Page 14 - September2023

Reading the Labels

Decoding Egg Carton Labels:

A Guide to Conscious Consumption

In today’s marketplace, consumers poultry had access to the outdoors.
are often bombarded with a myriad of The USDA mandates that “free-range”

labels and terms on food products, and poultry must have outdoor access, but
a product as simple as eggs is not an the specifics about the quality, size, or

exception. With rising concerns about duration of this access remain vague.
the quality of food we eat and its impact This term is primarily used for chicken
on our health, understanding these labels and turkey. To ensure genuine free-

has never been more crucial. This article range practices, consider certifications
aims to clarify common terms found on like Animal Welfare Approved, Global

egg cartons, helping you make informed Animal Partnership, or USDA Organic.
choices that align with your preferences.
“Pasture-Raised” term: hens producing

Let’s start with the term “Cage-Free.” The pasture-raised eggs enjoy free outdoor
term suggests improved living conditions access and natural forage. This results in

for egg-laying hens. However, while the nutritionally superior eggs, rich in omega-3
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) fatty acids, vitamins D and E. The vibrant
may verify a producer’s cage-free claim, orange yolk of pasture-raised eggs is a

it doesn’t specify the amount of space testament to their enhanced nutritional
provided to the chickens. Often, cage-free profile. While they might be pricier,

environments still lack adequate space choosing pasture-raised eggs supports both
for hens to lead a natural lifestyle. It’s your health and ethical farming.
worth noting that “cage-free” doesn’t have

a universal legal definition, leading to Have you seen “Humanely Raised” label?
inconsistencies across producers. This label, although sounding appealing,

unfortunately, lacks a concrete legal
“Free-Range” label implies a more definition. Without clear parameters
humane treatment, suggesting that and regular inspections, its authenticity

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