The Saveur 100 : Our Favorite Foods, Restaurants, Recipes, People, Places and Things

Food labels assure us that our chickens are free-range and our leafy greens are certified organic – but no official standards exist for labels touting the humane rearing of animals destined for the table. At least, none did until 2003, when Humane Farm Animal Care, a nonprofit consortium of veterinarians, scientists and animal welfare groups, began offering strict, objective, third-party inspections to dairy, poultry, lamb and beef producers. Once inspectors have determined that animals are being raised free of hormones and antibiotics in a safe, healthful environment, producers may label their products “Certified Humane.” Twenty products have been certified, among them, Murray’s chicken and Pete & Gerry’s eggs.