A recent regulatory request from Perdue Farms seeking clarification on poultry label claims has garnered support, including backing from the Cornucopia Institute, a food policy think tank. Perdue’s March 2023 filing with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) aims to refine the definitions of “pasture-raised” and “free-range” label claims in alignment with consumer expectations.
The Cornucopia Institute, in response to Perdue’s filing, submitted comments endorsing the need for FSIS to update its guidance on claims related to poultry living conditions. Policy Director Kestrel Burcham emphasized that “free range” should be distinct from “pasture-raised,” advocating for a separate and specific definition for the latter. According to the Institute, “pasture-raised” should pertain to chickens spending a majority of their lives on vegetative cover pastures rooted in soil.
Various organizations, including the American Pastured Poultry Producers Association and the American Grassfed Association, have also expressed support for Perdue’s request. The consensus among these groups is for clearer definitions that accurately reflect the conditions under which poultry is raised, addressing consumer expectations and promoting transparency in labeling practices.
