Many eco-friendly consumers tout the benefits of a meat-free diet. Yet plenty of green-minded folks wish to remain carnivores while optimizing their health, reducing their carbon footprint, and discouraging animal cruelty and factory-farming tactics. Looking for the "certified organic" label can help achieve these goals.
Environmental Benefits
According to certification from the USDA National Organics Program, organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality. Organic animal farms must follow conservation practices that preserve natural resources.
Less Toxins
Organic meat, eggs, dairy and poultry products contain less toxins than conventional versions, as they come from animals that are not given antibiotics or growth hormones. The animals eat organic forage and grains, and raised on farms that utilize organic pest control. In addition to hormones and chemicals, mass produced meat also may contain additives, such as nitrates for color.
Humane Farming
Certified organic products often come from animals raised with a "free-range" lifestyle. They are able to roam with unrestricted access to water, food, sunshine and fresh air. Conventional and factory farms confine animals to one location for a long period of time. By supporting the organic meat industry, you are also supporting more humane treatment of animals.
Breast Milk
Another benefit of organic meat is its effect on the breast milk of nursing mothers. A study published in the British Journal of Medicine suggests that pregnant mothers who consume organic meats have a higher quality of breast milk. The breast milk was found to contain higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid or CLA, a "good" type of fat that aids immune system development in newborns.
Look for the USDA Label
While "free range" refers to meat from animals allowed to roam in the outdoors, it doesn't necessarily mean the products are organic. Some animal food products may be labeled "natural," which does not certify them as organic unless they have a "certified organic" seal from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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