What is the difference between “organic,” “natural,” and “free-range” chicken?
It is a common misconception that “natural” or “free-range” chicken is the same thing as “organic” chicken. This is not the case. Significant differences exist among the three. Certified organic farms are required to follow the strict standards of USDA’s National Organic Program. The organic certification process is the “guarantee” to consumers these rules are being followed. There are no such standards or inspections for natural, pastured, and conventional chicken.