The Certified Humane Raised & Handled program is an inspection,
certification and labeling program for meat, poultry, egg and
dairy products from animals raised to humane care standards.
The program is a voluntary, user-fee based service available
to producers, processors and transporters of animals raised
for food. The purpose of the program is to provide independent
verification that the care and handling of livestock and poultry
on farms enrolled in the program meet high quality humane animal
care standards.
The
Animal Care Standards require
that livestock have access to clean and sufficient food and
water; that their environment is not dangerous to their health;
that they have sufficient protection from weather elements;
that they have sufficient space allowance in order for them
to move naturally; and other features to ensure the safety,
health and comfort of the animal. In addition, the standards
require that managers and caretakers be thoroughly trained,
skilled and competent in animal husbandry and welfare, and have
good working knowledge of their system and the livestock in
their care.
The standards were created by a team of Animal Scientists, and
Veterinarians with expertise in farm animal issues During creation
of the standards, the team reviewed the latest research and
consulted established standards, such as those in use by the
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)
in England, and other standards and guidelines recognized for
the proper care of animals. Input was also obtained from producers.
Andronico's Market,
Sprouts,
Whole Foods and Alaska's own
Natural Pantry are just a few who carry the Certified Humane products.
Check out their latest video on their home page -
www.certifiedhumane.org