Cracking the Code Certified Organic The only USDA-regulated label. Requires that hens get outdoor access and feed without GMOs, antibiotics, or animal products. Biodynamic As certified by Demeter USA, farms using this label must follow organic standards, build soil health, and protect biodiversity. Pasture Raised This Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) certification means birds must be outdoors on rotated, vegetation-covered pasture for a minimum of 6 hours every day, with 108 square feet of space per chicken. Omega-3 Hens’ diet is fortified with flaxseed, which can increase the beneficial, brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids in their eggs by more than 100%. Certified Humane An HFAC label requiring that hens have space to move around and care from trained handlers. Vegetarian Hens’ feed is free of animal protein. Could mean no chance to forage. (Hens are by nature omnivores and will eat insects if given the chance.) Free Range Although this might sound like it means the same thing as pasture raised, it just signifies that outdoor access must be provided for a minimum of 6 hours per day with 2 square feet of space per bird. Cage Free Uncaged birds, typically with no outdoor access. United Egg Producers Certified Leave these eggs on the shelf. Birds are caged or housed cage-free indoors, beaks are sheared, and feed includes GMOs and antibiotics. The article “What the Labels on Egg Cartons Actually Mean” originally ran on RodalesOrganicLife.com.
