The USDA Definition of "Natural"
For many, the word 'natural' evokes images of pasture-raised birds roaming free on a farm. Unfortunately, the reality behind the labeling is far less romantic. According to the USDA, the term "natural" can be used on meat and poultry products if it meets two criteria: the product contains no artificial ingredients or added color, and it is only minimally processed. Minimal processing is defined as a process that doesn't fundamentally alter the raw product.
This is where consumer perception and legal definition diverge. The USDA's standard for "natural" focuses solely on the post-slaughter handling and processing of the meat. It does not regulate or certify the animal's living conditions, diet, or health treatments while it was alive. A chicken raised in a conventional, overcrowded shed on a diet of conventional grain can still be labeled "natural" as long as the finished product adheres to the minimal processing rules.
To aid clarity, the USDA mandates that products bearing a "natural" claim must also include a brief statement clarifying its meaning, such as "minimally processed, no artificial ingredients".
Debunking the Hormone Myth
One of the most persistent myths surrounding chicken production is the use of added growth hormones. It is a fact that federal law has prohibited the use of added hormones and steroids in all US poultry since the 1950s. Therefore, any chicken product sold in the United States—conventional, natural, or organic—is free of added hormones. The claim "No Hormones Added," which must be followed by a statement explaining that federal regulations prohibit their use, is often a marketing tactic to imply a higher quality product.
Antibiotics: A Significant Distinction
While hormone claims are marketing fluff, antibiotic use is a very real and important distinction between different types of chicken. For chickens not explicitly labeled as "No Antibiotics Ever," producers may use antibiotics to treat or prevent disease in their flocks. However, before these birds are processed, a mandatory "withdrawal" period is required to ensure no antibiotic residues are present in the meat sold to consumers.
For consumers concerned about the broader public health implications of antibiotic overuse in agriculture, such as the potential for antibiotic-resistant bacteria, looking beyond the simple "natural" label is crucial.
Natural vs. Organic vs. Conventional Chicken
Understanding the differences between common supermarket labels can be confusing. The table below helps to clarify the key distinctions in how chickens are raised under these different designations.
Comparison Table: Natural vs. Organic vs. Conventional Chicken
| Feature | Natural Chicken | Organic Chicken | Conventional Chicken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing | Minimally processed | Minimally processed (part of organic) | Can be heavily processed |
| Artificial Ingredients | No artificial ingredients or colors | No artificial ingredients or colors | May contain artificial ingredients |
| Hormones Added | No (illegal in all US poultry) | No (illegal in all US poultry) | No (illegal in all US poultry) |
| Antibiotic Use | Can be raised with antibiotics | No routine antibiotic use (only for illness, which invalidates organic status) | May be routinely given antibiotics |
| Diet | Not specified (can be conventional feed) | 100% organic, non-GMO feed | Can be conventional, GMO, or animal byproducts |
| Outdoor Access | Not required | Required access to the outdoors | Not required (often confined) |
| Certification | USDA definition (no certification required) | USDA Organic certified (requires annual audit) | No specific certification related to raising practices |
The Rise of Other Label Claims
Beyond the primary labels, many other terms appear on poultry packaging that offer further—but not always comprehensive—information. These include:
What "Vegetarian Fed" Means
This term indicates that the feed contains no animal byproducts, which is a key component of organic standards. However, it does not mean the feed is organic or free of GMOs, and the label does not prevent antibiotic use. It is worth noting that chickens are naturally omnivores and would typically eat insects if given the opportunity.
The "No Antibiotics Ever" Seal
This is a specific and meaningful label for consumers concerned about antibiotic use. It confirms that the chicken was never administered antibiotics for any reason during its life, a stricter standard than the general 'natural' label.
Understanding "Free-Range" and "Pasture-Raised"
- Free-range: The USDA requires producers to demonstrate that birds have access to the outdoors. However, the interpretation of "access" can vary widely and does not specify the quality, size, or duration of outdoor time.
- Pasture-raised: This label, which has no official USDA definition, generally indicates that chickens spend a significant amount of time outdoors on pasture. Standards are typically set by third-party certifiers.
Decoding the Labels for Health-Conscious Consumers
Making an informed choice requires consumers to look past the marketing. Prioritizing your concerns is the first step. If animal welfare and environmental impact are top priorities, then the USDA Organic seal, which includes standards for feed, outdoor access, and antibiotic use, is the most comprehensive federal label. For those specifically focused on avoiding antibiotics, the "No Antibiotics Ever" label is the most direct guarantee.
Conversely, if your primary goal is to avoid artificial ingredients in your food, the "natural" label provides that assurance, but it's important to remember it says nothing about the animal's life. Understanding the true meaning of these labels allows consumers to align their purchasing decisions with their personal values, whether those are centered on health, ethics, or budget.
Conclusion: Natural is Not What It Seems
In summary, the term "natural chicken" is primarily a legal designation for minimal processing, not a comprehensive indicator of how the chicken was raised. It offers little insight into the animal's living conditions, diet, or antibiotic use. Consumers seeking higher standards for animal welfare, diet, and responsible antibiotic use should look for more specific certifications like USDA Organic or "No Antibiotics Ever." The widespread use of the "natural" label often misleads consumers, but by understanding the nuances, you can make a truly informed choice when shopping for poultry. For further information on common poultry labels, visit the National Chicken Council.
