Grass-Fed & Pasture-Raised
When you can, choose meat, poultry and eggs raised on pasture, and learn which label words are certified and which are just marketing.
Why it matters
Animals raised on pasture, without routine antibiotics or added hormones, generally give you cleaner, better-tasting food. It costs more because it genuinely costs more to raise, the price reflects the real cost of good farming.
Labels that are certified (trust these)
USDA Organic (includes rBGH-free), Animal Welfare Approved, American Grassfed, Certified Humane, and Food Alliance. A real certifying seal is doing real work.
Labels that are just words
On their own, without a certifying seal, terms like ‘Natural,’ ‘Naturally raised,’ ‘Free-range,’ ‘Grass-fed’ and ‘Vegetarian-fed’ aren't regulated and don't guarantee much.
And the eggs
‘Free-range’ or ‘cage-free’ alone doesn't mean the hens ate a clean diet. Look for Certified Humane, Animal Welfare Approved, or American Humane Certified.
If the budget only stretches so far, prioritize pasture-raised for the animal foods you eat most. One good choice you make often beats a perfect choice you make rarely.