HFAC Releases Data Comparing National Humane Food Labeling Standards

(Herndon, VA) December 21, 2010 – Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) today released a comprehensive, side-by-side comparison of major U.S. animal welfare labels used in agribusiness.  The chart analyzes the five leading food labeling programs dedicated to animal welfare:  Certified Humane®, Animal Welfare Approved, Global Animal Partnership (Whole Foods), USDA/Organic and American Humane Certified.  The data also compares the five food labeling programs to current standard practice for animal treatment in U.S. food production.

To view the chart please visit: www.certifiedhumane.org

According to Adele Douglass, CEO of HFAC, “More and more consumers are looking to purchase food they can be assured comes from farm animals raised under humane guidelines.  The challenge is the many labels in the marketplace can be confusing and sometimes misleading.  The comparison we’re releasing today is designed to show what each label means and what level of protection animals are guaranteed under specific programs.  By consulting the chart the consumer can now make a healthier and more informed decision when purchasing food.”

Douglass noted that the data shows the Certified Humane® label is the clear leader in providing humane care for animals used in food production.  She added that the Animal Welfare Approved (AWA) program has the highest pasture based standards.  In addition, Certified Humane®, Animal Welfare Approved and the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Organic Standards are the only labels that are transparent.

“You don’t have to shop at an expensive specialty stores to find the Certified Humane® label.  Our products are sold in over 4,000 retailers nationwide,” Douglass concluded. To find a retailer near you that carries Certified Humane® products please visit the HFAC website at www.certifiedhumane.org

Endorsed by more than 36 humane organizations, the Certified Humane Raised and Handled® program is nationally recognized as the Gold Standard for certifying animal welfare.  HFAC’s Animal Care Standards were developed by top national and international animal scientists and farm-animal welfare experts.  Producer compliance with the HFAC standards is verified through annual on-site visits by HFAC’s third-party inspectors.

The Certified Humane® designation assures consumers that meat, poultry, egg, or dairy products they purchase have been produced according to HFAC’s precise standards for humane farm animal treatment. Animals must receive a nutritious diet without antibiotics or hormones and must be raised with shelter, resting areas and space sufficient to support natural behavior. Since the HFAC program was unveiled in May 2003, more than 60 companies, representing hundreds of farms and millions of farm animals, have been certified.

For more information about the Certified Humane Raised and Handled® program:  www.certifiedhumane.org