Understanding Common Grocery Store Labels - Meat

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.

Meat Labels

1. Grass-Fed

   • What It Means: The animals are fed primarily on grass instead of grain.

   • What to Know: This diet is more natural for cattle and results in leaner, more nutritious meat.

2. Grass-Finished

   • What It Means: The animals ate only grass for their entire lives.

   • What to Know: Some animals are grass-fed but finished on grain to add weight. Grass-finished is more consistent with a natural, forage-based diet.

3. Organic

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

   • What to Know: Organic meat standards are strict, and organic certification is a good indicator of cleaner, more sustainably-raised meat.

4. Antibiotic-Free

   • What It Means: The animals were not given antibiotics.

   • What to Know: Some labels might say “raised without antibiotics” or “no antibiotics ever,” which usually means antibiotics were avoided for the entire lifecycle.

5. No Added Hormones

   • What It Means: Animals were not given hormones to promote growth.

   • What to Know: Hormones are not allowed in poultry or pork production by law, so this label is often seen only on beef.

6. Humanely Raised

   • What It Means: There are no legal standards, but it implies the animals were treated well.

   • What to Know: This term can vary between companies; look for third-party certification (e.g., Certified Humane) for more reliable standards.

7. Natural

   • What It Means: Minimal processing and no artificial ingredients.

   • What to Know: “Natural” only applies to the processing of the meat, not how the animal was raised. This label can be misleading.

8. Pasture-Raised

   • What It Means: Animals are allowed to graze outdoors on pasture.

   • What to Know: Pasture-raised animals have a more natural lifestyle, but the specific conditions may vary by farm.

Learn more about Dairy 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!