Understanding Common Grocery Store Labels - Eggs

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.

Egg Labels

1. Cage-Free

   • What It Means: The chickens aren’t kept in cages, but they usually live indoors with limited space.

   • What to Know: Cage-free doesn’t mean outdoor access or free roaming; it only means they aren’t confined to cages.

2. Free-Range

   • What It Means: Chickens have some access to the outdoors.

   • What to Know: Outdoor access could be limited to small areas or short time periods.

3. Pasture-Raised

   • What It Means: Chickens are raised outside on pasture for most of the day and have access to fresh forage.

   • What to Know: This label is usually seen on smaller farms and indicates better animal welfare.

4. Organic

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

   • What to Know: Organic certification has strict standards, but it doesn’t always mean the chickens were raised on pasture.

5. Vegetarian-Fed

   • What It Means: Chickens are not fed any animal by-products.

   • What to Know: Chickens are naturally omnivores, so vegetarian feed isn’t necessarily natural but avoids animal by-products.

Learn more about MEAT Labels here —> or Learn more about Dairy 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!