The prevalence of terms like “natural,” “sustainable,” and “cage-free” on food labels is hard to miss while shopping at your local supermarket. However, many consumers are left wondering about the actual meaning behind these buzzwords. Are they regulated terms or just marketing jargon? The truth is, food brands are aware of the desire among shoppers to make informed purchases, and they sometimes take advantage of that desire.
According to Melissa Nelson, a professor of Indigenous sustainability at Arizona State University, food labeling is crucial because consumers hold a lot of power in their purchasing decisions. Nelson states, “Buying is an endorsement and vote of confidence.” However, the challenge lies in the fact that food labeling is not standardized, leaving consumers in the dark about the exact meaning behind these terms.
Establishing standard definitions and regulations for food terminology could potentially simplify matters for consumers. However, it would also mean that farmers would have to bear the financial burden of obtaining certifications. So, while it may be beneficial to consumers, it comes at a cost to the farmers.
To shed some light on the subject, let’s delve into the meanings behind some common terms found on food packaging.
Certified Organic: Regulated By USDA
The term “organic” is familiar to most people, but not everyone is aware that farms and food producers can only claim this label if they have been certified. Lena Brook, the acting director of food and agriculture at the Natural Resources Defense Council, explains that “‘Certified organic’ is a term defined by federal law.” To obtain and maintain certification, farmers and producers must adhere to specific guidelines. These guidelines include avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and implementing practices like composting and crop rotation to maintain the health of the soil.
Look for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s certified organic seal to ensure a product’s organic status. Selling a product as “organic” without adhering to USDA requirements can result in a financial penalty. However, it’s worth noting that some small farmers may grow organically but choose not to be certified due to the high costs and time commitment involved.
Cage-Free: Regulated By USDA
When it comes to eggs, there are different methods of raising hens. “Cage-free” may sound appealing, but the reality may not be as expected. Craig Schmidt, the owner of Shaded Grove Farm Market in Mississippi, explains that hens in cage-free farms have freedom of movement within a large confinement house, where thousands of hens may reside. These hens are often subjected to artificial lighting to maximize egg production. While they are not kept in cages, their environment is still far from natural.
Free-Range: Regulated By USDA
The phrase “free-range” may evoke images of hens roaming freely outdoors. However, the truth may differ from the perception. Schmidt explains that the term can be elusive and vary depending on the label. Generally, free-range hens have access to small doors in their barns that lead to the outdoors. While they have the choice to go outside, the barns themselves are stationary and provide limited outdoor space.
If given the choice between cage-free and free-range eggs, Schmidt argues that free-range eggs are a better option. However, it’s important to note that the distinction is still minimal.
Genetically Modified, Genetically Engineered, and Biologically Engineered: Regulated By FDA, USDA, and EPA
Multiple terms are used to describe manipulated and modified foods, such as “genetically modified organisms,” “genetically engineered,” and “biologically engineered.” The FDA, USDA, and EPA work together to regulate and permit these foods in the U.S. Genetically modified food refers to organisms whose DNA has been manipulated, often by inserting genes from other species. The disclosure of genetically modified foods is not always mandatory, but the USDA maintains a list of bioengineered foods.
Non-GMO: Regulated By A Nonprofit
If you’re concerned about genetically modified organisms in your food, the nonprofit Non-GMO Project provides verification for companies that produce products without GMOs. According to Nelson, people deserve to know what they are consuming, especially when it comes to genetically manipulated foods. The non-GMO label on products indicates that food companies understand consumers’ desire to avoid ingredients derived from genetic engineering techniques.
However, as Charles Rosen, the CEO of Ironbound Farm, points out, the non-GMO label does not encompass the entire story of the food’s origins. It doesn’t reflect the farming system or the chemicals used during processing.
Local and Locally Sourced: Regulated By USDA, But Not Nationally
The terms “local” and “locally sourced” are frequently used but can have different meanings depending on the label. According to Brook, “locally sourced” typically indicates that the food was produced within a certain radius of the point of sale. While some USDA programs have defined parameters for what “local” means in the context of farming, there is no national definition. People often confuse “local” with concepts like sustainability or organic farming, assuming that it comes from small, family-owned farms. However, this is not always the case.
Natural and 100% Natural: Regulated By USDA for Meat and Poultry
The terms “natural” and “100% natural” are commonly seen on ingredient lists as a way to market a product as healthy. However, Rosen argues that “natural” is not a meaningful marketing term since it can be broadly defined and doesn’t differentiate between ingredients derived from chemical-intensive agriculture and those grown via eco-friendly methods. The USDA defines “natural” as minimal processing without artificial ingredients, but this regulation only applies to meat and poultry.
Pasture-Raised: Regulated By USDA
The term “pasture-raised” reflects a philosophy of raising animals outdoors throughout their entire lifespan. Rosen explains that pasture-raised animals are given the opportunity to indulge in natural behaviors such as grazing, foraging, and wallowing. Schmidt adds that these animals spend their entire lives outdoors on pastures or woodlands. Raising animals in this way offers numerous benefits for their quality of life and the environment. However, it’s important to note that some products labeled as “pasture-raised” may not adhere to this definition and may instead be misleading marketing.
Grass-Fed and -Raised: Unregulated
As herbivores, cows naturally eat grass. However, most cattle are fed a corn diet to fatten them quickly. While “grass-fed” might be seen on packaging, it is unregulated and doesn’t guarantee that the cows were solely fed grass throughout their lives.
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