Farm Animal and Meat Quality Standards

Here's a brief summary of our benchmark standards by species:

Cattle/Buffalo

• No antibiotics — ever
• No supplemental growth hormones
• No animal byproducts in feed
• Range raised for at least 2/3 of the animal's life

Veal Calves

• No antibiotics — ever
• No supplemental growth hormones
• Group housing only, no tethering or individual crates
• No animal byproducts in feed other than cow's milk
• Unlimited access to grain

Pigs

• No antibiotics — ever
• No animal byproducts in feed
• No gestation crates
• Sows provided freedom of movement in farrowing (birthing) pens
• Bedding required to satisfy natural rooting instincts

Lamb

• No antibiotics — ever
• No supplemental growth hormones
• No animal byproducts in feed
• Pasture raised

Poultry

• No antibiotics — ever
• No animal byproducts in feed
• No beak trimming for broiler chickens and game hens
• Appropriate beak trimming for turkeys allowed when necessary*
• Appropriate litter provided for comfort and to satisfy natural foraging instincts

Note: Federal law does not allow the use of supplemental growth hormones in any poultry or pigs sold in the United States.

* We allow the performance of physical alterations only when the overall physical and psychological welfare of the flock or herd would be benefited to prevent possible injury and only when conducted by a trained operator in an appropriate manner that minimizes any discomfort.