Understanding Common Grocery Store Labels - Dairy

Ever been confused by the different labels on meat, eggs, and dairy products in the grocery store? You’re not alone! Here’s a quick guide to help you understand what these terms actually mean, so you can make the best choices for your family and support the values you care about.

Dairy Labels

1. Grass-Fed

   • What It Means: Cows primarily eat grass instead of grains.

   • What to Know: Grass-fed dairy is often higher in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, resulting in more nutritious milk.

2. Organic

   • What It Means: Cows are raised without antibiotics or hormones and are fed organic, non-GMO feed.

   • What to Know: Organic dairy certification means cows are treated according to strict animal welfare and feed standards.

3. rBGH-Free or rBST-Free

   • What It Means: The milk is from cows that were not given artificial growth hormones to increase milk production.

   • What to Know: Most milk is now rBGH/rBST-free, but the label ensures it.

4. Non-GMO

   • What It Means: The feed given to dairy cows does not contain genetically modified organisms.

   • What to Know: This is commonly paired with organic certification, but it can stand alone as well.

5. Raw Milk

   • What It Means: Milk that has not been pasteurized (heated to kill bacteria).

   • What to Know: Raw milk is illegal to sell in some states because it can carry bacteria, but many people value it for its natural enzymes and probiotics.

6. A2 Milk

   • What It Means: Milk that comes from cows producing only the A2 type of beta-casein protein, rather than the more common A1 protein.

   • What to Know: Some people find A2 milk easier to digest than regular milk, which contains both A1 and A2 proteins.

7. Cage-Free

   • What It Means: This term doesn’t apply to dairy cows but can appear on dairy products like yogurt and cheese when referring to eggs included in the product.

   • What to Know: Cage-free refers to laying hens, so it’s only relevant if eggs are an ingredient.

Learn more about MEAT Labels here —> or Learn more about Egg Labels here —>

Quick Tips for Choosing Quality Meat, Eggs, and Dairy

1. Look for Specific Labels – Terms like "Certified Organic," "Grass-Fed and Finished," and "Pasture-Raised" have specific standards and are more reliable.

2. Avoid Vague Labels – Terms like “Natural” and “Humanely Raised” can vary widely. Look for third-party certifications for more assurance.

3. Know What Matters to You – Each label represents different values. Whether you prioritize animal welfare, nutritional quality, or environmental impact, choose what aligns with your values.

4. Ask Your Local Farmer! – Buying local often means you can ask directly about how animals were raised. Support farms you trust.

Learn More at Forest Farmhouse

At the Forest Farmhouse, we’re committed to raising our animals with the utmost care and respect. If you have any questions about labels or want to know more about our regenerative farming practices, feel free to reach out!