Pasture-raised
Pasture-raised refers to livestock, such as chickens, cows, and pigs, raised outdoors on pasture land, where they can graze and forage for a significant portion of their diet. This method prioritizes animal welfare, allowing animals to roam freely and express natural behaviors, such as pecking, rooting, or grazing, rather than being confined to indoor or restricted environments.
What it is?
Pasture-raised animals generally can access open, grassy areas with supplemental feed as needed. Still, their primary diet comes from natural forage like grass, plants, and insects (in the case of poultry). The term is often associated with sustainable farming practices emphasizing humane treatment, healthier, nutrient-rich animal products, and reduced environmental impact.
How it applies?
Specific pasture access requirements can vary, as there is no single, regulated standard for "pasture-raised" labeling so that practices may differ by farm or producer.
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