Understanding the Applegate Difference: Organic vs. Natural
Applegate is a well-known brand that has built its reputation on producing meat without antibiotics. However, it's crucial for consumers to understand the differences between their 'Organic' and 'Natural' product lines. While all of their products meet certain criteria, only those explicitly labeled 'Applegate Organics' are certified to the federal USDA Organic standards.
The company is transparent about its two separate standards. The 'Natural' line guarantees the meat is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients. In contrast, the 'Organic' designation signifies a much broader set of requirements that govern everything from the chicken's diet to its living conditions. Knowing how to differentiate these labels empowers consumers to make informed choices based on their personal standards for food sourcing.
What "USDA Organic" Means for Applegate Chicken
For a product to be labeled 'Applegate Organics', the chicken must be raised according to the rigorous standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture. This involves a comprehensive approach to farming that dictates several key practices:
- The chickens are raised on certified organic feed, which is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- They are never administered antibiotics or fed animal by-products at any point during their lives.
- The chickens are given outdoor access, promoting more natural behavior.
- They are raised with third-party verified animal welfare standards, often including certifications like Global Animal Partnership® (GAP).
The Separate Standards of Applegate Natural Chicken
The 'Applegate Naturals' line also adheres to important standards, but they are not the same as organic. These products are made from animals that are also raised humanely and without antibiotics. However, the feed for the 'Natural' chickens is not required to be organic, meaning it can be grown using synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, though it is Non-GMO Project Verified. While still a step up from conventional poultry, the 'Natural' label does not carry the same full-spectrum assurance as the 'Organic' one.
How to Identify and Verify Applegate Organic Chicken
The easiest way to determine if a specific Applegate chicken product is organic is to look for the USDA Organic seal. This green and white seal is a federally regulated label that guarantees the product has been certified by an authorized third party. All products in the Applegate Organics line will prominently feature this seal, typically on the front of the packaging.
Key Indicators on the Label
- Product Name: The name will include the word "Organic," such as "Applegate Organics® Chicken Nuggets".
- Ingredients List: The ingredients panel will list "Organic" before the ingredients, for example, "Organic White Meat Chicken".
- Third-Party Certifications: In addition to the USDA Organic seal, you may also see other logos like "Non-GMO Project Verified" and animal welfare certifications like "Certified Humane®" or "Global Animal Partnership®".
Comparison Table: Applegate Organic vs. Natural Chicken
| Feature | Applegate Organic Chicken | Applegate Natural Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | USDA Certified Organic, Third-Party Verified (e.g., QAI) | Non-GMO Project Verified |
| Antibiotics | Never administered, ever | Never administered, ever |
| Feed | Certified Organic, Non-GMO | Non-GMO, but not necessarily organic |
| Pesticides | Not used on feed crops | May be used on feed crops |
| Hormones | Federal law prohibits use of added hormones in poultry | Federal law prohibits use of added hormones in poultry |
| Outdoor Access | Provided, as part of organic standards | Animals are humanely raised, but outdoor access is not explicitly required by the 'natural' standard |
The Role of Animal Welfare in Applegate's Standards
Applegate emphasizes animal welfare across both its organic and natural lines. The company works with third-party certifiers like Global Animal Partnership® (GAP) and Certified Humane® to ensure animals are raised with care and respect. However, organic certification adds another layer of oversight to these welfare practices, including outdoor access and environmental enrichments that promote natural behaviors. This commitment to higher standards, particularly for their organic line, sets them apart in the meat industry.
Conclusion: Read the Label to Be Sure
In summary, the answer to "Is Applegate chicken organic?" is that some of it is. The key is to differentiate between the 'Applegate Organics' line and the 'Applegate Naturals' line. While both are antibiotic-free and non-GMO, only the organic products are raised on certified organic feed and meet the full range of federal organic standards. To ensure you are purchasing organic chicken, always look for the USDA Organic seal on the packaging. Your decision ultimately depends on your preference for food that meets the comprehensive criteria of organic farming, or the less stringent, though still robust, standards of their natural products.
For more information on the distinctions between organic and natural labeling, refer to the official USDA website. USDA: Understanding the Organic Label
