What is Pasture-Raised?
Pasture-raised means animals have continuous access to outdoor pasture where they can graze, forage, root, or peck depending on the species. This is fundamentally different from 'free-range,' which may only require brief outdoor access. Pasture-raised animals live primarily outdoors, with shelter available for protection from extreme weather.
Why Pasture-Raised matters
Pasture-raised products are nutritionally superior to their confined counterparts — higher in omega-3s, vitamins, and beneficial fats. The animals live healthier, less stressful lives, which means fewer antibiotics and medications. And pasture-based systems, especially with rotational grazing, can improve soil health, sequester carbon, and support biodiversity.
What to look for
Ask how much time animals actually spend on pasture and how much space they have. Look for farms that practice rotational grazing, which moves animals regularly to fresh pasture. The best pasture-raised operations will have photos showing animals on green grass with ample space — not crowded dirt lots.
