What is the difference between organic, natural, free-range, and grass-fed meat?
It is a common misconception that natural, free-range, or grass-fed meat is the same thing as certified organic meat. This is not the case. Significant differences exist between them. Certified organic farms are required to follow strict standards from the USDA’s National Organic Program, and are inspected by an independent third party each year for compliance. These standards prohibit the use of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, and pesticides, and require humane animal treatment. The organic certification process is the guarantee to consumers these rules are being followed. Additionally, our cooperative inspects the farms of our members for compliance with our pasturing requirements which meet and exceed USDA standards.
