GREEN & SUSTAINABLE

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Green Choices: Meat & Poultry Buyer's Guide

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"Natural": What does it mean?

When it comes to buying meat and poultry, the greener choices are not always obvious.

Natural (beef, pork, lamb, poultry)

No additives or preservatives were introduced after the meat or poultry was processed. (Certain sodium-based broths can be added to poultry and pork labeled “natural.”) This term does not ensure organic feed. The term “natural” is often confused with “naturally raised,” a term proposed by the USDA that would mean the animals were not given antibiotics and/or growth hormones.

• Health benefits: Natural meats have no nitrites or nitrates, preservatives that have been linked in some children and women to various types of cancer.
• Eco-benefits: “Natural” has no substantial environmental benefit.
• Is it regulated? It is a term defined by the USDA but not regulated.
• Keep in mind: “Natural” alone says nothing about how an animal was raised.

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More beef and poultry labels

• Grass Fed
• Certified Organic
• Certified Humane

 

Learn more

• Greener Pastures: When it comes to beef, is grass-fed better?
• Avoid overcooking your meat by following our preparation tips.
• Can’t find grass-fed beef? Check out our source list.