When shopping for beef, you’ve probably noticed a variety of label claims on the packaging at your grocery store. While all beef is nutritious and raised responsibly, these labels reflect different production practices requested by some consumers. Here’s a breakdown of what some common beef labels mean:
Grain-Finished (Most Common)
Cattle spend the majority of their lives eating grass/forageFor the last 4-6 months, cattle are finished at a feedyard eating a balanced diet of grains, local feed ingredients like potato hulls, and hayCattle may or may not receive FDA-approved antibiotics to treat/prevent illness or hormones.
Grass-Fed or Grass-Finished
- Cattle eat only grass, forage, hay or silage for their entire lives
- May or may not receive antibiotics or hormones
Naturally Raised (“Never Ever”)
- Cattle never receive any antibiotics or added hormones
- May be either grain- or grass-finished
- May spend time at a feedyard
Certified Organic
- In addition to never receiving antibiotics or hormones
- Cattle feed must be 100% certified organic by USDA
- May be grain- or grass-finished
It’s also good to know that all beef from federally inspected plants must meet USDA food safety standards, no matter what the label says. And over 90% of U.S. cattle farms are family-owned and operated.
You may see other marketing claims referencing breed, where cattle were raised, animal welfare standards and more. No matter which you choose, you can feel good knowing all beef provides high-quality protein and nutrients. Let your personal preferences be your guide when deciphering the beef labels.