Each consumer has a different idea of what “natural” and “organic” food means. Many businesses have learned to take advantage of this, and it's important to educate yourself on what you are really purchasing when you see these labels. Please take a moment to read the following, and perhaps visit the websites below to learn more about what “natural” and “organic” really means.

What does “Natural” mean?

Under current U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, the definition of “natural” is limited. Meat may carry the natural label as long as it contains no artificial ingredients (color, flavor, preservatives, etc.) and is minimally processed. Natural production methods must be documented. In popular usage, the term natural commonly refers to beef that has been raised mostly on pasture, without routine use of medication. The feed for natural cattle is not necessarily organic.

Considering that no specific definition of natural exists, we label our beef as “pasture-raised” and “grass-fed” so you can have a better sense of how it is different. Our cattle are fed all-natural vegetarian diets, with no growth hormones or antibiotics. Our meat is minimally processed, with no artificial ingredients or preservatives.

What does “Organic” mean?

Today many food products are labeled “organic”. In many consumers’ minds, organic is about humane treatment of animals, lack of pesticides and artificial ingredients, and environmental responsibility. According to the Sustainable Table website, “Organic agriculture is becoming more popular because consumers are demanding healthful and environmentally friendly food. In theory, organic agriculture strives to preserve the land for generations to come, but increased demand has interested large agribusiness corporations who intend to profit from the trend.”

The best alternative to organic is to purchase foods from local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture, which goes beyond specific organic principles.

Kilcoyne Farms beef is not officially certified “organic,” but we are committed to all the principles of sustainable farming and organic production. This commitment is strongly reflected in the humane way we raise our animals and in the ways we enhance, rather than deplete, the quality of soil, water, and air.

Where to Learn More

For comprehensive information on the health related, environmental and animal welfare benefits of raising animals on pastures visit www.eatwild.com

Sustainable Table is an introduction to issues surrounding today’s agricultural system and what is happening with our food, in particular, the meat supply. This site explains the issues, offers suggestions on what you can do to help, directs you to more in-depth information, and introduces the exciting and hugely popular sustainable food movement exploding around the world. Their site is www.sustainabletable.org