There is a growing concern for the ethical treatment of animals in the food production industry. Consumers are now increasingly mindful of ethical practices, seeking assurance that the products they purchase come from humane sources. To demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining ethical standards, many companies have adopted animal welfare certification programs such as Global Animal Partnership (GAP), American Humane, and Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW. These certification programs ensure that animals are treated humanely throughout every stage of the production process.
At True Grade, we prioritize partnering with producers who place a premium on animal welfare. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it also results in healthier, more natural, and better-tasting products. This resonates with customers like Royal Caribbean, who increasingly prioritize ethically sourced products and reinforce True Grade’s core values. As a prominent cruise line, Royal Caribbean is transparent about the sustainability of its supply chain, particularly when it comes to sourcing food products. Sustainable sourcing practices are achieved through close collaboration with suppliers who adhere to recognized standards and certifications, such as those provided by Global Animal Partnership.
Global Animal Partnership (GAP): A Leader in Animal Welfare Certification
Global Animal Partnership (GAP) established a comprehensive Animal Welfare Certification Program. Their mission is to improve farm animals’ lives by collaborating with farmers, producers, and retailers.
GAP has developed a tiered system based on specific animal welfare standards. Ranging from Step 1 to Step 5+, each tier represents different actions farmers take. These actions protect product integrity and enhance animal lives, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
Moreover, GAP collaborates closely with farmers and producers to ensure they meet each tier’s requirements. This collaboration includes providing animals with adequate space, proper nutrition, and appropriate handling techniques. Additionally, GAP conducts regular audits to ensure compliance with the program’s standards.
By implementing these standards, GAP fosters a healthier and more ethical farming environment. Consequently, consumers benefit from knowing their choices support better animal welfare practices. Overall, GAP’s Certification Program plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable and humane agriculture.
- Base Certification: Animals are afforded certain basic welfare standards, such as no cages or crates and sufficient space to move around.
- Enriched Environment: Providing animals with an enriched environment that goes beyond the basic requirements of Step 1. The additional space and environmental enhancements are designed to support the animals’ well-being and encourage natural behaviors.
- Outdoor Access: Providing enhanced outdoor access, allowing animals to be outdoors continuously, weather permitting. The additional space and outdoor access contribute to improved animal welfare by allowing them to express natural behaviors and have a more diverse environment.
- Pasture Raised: Animals have continuous access to the outdoors, including pasture, allowing them to graze and engage in natural behaviors.
- Animal Centered: Places the well-being and needs of animals at the forefront of decision-making and practices.
5+ Entire Life of Farm
Providing an animal-centered, pasture-based environment. This step represents the highest level of welfare in the 5-Step program. Animals in Step 5 have the most space, with continuous access to the outdoors and pasture, allowing them to express natural behaviors, graze, and move freely.
Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW:
Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW is a rigorous animal welfare program for family farms in the United States and Canada. Their focus is prioritizing pasture-based systems and sustainable practices across various products. Ensuring high standards for meat, dairy, eggs, and poultry, the certification emphasizes animals’ access to fresh air, clean water, and ample space for natural behaviors.
AGW collaborates closely with farmers, conducting thorough audits to enforce compliance with stringent criteria for animal care, environmental impact, and transparency. As a company committed to transparency and ethical sourcing, True Grade recognizes the significance of supporting these certifications.
American Humane
American Humane created the first welfare certification program in the United States dedicated to ensuring the humane treatment and responsible care of farm animals. Their certification, the American Humane Certified label, signifies adherence to rigorous standards covering aspects such as appropriate housing, feeding, and veterinary care.
Through regular audits, American Humane verifies compliance, promoting transparency and accountability in the farming industry. Coleman Natural Foods has garnered recognition for its commitment to gestation crate-free pork production, responding to growing consumer concerns about the humane treatment of animals in the food production industry. Coleman Natural Foods emphasizes the well-being of animals through their commitment to five important areas of animal care:
- Diet & Hydration: Coleman ensures that animals receive proper nutrition and access to clean water.
- Environment: Coleman provides animals with comfortable living conditions, considering space, cleanliness, and overall well-being.
- Management & Care: Effective animal management includes responsible handling, regular health checks, and addressing behavioral needs.
- Health & Safety: The health and safety of the animals are paramount. Coleman implements healthcare programs and veterinary care to prevent and address illnesses or injuries. This proactive approach contributes to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for the animals.
- Transportation: Humane transportation practices minimize stress and discomfort, aligning with ethical animal care standards.
Animal Welfare Certifications are a crucial tool for promoting the humane treatment of animals and supporting sustainable agriculture. By choosing products with reputable certifications, we can make a difference and contribute to a more compassionate and ethical food system. Let’s prioritize animal welfare and make conscious choices that benefit both animals and consumers.