2024

AGA NEWS & PRESS

  • The Benefits of Grassfed Farming: Prioritizing Natural Practices and Sustainable Agriculture


    Grassfed farming goes beyond producing nutrient-rich food—it embodies agricultural methods that respect animals’ natural behaviors and promote environmental sustainability. By focusing on pasture-based systems, these methods allow animals to graze freely, fostering healthier ecosystems and ensuring high-quality products for consumers.

    The American Grassfed Association (AGA) plays a pivotal role in supporting these practices, providing certifications that highlight transparency and commitment to grassfed and pasture based(hogs and poultry) farming principles. This article explores the many benefits of grassfed farming,  pasture based(hogs and poultry) emphasizing its positive impact on animals, ecosystems, and communities.

    What Is Grassfed and Pasture-Based Farming?

    Grassfed farming  pasture based(hogs and poultry) is centered on raising animals on a natural diet of forage, brassicas, and browse. Unlike conventional farming systems that rely heavily on grain feed, grassfed farming prioritizes animals’ access to open pastures. AGA-certified farms go a step further, ensuring that pasture-based systems are the foundation of their operations.

    For hogs and poultry, supplementary feed may be used to meet specific nutritional needs, but pasture access remains a key component. This balance maintains the integrity of grassfed principles while addressing the unique requirements of each species.

    The Advantages of Grassfed Farming

    Encouraging Natural Behaviors

    Grassfed farming allows animals to graze, forage, and interact with their environment as nature intended. This approach promotes healthier and more active animals, resulting in products that are higher in nutritional value.

    Healthier Animals, Healthier Food

    Animals raised on pasture-based diets tend to have better overall health compared to those raised in confinement. This translates into meat, dairy, and eggs, which are richer in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Studies also indicate that grassfed products may have fewer saturated fats and more heart-healthy compounds.

    Sustainability in Action

    Grassfed farming contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for resource-intensive grain production. Grazing animals also play a crucial role in soil regeneration, helping to prevent erosion, increase organic matter, and improve water retention. These practices create a cycle that benefits both the land and the animals.

    Grassfed Farming Across Species

    Grassfed farming isn’t limited to cattle—it encompasses a variety of species, each benefiting from these principles in unique ways:

    Cattle, Bison, Sheep, and Lamb Goat

    These animals are raised on pasture-based diets of natural forages which fulfill their nutritional needs while supporting healthy growth.

    Hogs

    While their diet may be supplemented, hogs raised in pasture-based systems thrive with access to natural forage and open spaces.

    Poultry

    Chickens and turkeys are given access to outdoor areas where they can forage for insects, seeds, and plants, creating a more balanced and natural diet.

    Strengthening Local Economies and Ecosystems

    Grassfed farming has a far-reaching impact beyond the farm. By adopting regenerative grazing practices, farmers can improve biodiversity, enhance soil health, and even sequester carbon to combat climate change. Local economies also benefit as grassfed farms often rely on community-based distribution channels, creating jobs and supporting rural development.

    According to research from the Rodale Institute, and White Oak Pastures, Life Cycle analysis: regenerative farming methods can significantly boost ecological health. Consumers who choose grassfed products are directly supporting these efforts, encouraging more sustainable agricultural practices.

    The Importance of AGA Certification

    AGA certifications provide assurance that products meet strict grassfed farming standards. They emphasize transparency, helping consumers make informed choices about the food they buy. By recognizing these certifications, consumers can trust that they are supporting farms committed to pasture-based systems and environmentally conscious practices.

    Choose Grassfed for a Sustainable Future

    Grassfed farming represents a shift towards natural, ethical, and sustainable agricultural practices. By supporting AGA-certified farms, consumers contribute to a system that benefits animals, enhances ecosystems, and revitalizes rural communities.

    Discover more about AGA-certified producers and their impact at the American Grassfed Association.

  • Why Grassfed Matters: The Environmental Benefits Of Pasture-Based Farming

    Grassfed and pasture-based farming isn’t just a trend in sustainable agriculture; it’s an essential approach that positively impacts our environment. The American Grassfed Association (AGA) supports farmers who are committed to grassfed and pasture-based practices, which foster biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gasses, and promote healthier ecosystems. This article explores why grassfed matters and how pasture-based farming, including practices for beef, dairy hogs, poultry, and other AGA-certified species, is paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient food system.

    1. Soil Health And Regeneration

    One of the primary environmental benefits of grassfed, pasture-based farming is its effect on soil health. Conventional farming often relies on confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) and grain-based diets, grassfed practices allow animals to graze freely on pastures, which enriches the soil.

    How it Works

    When animals graze on pasture, their hooves naturally aerate the soil, allowing water and nutrients to penetrate deeper. The natural grazing process promotes the growth of diverse plant species, which, in turn, improves soil fertility and structure. Additionally, organic matter accumulates in the soil, supporting carbon sequestration—a critical process in mitigating climate change by capturing carbon dioxide and storing it in the ground.

    This cycle of grazing and regrowth not only improves soil resilience but also reduces erosion and water runoff, especially when animals are rotationally grazed across different areas of the pasture.

    Cited Studies

    A study on White Oak Pastures found that regenerative grazing results in -3.5 kg CO2-eq emissions per kilogram of fresh meat compared to U.S. conventional farming practices. This highlights a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with regenerative grazing.

    2. Biodiversity And Wildlife Habitat

    Grassfed, pasture-based farming systems help create and sustain biodiversity. By fostering a pasture environment where animals graze freely, farmers can protect and promote a variety of plants, insects, and other species. This rich biodiversity is especially evident when compared to monoculture crops used in conventional feed systems, which often deplete natural habitats and biodiversity.

    For example, birds, bees, and other pollinators benefit immensely from the flowering plants in pasture environments. This biodiversity also supports predator-prey relationships and soil microbes, all of which contribute to a more resilient ecosystem.

    Species Inclusion

    AGA certification covers multiple species, including hogs and poultry, which benefit from pasture-based living even with necessary supplemental feeding. This diverse system makes pasture-based farming inclusive of all animals, contributing to a well-rounded ecosystem that’s rich in different species and nutrients.

    Environmental Impact of Grassfed Beef and Other Species

    Grassfed beef farming can not only reduce methane emissions by promoting carbon sequestration but also eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and antibiotics. Hogs and poultry, although allowed supplemental feeding, benefit from the open pasture environment. 

    Research shows that pasture-based systems for beef and other animals reduce greenhouse gas emissions, proving the impact of sustainable grazing.

    3. Water Conservation And Quality

    Water usage and conservation are critical issues in agriculture, and grassfed farming supports these efforts in significant ways. Pasture-based systems generally require less water than conventional feedlots. Instead of growing water-intensive grains to feed animals, pasture-based farms rely on natural grasslands that are more suited to local water cycles and rainfall.

    Water Quality Benefits

    The natural process of grazing prevents large-scale runoff that can pollute water bodies with contaminants. Animal waste in pasture-based systems is distributed evenly across the land, allowing it to decompose naturally and enrich the soil.

    4. Supporting Rural Economies And Sustainable Farming

    Pasture-based farming supports family farms and rural economies by enabling small-scale farmers to raise animals in a sustainable way. This approach also encourages farmers to use fewer external inputs, such as commercial feed and chemical fertilizers, which often come at a high financial and environmental cost. By advocating for grassfed and pasture-based certifications across various species, the American Grassfed Association helps create market demand for sustainable products, boosting rural economies and providing consumers with environmentally responsible options.

    Additional Benefits for Hogs and Poultry

    AGA’s certification includes hogs and poultry, which, although primarily pasture-based, are allowed dietary supplementation to ensure they thrive. This approach balances animal welfare with sustainability, creating a model for resilient farming that can support different types of livestock.

    Join The Grassfed Movement

    Grassfed and pasture-based farming offers substantial environmental benefits—from promoting soil health and biodiversity to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving water. By supporting pasture-based methods for all certified species, including hogs and poultry, the American Grassfed Association is championing a sustainable model of agriculture that benefits ecosystems, rural economies, and the planet.

    Get Involved with AGA

    Learn more about the American Grassfed Association’s certifications, partnerships, and advocacy efforts by visiting americangrassfed.org. Together, we can make a difference by supporting sustainable practices that matter—for our health, communities, and environment. Join us in promoting grassfed and pasture-based farming for a greener, healthier future.

  • From Farm to Table: The Journey of Grassfed Beef in the American Marketplace

    The demand for grassfed, pasture-based meat is on the rise as consumers grow increasingly interested in food transparency, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. But what does it really take to get grassfed beef and other pasture-based meats from American farms to your table? 

    The American Grassfed Association (AGA) plays a vital role in ensuring that meat labeled “grassfed” meets rigorous standards that support American family farms, uphold animal welfare, and enrich local economies.

    Understanding Grassfed And Pasture-Based Standards

    Grassfed certification isn’t just a label; it’s a commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards for livestock management, animal welfare, and environmental health. The American Grassfed Association, a nonprofit organization founded by producers, has established a nationally recognized certification program that ensures these standards are upheld.

    For AGA-certified beef, animals are raised on a pasture-based diet  – forage based diet, without cereal grains, grazing freely without confinement and without antibiotic use or added growth hormones. This distinction sets AGA-certified grassfed products apart in a crowded marketplace and ensures that consumers can trust they are purchasing meat from animals that are humanely managed.

    But beef isn’t the only species covered under AGA certification. AGA certifies various livestock, including dairy, hogs, poultry, and sheep. While hogs and poultry are primarily pasture-based, it’s important to note that they may receive supplemental feed as needed, which is carefully monitored to maintain the integrity of pasture-based practices.

    The Grassfed Journey: From Farm To Table

    Grassfed meat’s journey from farm to table encompasses several stages, all rooted in sustainable practices that align with AGA’s commitment to animal welfare and pasture-based feeding.

    1. Farming Practices

    The journey begins on American family farms and ranches where animals are raised following AGA’s pasture-based standards. These farms allow livestock to graze freely, supporting the natural behaviors of each species. AGA-certified farmers prioritize animal health and well-being by allowing animals to live in open pastures, fostering a natural and low-stress environment.

    2. Certification and Standards

    AGA’s certification process ensures that every step, from farming to finishing, adheres to pasture-based practices. Farms seeking AGA certification undergo rigorous inspections to verify their adherence to these standards. For beef and dairy, this means animals consume a diet solely composed of grasses and forage. For hogs and poultry, the certification permits supplementary feed while emphasizing a primary diet based on natural grazing.

    AGA’s certification gives consumers peace of mind, knowing that they are purchasing meat and dairy products that have been verified by an unbiased, third-party organization. The certification also supports rural communities by providing a market for American farmers and ranchers who invest in sustainable and humane farming.

    3. Consumer Access and Awareness

    At the marketplace, AGA-certified products are clearly labeled, providing transparency for consumers who wish to make informed choices. Labels with the AGA certification mark ensure that customers are purchasing meat and dairy that meets high standards for animal welfare, sustainable farming, and local support. This label is becoming increasingly recognized in American grocery stores, and online , adding visibility to pasture-based meats while fostering trust in the grassfed market.

    Why Choose AGA-Certified Grassfed and Pasture-Based Meat?

    Choosing AGA-certified products means supporting American family farms dedicated to humane and sustainable practices. It’s a choice that benefits the consumer and positively impacts rural economies by keeping farming businesses local. Purchasing AGA-certified meat helps ensure that future generations of farmers and ranchers have sustainable agriculture opportunities while promoting a healthier environment through responsible land management.

    AGA-certified pasture-based meats offer high nutritional value from beef to poultry without using antibiotics, growth hormones, or confinement feeding practices. Grassfed beef is notably rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, which makes it a health-conscious choice for consumers aiming to improve their diets.

    The Role Of AGA In Advocacy And Education

    Beyond certification, AGA actively advocates for the rights of American family farmers at the policy level. The organization works to shape public policies that support sustainable agriculture and improve economic conditions for farmers and ranchers. Through these efforts, AGA helps protect the industry from the influence of large-scale industrial farming, ensuring that the voices of ALL farmers are heard.

    Educational outreach is another pillar of AGA’s mission, as it provides resources for farmers and consumers alike. Through its programs and partnerships, AGA educates consumers on the benefits of pasture-based farming and raises awareness about the positive impact of sustainable farming on the environment and animal welfare.

    Discover The Taste And Benefits Of AGA-Certified Meat

    The journey from farm to table for AGA-certified grassfed beef and dairy  and other pasture-based meats is a testament to American family farms’ dedication to humane practices, sustainability, and community support. Choosing AGA-certified products means supporting farmers who prioritize animal welfare and environmental stewardship while helping to build resilient rural economies.

    Experience the difference that AGA-certified meat can make on your table. Visit the American Grassfed Association to learn more about our standards and impact and how you can support American farms dedicated to sustainable and pasture-based agriculture.

  • How To Choose The Right Grassfed Products: A Consumer’s Guide

    As consumers become more conscious about the quality and sourcing of their food, the demand for grassfed and pasture based products has skyrocketed. Grassfed foods, from beef to dairy, and pastured based foods such as pork and poultry are prized for their nutritional benefits, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare standards. However, navigating the marketplace for grassfed and pasture based products can take time and effort. 

    Labels, certifications, and terms can be confusing, leading many to wonder how to choose grassfed and pasture based products. This guide will help you understand what to look for and how to make informed choices that align with your values.

    Understanding Grassfed: What Does It Mean?

    Grassfed means that the animals are raised on pasture-based grass and forage. For livestock like beef cattle, bison, dairy, sheep and goat, their diet consists of grass throughout their life, with no supplemental grains. However, the term “grassfed” alone can be vague without proper certification, which ensures that the animals were genuinely pasture-based and not finished on grain in the final months of their lives.

    The American Grassfed Association (AGA) defines hogs and poultry as pasture-based, but these species are allowed supplementation to ensure their nutritional needs are met. This distinction is essential, as hogs and poultry thrive best with some supplemental feeding, though their diet is primarily rooted in natural forage from pasture.

    The Importance Of Certification

    When choosing grassfed and pasture based products, looking for credible certifications from the American Grassfed Association is essential. AGA certification ensures animals are raised on pasture without confinement, antibiotics, or hormones. AGA’s certification isn’t limited to beef; it covers other species, including dairy cattle, goats, bison, hogs, and poultry. AGA’s certification also ensures that the products you are purchasing are supporting American Family Farms and Farmers. 

    When shopping for grassfed products, it’s crucial to look for labels that reference this certification to ensure that you are getting a product that meets high standards of animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

    Key Points to Look for in Grassfed Certification

    • Pasture-Based: Ensure that the product explicitly mentions being pasture-based. This means the animals were raised in open pastures, not confined feedlots.
    • No Grain-Finishing: To avoid misleading claims, look for labels that specify 100% grassfed. Due to lax labeling requirements, this may or may not  mean the products are 100% grassfed, unless you see the AGA certification.
    • Antibiotic and Hormone-Free: AGA certification ensures that the animals were raised without antibiotics or hormones.
    • Humane Treatment: Products certified by AGA ensure good animal husbandry of the animals, allowing them to roam freely and engage in natural behaviors.

    Grassfed Products Beyond Beef

    While grassfed beef is perhaps the most well-known category, grassfed products extend far beyond beef. Consumers can find grassfed dairy, lamb, goat, bison, and pasture-based pork and poultry. Each of these products carries its unique benefits:

    Grassfed Dairy

    Grassfed milk, cheese, and butter are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and contain higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) linked to various health benefits.

    Pasture-Based Pork

    Hogs raised in a pasture-based environment have access to natural forage, producing pork products with richer flavor and improved nutritional value.

    Grassfed Lamb and Goat

    These products offer an excellent source of lean protein and are more environmentally sustainable due to their ability to graze on diverse pasturelands.

    Grassfed Bison

    Bison raised on pasture provides a leaner, nutrient-dense alternative to conventional beef,bison supplemented wth grain, with a lower environmental impact.

    When shopping for these products, ensure the labels reflect the pasture-based, animal welfare-centric practices established by AGA certification.

    Why Pasture-Based Matters

    Choosing pasture-based products has broader implications than just personal health. Pasture-based farming practices promote soil health, reduce erosion, and encourage biodiversity. The animals graze in ways that mimic natural ecosystems, which can help minimize farming’s overall carbon footprint. Supporting pasture-based systems contributes to the health of rural economies and small family farms, which is essential to sustainable agriculture.

    It’s also important to note that pasture-based animals, especially beef, lamb, and dairy cows, help improve the overall quality of the land they graze on by naturally fertilizing the soil and promoting the growth of diverse plant species. Hogs and poultry in pasture-based systems also play a role in soil aeration and pest control, further enhancing the land’s health.

    How To Make The Best Choice As A Consumer

    To ensure you’re choosing high-quality grassfed products, keep the following tips in mind:

    1. Look for Certification

    Always check for AGA certifications , which provide transparency about the farming practices behind the product.

    2. Check the Species

    Ensure you’re considering the full range of grassfed and pasture-based products available—not just beef but also dairy, lamb, goat, bison, hogs, and poultry.

    3. Know the Terminology

    Be wary of misleading labels. Terms like “natural” or “organic” don’t necessarily mean the animal was grassfed or pasture-based.

    4. Ask Questions

    Transparency is key, and reputable producers will be more than happy to share their methods. 

    5. Support Local

    Support local farms and producers that adhere to these pasture-based practices whenever possible. Buying directly from local farmers often ensures higher transparency and promotes sustainable agriculture.

    Making A Positive Impact With Your Choices

    Choosing the right grassfed products is more than personal health—supporting sustainable farming, animal welfare, and rural economies. By opting for certified grassfed and pasture-based products, you positively impact the environment and help promote ethical farming practices. Whether buying beef, dairy, pork, or poultry, look for AGA certification to ensure you make a genuinely informed and responsible choice.

    To learn more about AGA certifications and how to support American family farms and ranchers, visit the American Grassfed Association today.

  • Understanding The Economic Impact Of Grass Farming On Rural Communities

    Farming has grown popular due to its health benefits, environmental advantages, and ethical practices. However, its economic impact is equally profound, particularly on rural communities. For small farms across the United States, grassfed and pasture-based farming has created opportunities for financial growth, community resilience, and sustainable development. 

    This article explores the economic benefits of grass farming in rural areas and how it supports farmers and the local economy.

    The Foundation Of Grass Farming

    Grass Farming, as defined by the American Grassfed Association (AGA), refers to raising livestock, such as cattle, sheep, goats, dairy on a 100% forage based diet.  Hogs, and poultry, primarily on pasture-based diets. This method ensures that animals graze in natural environments, which is beneficial for animal welfare and product quality.

    One critical aspect of grass farming is that it is pasture-based, a term that highlights the natural and ethical approach to raising animals. For species like hogs and poultry, pasture-based farming allows for supplementation when necessary, ensuring their nutritional needs are met while still adhering to pasture-centric principles.

    Boosting Rural Economies Through Localized Production

    Grass farming’s reliance on smaller, family-run farms is at the heart of its economic impact on rural communities. These farms, often located in remote areas, contribute significantly to the local economy. By promoting the grassfed standard, the AGA supports these farmers through certification, advocacy, and education.

    One of the primary economic benefits of grass farming is that it keeps money circulating within local economies. Since grass and pasture based ( many that are multi-species) farms tend to be smaller, they are often family-owned and run, so profits stay within the community. Unlike industrial farming, where large corporations usually absorb profits, small-scale grassfed farms reinvest earnings into local infrastructure, employment, and services.

    In addition, grass and pasture based farming encourages the growth of ancillary businesses such as local butchers, farm supply stores, and markets that provide equipment and services to farmers. These businesses, in turn, create more jobs, further strengthening rural economies.

    Enhancing Job Creation And Sustainability

    The labor-intensive nature of grass and pasture based farming creates more local  jobs compared to industrial farming. The pasture-based approach requires attentive animal management, rotational grazing practices, and personalized care, all of which demand a skilled workforce. As a result, grassfed and pasture based  farms tend to employ more workers.

    Moreover, grass and pastured based  farming practices are long-term sustainable, helping to ensure the economic viability of rural communities. The reliance on reduced transportation needs, and minimal reliance on external inputs like chemical fertilizers make grass and pasture based farming environmentally sustainable. This reduces overhead costs for farmers, increases profit margins, and allows for the long-term economic health of the community.

    Strengthening Community Resilience

    Grass and pasture based farming fosters resilience in rural areas by promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on external resources. Localized food production diminishes the need for extended supply chains, which can be vulnerable to disruptions. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when many industrial food supply chains were interrupted while smaller, local grassfed, pasture based and in many cases, multispecies operations remained stable.

    In addition, the sustainable nature of grass and pastured based  farming ensures that rural communities can continue farming for generations. With proper land management practices such as rotational grazing, farmers can preserve soil health and biodiversity, ensuring that their land remains productive over time. This long-term approach helps rural communities thrive and reduces the risk of economic collapse.

    Increased Market Demand And Consumer Preferences

    The demand for grassfed and pasture-based products has increased as consumers become more conscious of their food choices regarding environmental, health, and ethical aspects. This shift in consumer preferences has opened new markets for rural farmers, allowing them to sell their grassfed and pastured  products locally and nationally at premium prices.

    Farmers who are certified by AGA can also benefit from the credibility that comes with certification. This provides access to markets where consumers prioritize food transparency and sustainability, such as farmers’ markets, specialty stores, and online platforms.

    Supporting The Environment And Local Wildlife

    While the focus of grass and pasture based farming is often on the economic and health benefits, its environmental impact plays a crucial role in supporting rural communities. Pasture-based farming improves soil health, promotes biodiversity, and reduces the carbon footprint of animal agriculture.

    Healthy soils can sequester carbon. This environmental sustainability translates into economic benefits for farmers, as improved soil health leads to more nutritious forages and reduces the need for expensive inputs like synthetic fertilizers.Another benefit of healthy soils is that these well managed lands can have better water holding capacity.

    A Path Forward For Rural Communities

    Grass farming, particularly pasture-based systems, is more than just a method of raising livestock; it is an economic engine for rural communities. By supporting local economies, creating jobs, promoting sustainable practices, and responding to consumer demand, grass and pasture based farming can help rural communities thrive.

    As the American Grassfed Association continues to be a leading  advocate for grassfed and pasture-based farming, the benefits will extend beyond the farm to the community and beyond. AGA also advocates for only American family farms and farmers. 

    To learn more about how grass and pasture based farming is transforming rural communities and supporting local economies, visit the American Grassfed Association and explore pasture-based farming practices paving the way for a sustainable future.

     

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