third-party verification; pigs must have space to move around program not affiliated with the NOP. of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), free, and vice versa. Even if a product is Inspection Service (FSIS): No legal or regulated definition and root. Animals must be fed a diet of as the vast majority of feed crops, such labeled crate-free, it does not mean the quality feed, without animal by-products, Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) products The term is not allowed to be used on as corn and soy, are genetically modified. animals were raised outdoors. Dry-aged meat (usually beef) is hung in antibiotics or growth hormones. Producers are registered as having been produced a label. Farrowing crate: A cage or other strictly a temperature- and humidity-controlled must comply with food safety and in approximate accordance with National enclosed space in which a sow is confined room for a period of weeks to develop environmental regulations. Processors Organic Standards. CNG states that their Chemical free and no chemicals added to give birth to and suckle her piglets, and flavor and tenderness. Under controlled must comply with the American Meat standards on livestock management are not official marketing claims, as there COOL where the sow’s movements are restricted temperatures the muscle fibers relax, Institute Standards (AMI), a slaughter are stricter than the National Organic is no standardized definition. However, aka Country of Origin Labeling so she cannot turn around or otherwise making the meat more tender. Most standard written by Dr. Temple Grandin, Standards and require more time on some companies still use this description have free movement. Farrowing crates commercially available meat is wet-aged, a member of HFAC’s Scientific Committee. pasture for all animals. However, this label of their products on websites or in blogs. are prohibited under Animal Welfare meaning it is wrapped in plastic, vacuum is modeled on a Participatory Guarantee Such terms create confusion in the Approved, Certified Humane and Global sealed and refrigerated for a shorter period Certified Humane is a third-party accred- System (PGS). PGS programs differ from marketplace, as (for example) antibiotics Animal Partnership standards. of time. itation that requires ruminants to have third-party audit models like the USDA are not considered chemicals by USDA. Definition by USDA Food Safety and outdoor pasture access for at least part of National Organic Program (NOP), as they Inspection Service (FSIS): Gestation crate: A cage or stall in which a their lives, defines space requirements and employ a peer-review inspection process sow is confined for the period of pregnancy The Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) bird and animal management, and carries built on local networks, rather than a and in which she has restricted options for program is neither a food safety or trace- out audits to its published standards. formal or independent audit. There is Cloning movement. Gestation crates are prohibited Dry-farmed ability program but rather a consumer therefore no verification by an independent aka From cloned animals under the Animal Welfare Approved, Farrowing and gestation crates for pigs information program. Some food products, third-party to ensure farms are actually for meat or dairy Certified Humane and Global Animal and cages for laying hens are all prohibited. both imported and domestic, must meet meeting the standards. Partnership standards. However, Certified Humane still receives a the food safety standards of USDA’s No independent third-party verification; confinement icon as its standards permit Food Safety and Inspection Service and No legal or regulated definition the finishing of beef cattle in feedlots and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. there is no requirement for pasture access No legal or regulated definition The COOL law requires retailers to notify This term refers to produce grown using for pigs and meat poultry. Laying hens Certified Non-GMO their customers of the country of origin Cured a technique that seeks to retain moisture may be certified as cage free indoor, free Cloning is the practice of creating an for all commodities covered under this by AGW in the soil and to minimize or eliminate range or pasture raised. Certified Humane exact genetic replica of an organism. law. Foods that must be labeled with the use of irrigation. Dry farming works also permits beak tipping of laying hens When used in food animal production, their country of origin are: to conserve soil moisture during long dry up to 10 days of age where farms have cloning has many negative implications Definition by U.S. Food and Drug periods, primarily through a system of had issues with injurious feather pecking. for animal welfare—for example, the • Muscle cuts of lamb, goat, and chicken Administration (FDA): Definition by A Greener World: tillage, surface protection and the use Certified Humane standards require that mortality of newborn clones is very high • Ground lamb, ground goat, and ground Meat and poultry are cured by the of drought-resistant varieties. Some of slaughter is reviewed annually, but there is Certified Non-GMO by AGW is the only —and potentially threatens the genetic chicken addition of salt alone or in combination the finest wines and olive oils in the world no requirement for the stunning of animals food label in North America that helps diversity of our food supply. At present, • Farm raised fish and shellfish with one or more ingredients such as are produced with dry-farmed fruit. In before slaughter. consumers identify genetically modified dairy cattle are the most commonly cloned • Wild fish and shellfish sodium nitrite, sugar, curing accelerators, addition to grapes and olives, a wide range (or genetically engineered) products and animals. Food products from cloned • Fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables For more information, and a comparison and spices. These are used for partial of crops, including tomatoes, pumpkins, support high-welfare, environmentally animals are currently allowed to enter the • Peanuts, pecans and macadamia nuts of the different welfare standards of preservation, flavoring, color enhancement, watermelons, cantaloupes, winter squash, sustainable food animal production. food system unlabeled. Some third-party • Ginseng various animal welfare certification tenderizing and improving yield of meat. garbanzos, apricots, apples and potatoes, Available to farmers, ranchers and food certifications, such as Animal Welfare programs, see certifiedhumane.org The process may include dry curing, are dry farmed in California. producers, the Certified Non-GMO by Approved, prohibit cloned animals. The COOL law used to apply to meat from (select ‘how we work’, then ‘factsheets’). immersion curing, direct addition, or AGW label guarantees food products cattle and pigs, but this part of the federal injection of the curing ingredients. Curing are not only produced without GMO feed, regulation was repealed in 2016. Since mixtures are typically composed of salt supplements or ingredients, but is the only that time, some individual states have (sodium chloride), sodium nitrite, and non-GMO label to offer further assurances expressed interest in reinstating Country Fair Trade Certified Naturally Conventional seasonings. Cured meat and poultry about animal welfare and environmental of Origin Labeling. products include bacon, beef jerky, Grown sustainability (the label is an optional smoked turkey, sausages, corned beef, addition to Animal Welfare Approved pastrami, pig’s feet and corned tongues. certification). Definition by the Fair World Project (FWP): No legal or regulated definition Crate-free The fair trade movement that FWP is No independent third-party verification See also Animal Welfare Approved; for pork The term conventional usually refers to part of shares a vision of a world in which Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). standard agricultural practices that are justice and sustainable development Definition by Certified Naturally Grown: widespread in the industry. It can (but are at the heart of trade structures and Certified Naturally Grown is a non-profit does not necessarily) include the use of practices, both at home and abroad, organization offering certification tailored pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, mono- No legal or regulated definition so that everyone through their work

12 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 13 can maintain a decent and dignified claim is being misused by major food gut (which can cause serious food livelihood. corporations to present a disingenuous Farm fresh poisoning outbreaks in humans), as well Food Justice Certified Free range image of the independence or sustain- as other cattle health and welfare issues, Fair Trade is more than just trading: it aka Free roaming ability of their family farm suppliers. In such as liver lesions. Feedlot systems are proves that greater justice in world trade is for poultry meat such cases, the family farmed claim often criticized for the significant environmental possible. It highlights the need for change refers to situations where a family might impact associated with the mass in the rules and practice of conventional No independent third-party verification; Definition by the Agricultural Justice own the farm, but where all day-to-day production and storage of waste manure, trade and shows how a successful No legal or regulated definition Project: livestock husbandry practices are dictated and are recognized as the most resource- business can also put people first. by contracts with a major meat processor, intensive food system. Unless you see The Agricultural Justice Project (AJP) No independent third-party verification Farm fresh is a term commonly found Fair trade certifiers and membership for example. In some cases, particularly the No Confinement logo next to a claim works to transform the existing agri- on egg cartons, but may also be found on organizations all agree on these basic intensive poultry and pig production, in this guide, there is no guarantee that cultural system. We seek empowerment, Definition by USDA Food Safety and other foods. It is used to give a favorable fair trade principles: the animals are also owned by the feedlots are prohibited. (See also CAFO.) justice and fairness for all who labor from Inspection Service (FSIS): impression of the freshness of the product corporation—not the farmer. farm to retail. Central to our mission are • Long-term direct trading relationships or sense of immediacy—for example, Producers must demonstrate to the the principles that all humans deserve • Payment of fair prices and wages The image of family farming is often implying that a farmer gathered the eggs Agency that the poultry has been allowed respect, the freedom to live with dignity • No child, forced or otherwise exploited assumed to suggest local, small scale early in the morning before rushing them access to the outside for at least 51% of and nurture community, and share labor and pasture-based production. However, to the store ready for purchase. However, it Food Alliance their lives. responsibility for preserving the earth’s • Workplace non-discrimination, gender this claim means nothing in terms of actually has no meaning or legal definition, resources for future generations. We equity and freedom of association how animals are managed, that specific and does not address the health and welfare Although free range is a positive sounding provide farms and food businesses with • Democratic & transparent organizations practices are employed to protect the of the animals. Farm fresh eggs can come term with a legal definition, consumers technical tools to improve work and trade • Safe working conditions & reasonable environment, the size of the farm or from caged hens in large industrial facilities. should be aware that the type of outdoor practices from farm to retail, including work hours socially responsible practices, for example. access provided (such as pasture or dirt extensive toolkits and templates, one- • Investment in community development Definition by Food Alliance Certified: lot), the size of the outdoor area, the length on-one technical assistance, and a projects of time the birds are required to have out- Food Alliance is a nonprofit organization stakeholder-driven certification program • Environmental sustainability door access, and how this must be verified Farmstead cheese that certifies farms, ranches, and food for high bar social justice standards • Traceability and transparency is not legally defined, and therefore varies Farm Check processors and distributors for sustainable —Food Justice Certification (FJC), the greatly from facility to facility. This claim agricultural and facility management gold standard for labor and trade A number of different fair trade certifiers provides no assurance of any other practices. By choosing Food Alliance practices in North America. and membership organizations now exist. high-welfare or environmental Certified products, consumers and Certifiers require an audit before allowing No independent third-party verification; management practices, and crowding commercial food buyers support safe Farms of any size and type can become the use of a Fair Trade label; membership Definition by Tyson Foods: No legal or regulated definition is not uncommon. and fair working conditions, humane FJC, as long as they are either certified organizations, however, only screen The Tyson Foods Farm Check animal treatment of animals, and good organic or engaged in sustainable agri- submitted information and may not carry A farmstead cheese label suggests the well-being program includes third-party environmental stewardship. culture. Third-party certifiers and worker out audits. Food Justice Certified and cheese is made on a farm using milk on-farm audits, an advisory panel of organizations carry out the certification Fairtrade International are examples of produced on that farm. Farmstead cheeses Free range animal well-being experts from around The Food Alliance livestock certification and inspection process for the FJC program. certified programs. For more information are usually made in relatively small aka Free roaming the country, and support of research on program uses both fixed and scored on Fair Trade certification and membership batches, often by hand. However, there for any meat excluding poultry improving animal live production. inspection evaluation criteria. While programs, visit the Fair World Project is no formal definition for this term and farms must comply with all fixed criteria, website at fairworldproject.org it does not address the farm’s husbandry Although Tyson Foods’ Farm Check practices or ensure outdoor access for the a farm may become certified based on Food Miles program standards and audit protocols animals producing the milk, for example. their average score in some key areas; at are not publicly available, information on lower levels of the standards, indoor or No independent third-party verification; Tyson’s website shows the company’s feedlot production is acceptable. Although No legal or regulated definition Family farmed supply farms are permitted to confine pigs farrowing and gestation crates are pro- No independent third-party verification; aka Family farm or Family farming indoors in concrete pens and use farrowing hibited for pigs as a baseline requirement, As free range is not legally defined, the No legal or regulated definition and gestation crates and teeth clip and Feedlot/Feed yard teeth clipping and tail docking piglets is type of outdoor access provided (such tail dock piglets under the Farm Check permitted. In other species, beak trimming as pasture or dirt lot), the size of the Claims about food miles relate to the program. For beef cattle, the Farm Check is permitted for laying hens (as long as it outdoor area, the length of time animals distance traveled by a given food product program permits the use of feedlots, while is carried out before birds are 10 days old) are required to have outdoor access, and No legal or regulated definition before you consume it. Since much of the Farm Check also permits intensive indoor No legal or regulated definition and tail docking is permitted for dairy cows. how this must be verified will vary greatly energy used in modern food production meat chicken and turkey production. Tyson Sheep and goats can be bought from non- from facility to facility. It might not even Generally refers to any farm where the is associated with processing, packaging, claims that third-party auditing will be A method of fattening cattle and other certified farms and their meat sold under be true, as producers are not required majority of the business is owned by transporting, storing and preparing food, required, but there is no information on ruminants where animals are removed from the Food Alliance logo as long as they to demonstrate to USDA that birds and the operator and/or individuals related many people want to reduce their carbon whether this will cover every Tyson supply pasture, confined in crowded conditions are on a certified farm for at least 60 animals have access to the outside. A free to the operator by blood or marriage, footprint by buying food closer to the farm every year or a proportion of farms. (usually on a dirt lot), and fed a grain-based days before slaughter. Consumers are range claim also provides no assurance of including relatives who do not reside in the source—in other words, food that is locally As Tyson considers its contract growers to diet until they reach market weight. As cattle encouraged to contact individual Food any other high-welfare or environmental operator’s household. As the vast majority grown and minimally processed. As there be independent from the company, Tyson and other ruminants are not biologically Alliance Certified producers about specific management practices. of farms in the U.S. and Canada are family is no legal definition, each food miles may even carry out the third-party audit equipped to digest large amounts of practices that are not included in the fixed farms, this term is not a point of difference. claim must be evaluated individually. themselves—despite their obvious vested grain, this can lead to the proliferation of criteria to ensure all possible areas of There is also growing concern this label interest in the outcome. pathogenic E. coli bacteria in the animals’ concern are being addressed.

14 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 15 and industry recognized food safety is the AquAdvantage Salmon, which as part of an audited slaughter review It is important to note that the use of this bison were given antibiotics or hormones, Fresh poultry practices. contains growth hormone genes that before the label can be used; however, this term does not infer any other positive or offer any other assurances about high- cause it to grow twice as fast as normal is not currently required for beef cattle and animal management practices, or that welfare. Although all grassfed label claims The USDA Guide on which the audits salmon. In the U.S., the authorization broiler chickens. animals were in fact 100% grassfed (see require official FSIS approval before use, are based only addresses microbial food to market the fish is superseded by the Grassfed). For example, the farmer or a signed statement (affidavit) from the safety hazards and good agricultural and requirement for FDA to first publish final rancher could use hormones or sub- farmer is typically considered “sufficient Definition by USDA Food Safety and management practices common to the labeling guidance to inform consumers therapeutic antibiotics, or carry out poor documentation” for approval; FSIS do not Inspection Service (FSIS): growing, harvesting, washing, sorting, about the GM content of food—something Grainfed welfare practices such as dehorning, and require any on-farm verification. As FSIS “Fresh” means whole poultry and cuts have packing and transporting of most fruits that could take years to resolve. Initial aka Supplemented or Finished still label meat as Grass-Based Farming. only consider the feeding protocol in their never been below 26°F (the temperature and vegetables sold in an unprocessed or proposals include QR codes on packages for ruminants label approval process, farmers or ranchers at which poultry freezes). This is consistent minimally processed (raw) form. It does not linked to a company website, which some could confine cattle or sheep on dirt feed- with consumer expectations of “fresh” cover environmental impacts of fruit and critics believe reduces transparency and lots for long periods outside the grass poultry, i.e., not hard to the touch or vegetable growing—for example, the use of limits information to those with access Grassfed growing season, or use routine growth frozen solid. pesticides and issues of pesticide residue to a smartphone. Currently the only way hormones and antibiotics, and still market are not considered or addressed. consumers can identify non-GMO foods No independent third-party verification; products with a grassfed label claim—just is through third-party certification. (See No legal or regulated definition as long as they fed animals cut grass or Certified Non-GMO by A Greener World, forage. Definition by USDA Food Safety and Frozen poultry Non-GMO Project Verified and Organic.) Implies animals were fed grain exclusively or as a supplement to a forage diet. Not Inspection Service (FSIS): USDA/FSIS also does not restrict Genetically modified companies to only being 100% grassfed verified and does not provide assurances Diet claims refer to what animals are and will allow companies to make other organisms (GMOs) about animal welfare or meat quality. fed prior to harvest and processing. diet and grassfed percentage claims based aka Genetically modified (GM) (See Feedlot/Feed yard.) These claims require that the animals Definition by USDA Food Safety and Global Animal on documentation supplied with the label or Genetically engineered (GE) only eat the diet claimed for the lifetime Inspection Service (FSIS): application—for example, “50% Grassfed, or Genetically improved foods (GIFs) Partnership of the animal, with the exception of milk Finished on Pasture with Supplemental Temperature of raw, frozen poultry is 0°F consumed prior to weaning. “Grass Fed” Grain Feeding.” While manufacturers must or below. Grainfed or “100% Grass Fed” claims may only be include the percentage of grass and forage for poultry applied to meat and meat product labels fed somewhere on the label, this allowance derived from cattle that were only (100%) No legal or regulated definition Definition by Global Animal Partnership: will add to confusion about grassfed claims fed grass (forage) after being weaned We are a non-profit alliance of producers, and could potentially lead to feedlot beef Fryer roaster turkey Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) from their mother’s milk. The diet must retailers, animal advocates and scientists bearing a grassfed claim. are plants and animals whose genetic be derived solely from forage, and animals dedicated to improving farm animal No independent third-party verification; makeup has been altered to exhibit traits cannot be fed grain or grain by-products In addition, the FSIS grassfed definition welfare through the 5-Step Animal No legal or regulated definition they would not normally or naturally and must have continuous access to is specific to meat. Yet there are increasing Welfare Rating. We facilitate continuous have, like resistance to certain chemicals pasture during the growing season until numbers of dairy products (from cattle, Definition by USDA Food Safety and improvement in farm animal agriculture Grainfed/grain-fed/grain fed implies that or pests, different chemical constituents, slaughter. Forage consists of grass (annual sheep and goats) marketed as grassfed Inspection Service (FSIS): across the world through our 5-Step birds were fed a vegetarian diet without longer shelf-life or a different color. Some and perennial), forbs (e.g., legumes, —including Grassmilk—without a clear Animal welfare standard and third-party actually specifying it. (See Vegetarian fed.) Young, immature turkey usually less than products are now described as Genetically Brassica), browse, or cereal grain crops definition of how animals are fed and certification. Global Animal Partnership 16 weeks of age, of either sex. Improved Foods or GIFs. In general, genes in the vegetative (pre-grain) state. Hay, managed. is committed to recognizing farmers and haylage, baleage, silage, crop residue are taken (copied) from one organism that Always seek independent third-party ranchers that exceed industry standards without grain, and other roughage sources displays a desired trait and transferred certification for absolute assurance that and strive to continuously improve animal Grass based farming may also be included as acceptable feed into the genetic code of another organism. grassfed-labeled meat and dairy products welfare. We work to empower consumers sources. Routine mineral and vitamin GAPs/GHPs More recently, a technique called gene come from animals raised on a 100% so they can make informed purchasing supplementation may also be included editing has been used in livestock research. forage diet, outdoors on pasture without decisions. in the feeding regimen. If incidental Gene editing does not introduce genes confinement, and without routine anti- No independent third-party verification supplementation occurs due to inadvertent from another species, but from the same biotics or hormones. To qualify for the GAP 5-Step Animal exposure to non-forage feedstuffs or to Definition by USDA Agricultural Marketing species. Welfare program, farmers only have to Definition by USDA National Agricultural ensure the animal’s wellbeing at all times Certified Grassfed by AGW is the only Service (AMS): There are significant concerns about the meet the basic requirements of the Step 1 Library: during adverse environmental or physical label to guarantee animals are managed Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) environmental impact of GM crops and level, which defines fully indoor production conditions, the producer should provide to high welfare standards, outdoors on Grass-based production relies on pasture and Good Handling Practices (GHP) are associated management practices, such for pigs and poultry and permits feedlot a signed and dated document to the pasture or range, as well as being 100% or rangeland to supply the protein and voluntary audits that verify that fruits as the increased use of environmentally finishing for cattle, sheep, goats and bison. establishment attesting the above grassfed for life. (See Certified Grassfed energy requirements of livestock. Grazing and vegetables are produced, packed, damaging herbicides. As GMOs do not Although GAP prohibits farrowing and incident is not a routine occurrence. by AGW, American Grassfed Association and forage feeding replace high grain handled, and stored as safely as possible have to be labeled, consumers have no gestation crates for pigs and cages for Certified, PCO 100% grassfed certified.) diets, close confinement and feedlot- to minimize risks of microbial food way of knowing whether they are eating laying hens, the standards for laying hens Consumers should be wary of any grassfed finishing during most or all of an animal’s safety hazards. GAP & GHP audits verify products that contain GMO ingredients, permits beak trimming at Steps 1 to 3, label claim not verified by a trusted third- lifetime. The producer focuses on pasture adherence to the recommendations made were produced by animals fed GMO feeds and beak trimming and toe tipping are party certification (see below). Unless plant and soil management, and proper in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s or came from genetically modified animals. permitted for turkeys at the same Step accompanied by an additional certification, stocking density and rotational grazing. Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety At the moment the only GM animal levels. Some of the GAP standards require a grassfed label refers only to the diet: it Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables authorized for sale in the U.S. and Canada that animals are stunned before slaughter does not indicate if cattle, sheep, goats or

16 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 17 certified claims to assure a 100% grassfed without third-party verification, there is Grass Fed program protocol, as listed under Grassfed. Heirloom no way of telling whether products were Humanely handled Inspected: produced by the seller and, in the case of for small and very meat, whether the animals spent all of custom/exempt small producers their lives on the same farm. In addition, this label claim does not guarantee animals Green fed No independent third-party verification; Definition by Meyer Natural Foods: were raised outdoors or any additional No legal or regulated definition high-welfare management practices. Meyer has created its own standardization Definition by USDA Food Safety and program for the humane handling of Inspection Service (FSIS): No independent third-party verification Heirloom crop varieties (also called farmers’ cattle. The Program includes the highest varieties or traditional varieties) is a term Custom/exempt processing activities are No independent third-party verification; levels of transparency, independence Definition by USDA Food Safety and used for unique plant varieties that are exempt from daily inspection and their No legal or regulated definition and integrity. The Program focuses Inspection Service (FSIS): genetically distinct from the commercial Hormone free products may not enter into commerce. on several additional aspects of the varieties popularized by industrial agri- aka No hormones The USDA Grass Fed Program for Small This term implies a difference from grass- production process including traceability, culture. Heirloom varieties have been and Very Small Producers was designed fed and suggests animals are fed green cattle housing, environmental protection, developed by farmers through years of to create opportunities for small-scale feeds, including vegetables, grass and disbudding, castration and transportation. cultivation, selection and seed saving, livestock producers who would like to have other forages. However, this term is not And while Meyer Natural Foods developed Integrated pest and passed down through generations. their ruminant animals certified as grass legally defined or independently verified, No legal or regulated definition the program, it is a USDA FSIS Approved Most heirlooms are varieties that have management (IPM) fed. This program is designed for producers and is not necessarily a positive claim Third-party Certified Process, and requires been in existence for a minimum of 50 who market 49 cattle or less each year or when it comes to environmental manage- This phrase is not permitted for use on third-party validation. All producers must years, although there is no legal definition. lambs produced from 99 ewes or less. ment, animal welfare or meat quality. the labeling of beef, pork or poultry, as comply with all standards in order to be This term does not refer to any specific animal proteins contain naturally occurring certified via the Program. This program requires that ruminant farming practices, such as avoidance of hormones regardless of the production Definition by U.S. Environmental animals be fed only grass and forage, pesticide or artificial fertilizer. Protection Agency (EPA): practice. (See No added hormones.) Although Meyer standards are available with the exception of milk consumed prior Halal or Zabiah Halal to the public, they are basic and it appears The use of pest and environmental to weaning. Animals certified under this that farmers only need to meet some of information in conjunction with available program cannot be fed grain or grain the standards to gain certification. Many pest control technologies to prevent by-products and must have continuous Heritage Humane of the standards state that farmers should unacceptable levels of pest damage by access to pasture during the growing aka Humanely raised or High welfare do something, rather than farmers must the most economical means and with the season. Definition by USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS): do something. The standards also permit least possible hazard to persons, property castration at up to 10 months of age and and the environment. For approval, farms must submit Meat products prepared by federally No independent third-party verification; disbudding/dehorning at six months of documents with details of their farm, inspected meat packing plants identified No legal or regulated definition age—practices that are known to result Some certification programs and food their livestock and their feeding program. No legal or regulated definition with labels bearing references to “Halal” in welfare issues—as well as confinement labels include IPM as a standard that This application must be renewed every or “Zabiah Halal” must be handled A term applied to breeds of livestock on feedlots. Although Meyer states that farmers must meet before certification. two years. There is no third-party audit Buyers should be cautious about label according to Islamic law and under that were bred over time so they are well- third-party validation is required, it is clear However, not all these programs require of the farm to check the claims. claims of humane or high welfare treat- Islamic authority. adapted to local environmental conditions, from their standards that only a proportion IPM performance to the same degree, and ment without independent third-party can withstand local diseases or survive in of sites will be audited each year; the some programs only incorporate minimal certification. A small number of credible For meat to bear the Halal label, animals challenging environmental conditions, for remainder will be certified by affidavit IPM requirements. There is no specific independent third-party agencies provide are often (but not always) slaughtered example. Heritage or traditional breeds (see Affidavit). verification program for IPM alone. Grass finished without being pre-stunned. Numerous generally have slow growth rates and long certifications to farmers who raise animals organizations audit and certify for productive life spans outdoors, making in accordance with specific production Halal practices, but definitions and them well-suited for grazing and pasturing. practices, such as providing an environ- standards vary according to the certifying However, the term heritage on a food label ment in which the animals can engage in natural behaviors; being raised with Inspected: USDA Irradiation No independent third-party verification; organization. USDA Halal is not verified. does not guarantee animals were raised sufficient space where they are able No legal or regulated definition outdoors or any additional high-welfare management practices. to lie down; having shelter and gentle handling to limit stress; and the provision Not to be confused with grassfed, this of a healthy diet without antibiotic growth Definition by USDA Food Safety and Definition by USDA Food Safety and term implies that animals are fed grass Hen or Tom turkey promoters or hormones. In addition, high- Inspection Service (FSIS): Inspection Service (FSIS) and forage for an undefined period before welfare labels should always include a slaughter (the finishing period). However, Home grown Inspection refers to which agency over- Food irradiation is the process of exposing third-party review of slaughter practices they may have been given grains and sees a slaughter facility. Both state and food to radiant energy in order to reduce as part of their certification procedures. other non-forage feeds for a large part federally inspected plants must follow or eliminate bacteria, therefore making Definition by USDA Food Safety and (See Animal Welfare Approved.) of their lives. This feeding protocol is not the same guidelines, but state-inspected it more resistant to spoilage. Forms Inspection Service (FSIS): verified and any prohibited feedstuffs No independent third-party verification; products may not enter into interstate of radiant energy include: microwave and medications are also not defined. In The sex designation of “hen” (female) or No legal or regulated definition commerce. and infrared radiation, which heat food addition, this claim provides no assurance “tom” (male) turkey is optional on the during cooking; visible light or ultraviolet of any other high-welfare or environmental label, and is an indication of size rather Home grown is a phrase that may be light, which are used to dry food or kill management practices. Seek third-party than the tenderness of a turkey. applied to meat and vegetables. However, surface microorganisms; and ionizing

18 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 19 radiation, which penetrates deeply into This term implies food and agricultural (such as: no added colorings or artificial management, animals can fall ill and need “no hormones added” cannot be used food, killing microorganisms without products are produced, processed and ingredients; minimally processed). No animal treatment. If farmers cannot sell an animal on the labels of pork or poultry unless raising the temperature of the food sold within a certain region, whether that has been treated with antibiotics it is followed by a statement that says significantly. Food is most often irradiated defined by distance, state or regional As defined by USDA, the term natural by-products under a particular label, and are forced to “Federal regulations prohibit the use of commercially to reduce the numbers of boundaries. There is often an expectation applies only to how meat is processed after aka Not fed animal by-products sell into a lower value market, they may hormones.” pathogenic microorganisms, to extend that locally grown products will come from slaughter. Research by Consumer Reports choose to withhold treatment instead, shelflife, or to eliminate insect pests. small scale, environmentally friendly and reveals 60% of consumers look for the leading to suffering or the further spread Although hormones cannot be used for high-welfare systems. However, as the natural label when buying meat, while of disease. It is worth noting that farmers raising hogs or poultry, some companies Irradiation is a process of using high- term is unregulated, individuals can define almost half mistakenly assume it means No independent third-party verification; cannot legally slaughter an animal treated still use this label claim to make it appear energy Gamma rays, electron beams or the locally grown claim based on their own the animals lived outdoors on pasture No legal or regulated definition with antibiotics for a specified period, so their products are different from others X-rays to kill potential pathogens in food. objectives. where they can express natural behaviors. there should be no antibiotic residue in or that the company is making a special The amount of radiation used can vary However, the natural claim does not refer This term implies that no products derived any meat. concession to animal welfare or human and the number of pathogens affected in any way to how animals are raised, so the health. The reality is that any pork or from animals were used in livestock feed. A ‘no antibiotics ever’ approach adopted by irradiation can be variable. Food that farming system may have involved feedlot poultry product could utilize this label While the term no animal by-products by some certifications and food manu- has been irradiated must either include MSC and confinement systems, tail docking and claim. Although the company is legally might appear self-evident, there is no legal facturers will not stop antibiotic abuse in irradiated as part of the product name or other mutilations, or the routine use of required to include text saying “federal Marine Stewardship Council definition of what constitutes an animal food animal production, and could lead be labeled with the claim, ‘treated with antibiotics, for example. There is currently regulations prohibit the use of hormones,” by-product, so a variety of animal-derived to a two-tier system where some animals irradiation’ or ‘treated with radiation,’ and a campaign led by Consumers Union this wording often appears in very small ingredients, such as milk or fishmeal, may may have treatment withheld, while others also display the Radura symbol. Although calling on FDA to either ban this term lettering at the bottom of the label. still be included under this label. are routinely treated. The solution is the FDA requires labeling on whole irradiated entirely or redefine it in a meaningful way. responsible use of antibiotics on all farms, fruits and vegetables, there is no require- Definition by MSC: where animals are raised in conditions that ment to use the treated with irradiation The MSC works with scientists, fisheries, minimize the risk of illness and are given statement on processed foods made No hormones added/ seafood producers and brands to promote No antibiotics added treatment only when needed. Labels that with irradiated ingredients or on spices. Naturally raised sustainable fishing and safeguard seafood aka No antibiotics administered work on this basis include Animal Welfare administered supplies for the future. We set credible USDA rules regarding labeling of irradiated for red meat and poultry Approved and Certified Humane. for beef and dairy cattle foods are similar to the FDA’s regulations, standards for sustainable fishing and but only apply to meat and poultry. Unlike supply chain traceability. Organizations FDA, USDA requires the listing on the meet these standards in order to demon- Statement by USDA Food Safety and package of any irradiated meat ingredients strate the sustainability of their products. Inspection Service (FSIS): No antibiotics added in multi-ingredient products, such as The blue MSC label makes it easy for Definition by USDA Food Safety and Definition by USDA Food Safety and The term is not allowed to be used on aka No antibiotics administered sausages. everyone to choose seafood which has Inspection Service (FSIS): Inspection Service (FSIS): been caught by fisheries which care for a label. for eggs and dairy products The term “no hormones administered” the environment. The terms “no antibiotics added” may This label claim used to be regulated be used on labels for meat or poultry may be approved for use on the label of beef products if sufficient documentation MSC standards cover three core principles: by FSIS, but was withdrawn in early 2016. products if sufficient documentation is Kosher is provided to the Agency by the producer The fishery must be managed sustainably, It is now listed as an unapprovable claim provided by the producer to the Agency showing no hormones have been used in minimize environmental impact and have and should not be used on food labels. demonstrating that the animals were No independent third-party verification; raising the animals. an effective management system. All parts However, some companies still use this raised without antibiotics. No legal or regulated definition of the supply chain must pass third-party description of their meat on websites Hormones are commonly used in the Definition by USDA Food Safety and audit to MSC standards before the label or in blogs. Antibiotics are routinely given to intensively Farmers cannot legally sell milk or eggs commercial farming of animals such as Inspection Service (FSIS): is used. farmed cattle, hogs, sheep and chickens from dairy animals and laying birds treated to prevent or manage diseases, and with antibiotics for human consumption cattle to speed the growth rate or increase “Kosher” may be used only on the labels to promote growth. Although USDA for a specified period, so this label claim is milk production. (In dairy cattle, see rBST/ of meat and poultry products prepared No additives is accountable for proper use of ‘no misleading. rGBH free.) Although USDA is accountable under Rabbinical supervision. Natural/All natural antibiotics’ label claims, no independent for proper use of this claim, there is no third-party verification system is in place. independent third-party verification For meat to bear the Kosher label, animals system in place. must be slaughtered without being pre- Some labels in this guide have an audited No independent third-party verification; stunned and according to Kosher principles. ‘no antibiotics ever’ requirement in their No hormones added/ No legal or regulated definition No independent third-party verification standards; examples include Organic, administered American Grassfed Association and Global No additives is a general claim that a for pork or poultry Non-GMO Project Definition by USDA Food Safety and Animal Partnership. Under such programs, product has not been enhanced with the Inspection Service (FSIS): animals that become sick and are treated Verified Locally grown addition of natural or artificial additives. with antibiotics cannot be sold using the A product containing no artificial USDA and FDA define and regulate certification label. A ban on antibiotics ingredient or added color and is only additives; however, as there is no USDA might seem like a good thing. Overuse of Definition by USDA Food Safety and minimally processed (a process which definition of the specific term—or how it is antibiotics in farming can lead to antibiotic Inspection Service (FSIS): Definition by Non-GMO Project: No independent third-party verification; does not fundamentally alter the raw used—anyone using the term may or may resistance, where medically important No legal or regulated definition product) may be labeled natural. The label not be referring to this legal regulation. Hormones are not allowed in raising The Non-GMO Project is a mission-driven antibiotics become ineffective when we must explain the use of the term natural hogs or poultry. Therefore, the claim non-profit organization offering a third- get sick. However, even with the best

20 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 21 party non-GMO verification program livestock or poultry is not bioengineered are prime, select and choice. For veal to the standard consumers expect. We when the food or feed ingredients have No spray/ Organic PCO* 100% Grassfed and lamb the top three grades are prime, are the pioneer and established market not been genetically modified through aka Certified organic *Pennsylvania Certified Organic choice and good. These terms are only leader for GMO avoidance. We have set the use of modern biotechnology. pesticide free valid if they are accompanied by the the industry standard for non-GMO USDA shield. Because FSIS does not have the ability verification since the Butterfly first to independently verify negative claims Quality grades serve to identify the eating appeared on store shelves in 2010. for ingredients or feed, FSIS has required characteristics of the product. They are No independent third-party verification; Definition by USDA Agricultural Marketing Definition by PCO: establishments that make these [non- a guide to identify the tenderness and Concerns about genetically engineered No legal or regulated definition Service (AMS): GMO] claims to comply with standards The PCO 100% Grassfed certification palatability of the meat. Quality grades crops (or genetically modified organisms, established by a third-party certifying All products sold as “organic” must meet program establishes an optional additional exist for beef, lamb, veal and mutton. Pork GMOs) have led to the emergence of GMO/ A no spray claim implies that no pesticides, organization. FSIS currently requires that the USDA National Organic Program certification scope for operations that are is not graded with USDA quality grades GE-free or non-GMO/GE label claims, such herbicides or fungicides are used. However, the third-party certifying organization’s production and handling standards. certified organic under the USDA National and although poultry may be graded A, as the Non-GMO Project Verified Product unlike the legally defined term organic, this standards be publicly available on a web Certification is mandatory for farmers Organic Program regulations. The B or C, only Grade A poultry is likely to program. Given the negative environmental claim is not verified by an independent site and the label or labeling disclose the selling more than $5,000 of organic program standards apply to producers be seen at retail level. impacts associated with GM crops, such third-party. web site address of the third-party cert- products per year, and is verified by of ruminant livestock and to handlers of as the significant increase in herbicide ifying organization. FSIS currently requires an accredited certifying agency. meat and dairy products derived from The grade of the meat does not provide use, the objective of the program (to help that the establishment demonstrate that ruminant livestock. any information on how the animal that consumers avoid products containing its claims of third-party certification are In general, organic production limits the produced it was managed. Feedlot beef GMOs) is laudable. However, the Non- truthful and not misleading. No till use of chemicals, pesticides, hormones, PCO 100% Grassfed certification is an is more likely to grade prime than grassfed GMO Project’s standards do not address aka minimum till or conservation tillage antibiotics and other inputs. However, optional module available to farms that are beef because the high corn diet of feedlot any wider environmental or welfare issues This recent ruling by USDA/FSIS means it does not strictly define production also certified organic. The standards cover finished beef leads to more fat in the meat. associated with intensive livestock farming, that non-GMO claims can only be made practices related to space per animal or both meat and dairy animals. (See also for example. Without additional third-party if the product has been audited by a third- outdoor access requirements that can have Grassfed.) assurance, such as Animal Welfare Approved, party certification body with clear and significant welfare implications for animals meat or livestock products displaying the No independent third-party verification; transparent non-GMO standards. This is —for example, confinement feedlot areas Non-GMO Project logo would only mean No legal or regulated definition Raw a good thing for consumers who want to are permitted to fatten organic beef cattle. any livestock feed was free from GMOs, be sure the food they are buying really is And while slaughter plants taking organic Pesticide free and could therefore come from animals A method of planting crops with little non-GMO. However, the same concerns livestock are audited for certain aspects, raised intensively indoors or finished or no plowing (or other soil cultivation) noted for the Non-GMO Project apply such as the type of cleaning products used, on feedlots, with all the associated to reduce soil erosion. Highly likely to No independent third-party verification; here: Simply certifying Non-GMO does they are not audited for welfare practices. environmental and welfare issues. involve herbicides for weed control, with No legal or regulated definition not address any wider environmental or In addition, the Non-GMO Project’s the associated potential environmental For information about the National Organic No independent third-party verification; welfare issues associated with intensive standards only apply to meat animals impacts. Program, and use of the term organic on No legal or regulated definition This term typically refers to foods, such as farming. The only third-party label that themselves and ignore the feed given to labels, refer to the factsheets ‘Organic milk, cheeses, cider, vinegar, sauerkraut or currently offers a Non-GMO assurance breeding stock that are nursing animals Food Standards and Labels: The Facts’ Implies that no pesticide residue can be almonds, that have not been pasteurized and addresses these wider animal welfare that will later be sold as non-GMO meat. and ‘Labeling and Marketing Information’ found on the crop. It does not address if (heat treated) to a minimum of 145°F. and environmental concerns is Certified Omega 3 enriched from USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. pesticides, herbicides or fungicides were Certified Non-GMO by AGW is the only Non-GMO by AGW. (See also Certified applied at other points in production. food label to guarantee food products Non-GMO by AGW and Non-GMO are not only produced without GMO feed, Project Verified.) Raw milk cheese supplements or ingredients, but also No independent third-party verification; Pasture raised come from animals raised according to the No legal or regulated definition aka Pastured Quality grade highest animal welfare standards in the aka Yield grade industry. (See Certified Non-GMO by AGW.) No nitrates/nitrites Eggs sold as omega 3 enriched often come No independent third-party verification from hens fed a special diet of flaxseed, which is high in omega 3. Omega 3 fatty No legal or regulated definition Definition by Raw Milk Cheesemakers acids are good fats that scientists believe Definition by USDA Food Safety and Association: No legal or regulated definition Non-GMO/GE can improve the health of the heart and Implies animals were raised outdoors on Inspection Service (FSIS): Cheese produced from milk that, prior the brain. pasture. However, unless a third-party Nitrites are commonly used to preserve The USDA primarily grades meat by the to setting the curd, has not been heated certification program defines and regulates meat and prevent botulism food poisoning. Meat and dairy products from true amount of marbling—or intramuscular above the temperature of the milk this term, there is no way to ensure if any However, some studies link the high intake grassfed animals and eggs from pastured fat—that is present. Cuts of meat with (104°F, 40°C) at the time of milking and Definition by USDA Food Safety and claim is accurate. of nitrites to an increased risk of stomach hens will naturally have higher levels of the greatest amount of fat within the that the cheese produced from that milk Inspection Service (FSIS): and pancreatic cancer. Some cured meat omega 3 without dietary additions. However, grain of the meat are awarded the highest shall be aged for 60 days or longer at The terms “genetically modified,” and bacon sold as no nitrates added may without additional third-party assurance grades. Graders evaluate the amount and a temperature of not less than 35°F (2°C) “genetically engineered (GE)” or “bio- have been cured with ingredients that are to verify pasture-raised production, eggs distribution of marbling in the rib eye in accordance with U.S. FDA regulations. engineered” are generally synonymous. still high in nitrates. sold as omega 3 enriched are highly likely muscle at the cut surface after the carcass Labels or labeling may claim that a food to come from industrially raised hens fed has been ribbed between the 12th and This claim does not give any information or feed ingredients used in the raising of a special diet containing flaxseed. 13th ribs. The top three grades for beef about how dairy animals were managed

22 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 23 and whether this was an intensive or the field since the late 1990s at more A wine can make the claim “Sulfite Free” committed to working with partners Ensuring the health and well-being of pasture-based system. than 700 farms in Oregon, Washington, Stress free if there are no detectable sulfites, or and stakeholders toward sustainability hens is a top priority for U.S. egg farmers, California, Idaho, and British Columbia No Added Sulfites—Contains Naturally of diverse agricultural, forest and range while providing safe, high-quality eggs to across a variety of crops environment Occurring Sulfites.” However, if the total systems. USDA seeks to balance the you and your family. To ensure egg safety sulfites in the wine are above 10 parts per goals of: and the highest quality care to hens, the Salmon Safe works with regional partners million the label must state “Contains United Egg Producers developed UEP rBST/rBGH free • Satisfying human needs. —including the organic certifier Oregon Sulfites.” Certified, a voluntary animal well-being • Enhancing environmental quality, the Tilth—to audit and certify farms, parks, No independent third-party verification; program. When you purchase eggs with resource base, and ecosystem services. golf courses and other businesses that are No legal or regulated definition the UEP Certified seal, rest assured eggs • Sustaining the economic viability of following their standards to protect land, are produced under these guidelines: No independent third-party verification; agriculture. water, fish and wildlife resources. The claim that animals are raised in a No legal or regulated definition Sulfured/Unsulfured • Enhancing the quality of life for farmers, • Strict biosecurity measures protect food stress-free environment can be found on ranchers, forest managers, workers and safety and hen health. a variety of meat and poultry products. rBST (recombinant bovine somatotropin) society as a whole. • All employees are trained to treat birds However, as there is no legal definition or and rGBH (recombinant bovine growth with care at all times, and all sign a code requirements on how the animal is raised, hormone) are hormones used to boost Soy free No independent third-party verification; Sustainable farming is generally considered of conduct for proper animal handling. intensively indoor raised pigs and poultry milk production in dairy cattle. Research No legal or regulated definition as farming that is socially just, high welfare, • An annual compliance audit is conducted and feedlot beef may still carry this label. suggests their use has serious welfare economically viable and environmentally by independent third-party inspectors. implications for dairy cattle and have Many dried fruits are treated with sulfur to sound. The term is, however, unregulated • Nutritious feed (with no added been found to leave residues in the milk. No independent third-party verification; keep them from oxidizing during and after and not legally defined when it comes hormones), clean water and fresh air are To avoid consumption, seek third-party No legal or regulated definition the drying process. This preserves their to its use on food labels, and is therefore available at all times. certifications that prohibit its use, such Sub-therapeautic original color and acts as a preservative. widely used—and sometimes misused— • Programs to induce molt through feed as Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Soy has been shown to transfer through aka Non-therapeautic use of antibiotics Unsulfured fruits are often dark brown to promote food animal products. Always withdrawal are prohibited. Humane or Organic. animal feed to food product. Some people in color. seek out third-party certification to ensure • Hens are provided adequate space wish to avoid soy for diet, allergy or other a product meets your expectations for based on scientific recommendations. reasons. sustainable production. • Cage free houses include space for nests No independent third-party verification; and perches. Salmon Safe No legal or regulated definition Sustainable agriculture As 87.5% of all hens in the U.S. are kept Special fed veal This term refers to the administration Transitional in cages, the UEP Certified logo is widely of antibiotics when animals or birds are found on egg cartons from caged systems. While UEP states their program provides Definition by Salmon Safe: not sick or injured, but for the purpose of promoting growth or overcoming disease hens with “adequate space,” the actual No independent third-party verification amount required per bird is between 67 Founded by Pacific Rivers Council, No independent third-party verification; challenges that are inherent in the system No independent third-party verification; and 86 square inches—or less than a sheet Salmon-Safe is now an independent No legal or regulated definition of farm management. For example, cattle No legal or regulated definition nonprofit based in Portland, Oregon. Our on feedlots may be given low doses of Definition by Congress in the 1990 Farm of letter paper per bird. The UEP program Bill: also permits beak trimming by infrared mission is to transform land management The majority of veal produced in North non-therapeutic antibiotic treatments to While some certifiers are beginning to treatment at the hatchery and by cutting practices so Pacific salmon can thrive in America is special fed veal. This term prevent illness from liver damage due to The term sustainable agriculture means offer transitional certification, transitional the beak with a hot blade when chicks are West Coast watersheds. applies to young beef/dairy animals fed the grain-based diet they are fed. These an integrated system of plant and animal is typically an unofficial term implying that practices are now directly linked with the up to 10 days old. Salmon-Safe works with farmers to controlled liquid diets that maintain the production practices having a site-specific a farm is in the process of moving towards dramatic rise in life-threatening, multiple encourage the adoption of ecologically calf in a state of anemia, producing a pale application that will, over the long term: organic certification, and is sometimes fine-textured meat. Veal calves are unlikely antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and the used on products produced by farms in sustainable agricultural practices that • Satisfy human food and fiber needs. to be offered any grass/forage as this potential loss of these vital medicines for transition to organic certification. Farmers protect water quality and wildlife habitat • Enhance environmental quality and the can affect the color of the meat. Calves human health. (See No antibiotics added.) must practice organic methods for three USDA Process in West Coast salmon watersheds. natural resource base upon which the are generally slaughtered at 15–20 weeks years on a given area of land before the Operations endorsed by our independent agricultural economy depends. Verified Program of age. These production systems often products harvested from that land can professional certifiers are promoted with • Make the most efficient use of provide limited space, with no requirement be sold or labeled as certified organic. the Salmon-Safe label. nonrenewable resources and on- for bedding or outside access, and are Sulfite free (See Organic.) farm resources and integrate, where The Salmon-Safe farm certification generally considered as providing extremely aka no added sulfites/contains sulfites appropriate, natural biological cycles Definition by USDA: program is focused on management poor animal welfare. Also referred to as for wine and controls. practices in six primary areas: riparian Formula-Fed, Milk-Fed or Nature Fed Veal. The Process Verified Program (PVP) • Sustain the economic viability of farm area management, water use manage- involves a comprehensive quality operations. United Egg Producers ment, erosion and sediment control, management system review, which allow • Enhance the quality of life for farmers integrated pest management and water certified companies to market their products using Definition by The Bureau of Alcohol, and society as a whole. quality protection, animal management, the USDA PVP shield. The PVP allows Tobacco and Firearms (ATF): and biodiversity conservation. Our companies to develop their own marketing Definition by USDA Office of the Chief standards were developed over a two- Sulfite or sulfur dioxide is commonly used claims, such as a feeding claim. PVP Economist: year period with biologists, agronomists, as a preservative in wines, but can cause Definition by United Egg Producers (UEP): companies are required to develop a quality and farmers, and have been tested in allergic reactions in some individuals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is manual and AMS verifies the company’s

24 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 25 adherence to those processes through manufacturing of ingredients routine audits. Labels require the approval • Contain no known animal-derived of USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection GMOs or genes used to manufacture Service (FSIS). For example, companies ingredients or finished products must have a quality policy, conduct internal audits, and continue to strengthen Not all vegan foods use the Certified and improve their program. Because of Vegan claim or logo; and even if the logo this comprehensive quality management is used, the program is based on written system, companies generally undergo submissions from the company wanting fewer audits each year as compared to to display it—not audits. other AMS programs. Specific examples of programs verified by USDA PVP are: Source verification of animals; genetic traceability; never fed or given hormones, Vegetarian-fed antibiotics, or animal protein in feeds; aka Fed a vegetarian diet animal raising claims; feeding claims

The USDA PVP is a review and audit service carried out by USDA officials, designed to verify whether a company No independent third-party verification; is meeting their own stated production No legal or regulated definition protocols, rather than an independent definition of a particular food label claim. This claim suggests animals are fed a diet The USDA PVP logo offers no guarantee free of animal products. It does not mean of high-welfare or sustainable production animals were raised outdoors on pasture or practices, for example; it simply verifies a were fed a 100% grassfed diet, for example. food product is being produced according to the standards a company has committed themselves to meet. Although site audits form part of the USDA PVP accreditation Vine-ripened process, in most cases a sample of sites aka Tree-ripened involved in production are reviewed—not all the sites that might supply product.

No independent third-party verification; Vegan No legal or regulated definition aka Certified vegan Fruit that has been allowed to ripen on the vine or tree. Many fruits that are shipped long distances are picked while still unripe and firm, and later treated with ethylene gas at the point of distribution to ripen and No independent third-party verification soften them. This term does not mean the fruit is pesticide-free, organic, non-GMO, Definition by Vegan Awareness Foundation: sustainable or family farmed. Vegan Awareness Foundation requires that products approved to carry the Certified Vegan Logo must: • Not contain meat, fish, fowl, animal by-products (including silk or dyes from insects), eggs or egg products, milk or milk products, honey or honey Download the bee products • Involve no animal testing of ingredients FOOD LABELS or finished product by supplier, producer, EXPOSED app manufacturer or independent party • Provide supplier verification that animal products were not used in the

26 A GREENER WORLD FOOD LABELS EXPOSED 27 With so much negativity around food and farming today, A Greener World serves as a beacon of positive change. We exist to promote and support real-life farming models to the public and to offer practical guidance on achieving truly sustainable livestock farming systems to farmers.

We believe the way we farm, the nutritional quality of the meat, milk and eggs produced, and the impact of farming systems on wildlife, the environment and wider society are all connected. Our goal is to offer a ‘one-stop shop’ for anyone interested in food, farming and sustainability, providing simple solutions based on your own personal concerns. We’re proud of our reputation among consumer groups, farmers and the wider food industry as a pragmatic organization driven by practical science and common sense.

Our growing family of trusted certifications includes Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Grassfed by AGW and Certified Non-GMO by AGW. Each program is designed to have positive and measurable impacts on the environment, society and animals, and to encourage truly sustainable farming practices. AGW’s standards and procedures are robust, transparent and achievable.

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