2024

AGA NEWS & PRESS

  • 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.

     

  • The Future Of Grassfed Farming: Innovations And Trends Shaping The Industry

    Grassfed farming has long been valued for its positive environmental impact and healthier products, particularly grassfed beef. As consumer demand for sustainably produced food continues, the grassfed farming industry evolves with innovations and trends shaping its future. For organizations like the American Grassfed Association (AGA), which supports American family farms and ranches through certification, advocacy, and education, keeping up with these changes is essential to staying relevant in a rapidly transforming marketplace.

    In this article, we’ll explore critical innovations and trends driving the future of grassfed farming, shedding light on how they create a more sustainable and economically viable industry.

    Technological Advancements In Grassfed Farming

    One of the most significant drivers of change in grassfed farming is technology. As traditional farming methods intersect with modern innovation, farms increasingly turn to tech solutions to improve efficiency, animal welfare, and sustainability. From soil monitoring systems to drones, technology is enhancing the precision of farming operations.

    1. Precision Agriculture

    Tools, such as GPS-guided equipment, are now widely used in grassfed farming to ensure animals have access to healthy pastures. These tools help monitor soil quality, moisture levels, and grass growth, allowing farmers to rotate grazing areas effectively. By optimizing pasture management, precision agriculture helps increase productivity without depleting the land, supporting the grassfed ethos of sustainable farming.

    Sustainability And Environmental Trends

    Sustainability remains a cornerstone of pasture based  farming. As climate change concerns escalate, grassfed farms adopt regenerative practices that minimize environmental impact and improve ecosystems’ resilience.

    1. Regenerative Grazing Practices

    Regenerative grazing focuses on enhancing soil health through rotational grazing and strategic pasture management. This approach allows pastures to recover and regenerate, which in turn improves biodiversity and sequesters carbon in the soil. As part of this trend, farmers are moving toward holistic grazing systems that support environmental sustainability and economic viability.

    2. Carbon Sequestration

    Grassfed farms are increasingly seen as part of the solution to climate change due to their potential for carbon sequestration. By allowing grasslands to regenerate, carbon is stored in the soil, helping mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This has led to collaborations between grassfed farmers and environmental organizations to measure and increase the carbon sequestration capacity of pasture-based farms. Such initiatives contribute to the growing movement toward climate-friendly agriculture.

    Consumer Trends Shaping The Future

    Consumer awareness is influencing the future of grassfed farming. More than ever, people are seeking out food that is not only nutritious but also produced in an ethical and environmentally responsible way.

    1. Demand for Transparency

    As consumers become more conscious of food origins, transparency in farming practices is paramount. AGA’s certification guarantees that animals are raised on pasture and adhere to strict grassfed standards, which is a vital tool for producers looking to build trust with consumers. Grassfed/ pasture based farming operations that can offer transparency, backed by certifications, are poised to succeed in the evolving marketplace.

    2. Rise of Grassfed Beef and Specialty Products

    Grassfed beef has experienced a surge in popularity, with many consumers prioritizing it over conventionally raised meat due to its health benefits, including higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids. Other grassfed products, such as dairy and lamb are gaining traction as consumers look for alternatives to mass-produced animal products. Farmers who diversify their offerings to include a range of grassfed goods can tap into these growing markets.

    Challenges And Opportunities

    While the future of grassfed farming looks promising, the industry faces challenges, particularly in scaling operations while maintaining sustainability. The need for land, and navigating evolving government regulations are hurdles many producers must overcome.

    However, with challenges come opportunities. Organizations like the American Grassfed Association are critical in advocating for supportive policies, promoting small family farms, and fostering education on sustainable farming practices. The grassfed industry can continue to thrive and expand by addressing these issues, benefiting farmers and consumers.

    Embracing The Future Of Grassfed Farming

    The future of grassfed farming lies in the balance between innovation and tradition. Technological advancements, regenerative practices, and shifting consumer preferences are all shaping the next era for grassfed agriculture. At the heart of this evolution is a commitment to sustainability, animal welfare, and transparency—values the American Grassfed Association championed.

    As the industry continues to evolve, organizations like AGA will be crucial in guiding farmers through these changes, ensuring that grassfed farming remains a sustainable and economically viable choice for future generations.

    Join the Movement for Sustainable Farming

    Grassfed farming represents the future of sustainable agriculture. Whether you’re a farmer, rancher, or conscious consumer, you can be part of this movement. Learn more about grassfed farming and how to support American family farms by visiting American Grassfed Association. Stay informed, stay connected, and help shape the future of grassfed farming.

  • From Pasture To Plate: The Journey Of American Grassfed Products Into The Marketplace

    The rise of grassfed and pasture-based products in the marketplace is more than just a trend; it represents a shift in consumer demand toward sustainable, ethically sourced, and health-conscious food. The American Grassfed Association (AGA) is at the heart of this movement, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting American family farms and ranchers.

    Through certification, advocacy, education, and partnerships, AGA plays a pivotal role in connecting the products from pasture to plate, ensuring that grassfed and pasture-based standards are upheld and valued by consumers across the nation.

    Understanding Grassfed Standards: A Commitment To Quality

    Grassfed and pasture-based beef, dairy, and other products come with a promise—these animals are humanely raised on pasture. AGA sets a transparent, credible national standard that assures consumers of the authenticity and integrity of their purchases. 

    AGA certification requires that animals be fed a diet exclusively derived from forage (grasses and other plant material), with no grain or grain by-products. This promotes natural grazing behaviors that lead to healthier animals and higher-quality products.

    This commitment extends beyond the animals. It supports rural economies, preserves farmland, and ensures that grassfed and pasture-based operations maintain sustainable practices. The journey of a grassfed product begins on a pasture, where animals graze freely, contributing to soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. This process is rooted in environmental stewardship—a fundamental principle of AGA and its members.

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    The Role of Family Farms and Ranches

    American family farms and ranches form the backbone of the grassfed and pasture-based movement. These small-scale, independent operations uphold traditional farming practices, relying on the health of their land and livestock to produce quality grassfed and pasture-based products. AGA champions these farms by providing certification that ensures consumer trust and opens doors to broader marketplaces.

    Through advocacy and education, AGA protects these farmers’ interests at the policy level. Whether by addressing labeling standards or pushing for legislation that supports sustainable farming, the organization strives to create an environment where grassfed and pasture-based farms can thrive economically. The integrity of their products rests not only on their farming practices but on the recognition and protection of these practices by broader industry and government policies.

    The Marketplace: Meeting Consumer Demand For Grassfed Products

    As the demand for healthier and more ethically sourced food grows, grassfed and pasture-based products increasingly become mainstream markets. AGA’s certification assures consumers that the grassfed, pasture-based beef, dairy, lamb, and other products they purchase meet our grassfed or pasture-based, humane farming standards. This aligns with growing consumer interest in knowing where their food comes from and how it was produced.

    In supermarkets and specialty stores, products bearing the AGA seal stand out as symbols of transparency and sustainability. Restaurants are also tapping into the grassfed and pasture-based movement, offering menus that feature grassfed and pasture-based beef and other products to appeal to health-conscious diners. The popularity of grassfed and pasture-based products extends beyond food enthusiasts, reaching those concerned with the environmental and ethical aspects of food production.

    Challenges And Opportunities For Grassfed Producers

    Despite its growth, the grassfed industry faces challenges, including market competition, pricing, and consumer education. Grassfed products tend to carry a higher price point due to the labor-intensive, sustainable farming methods required. AGA works to educate consumers on why this price reflects the quality, sustainability, and ethical treatment of animals that come with grassfed and pasture-based production.

    Opportunities abound as well, particularly in expanding consumer awareness. Events, conferences, and partnerships between AGA and other organizations aim to promote the grassfed industry and its benefits. Farmers who join AGA ggain access to a network of support, including advocacy on their behalf and the opportunity to participate in programs that help their businesses thrive in a competitive marketplace.

    AGA Members: Leading The Charge

    The success of AGA and the grassfed and pasture-based movement is only possible with the dedication of its members. These producers uphold the highest animal welfare standards, land management, and sustainable farming. By sharing their stories, AGA highlights these farmers and ranchers’ hard work, innovation, and commitment. These member farms represent the future of sustainable agriculture, where high-quality grassfed and pasture-based products are made available to consumers nationwide.

    AGA provides ongoing opportunities for its members to connect with consumers through events, educational initiatives, and partnerships. For consumers who want to make a conscious choice, supporting these farms means supporting a food production system that prioritizes ethics, environmental responsibility, and animal welfare.

    Supporting Grassfed Products From Pasture To Plate

    The journey of grassfed and pasture-based products from pasture to plate is one of transparency, sustainability, and integrity. By supporting grassfed and pasture-based products, consumers play a role in shaping the future of food production, helping to build a marketplace where ethical, environmentally responsible practices thrive. Whether you are a farmer looking to become certified or a consumer wanting to make a difference, AGA is here to guide you in making informed, impactful choices.

    For more information on supporting grassfed and pasture-based farms and ranches or learning more about certification, visit the American Grassfed Association.

  • Scrutiny of Meat Labels Like Grass-Fed Misses Green Expectations: A Closer Look at USDA’s New Guidelines

    Federal regulators have issued new guidance aimed at clarifying how terms like “grass-fed” and “free-range” are used in the meat and poultry industry, but sustainability activists argue that it doesn’t fully address the growing concerns about greenwashing.

    The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) updated its guidance last week, focusing on voluntary marketing claims about how livestock are raised and the sustainability of land use. The guidance encourages companies to provide more robust documentation to support their animal-raising or environmental claims and to use third-party certifications to substantiate these claims.

    This update follows increasing scrutiny over greenwashing practices, particularly in the meat industry. Earlier this year, New York’s attorney general filed a lawsuit against JBS, the world’s largest beef processor, accusing the company of greenwashing by making unsubstantiated environmental claims.

    Ben Lilliston, director of rural strategies and climate change at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, praised the USDA for requiring more information but emphasized that more needs to be done to ensure labels are not misleading. He stated that documentation alone isn’t enough to fully address concerns about transparency in meat labeling.

    Businesses and activists are also looking to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which is expected to update its Green Guides, a set of marketing guidelines designed to ensure that environmental claims made by companies are truthful. The guides haven’t been updated in over a decade, which has caused confusion for businesses trying to navigate environmental marketing.

    The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service reviews documentation submitted by companies to support their animal-raising and environment-related marketing claims. Labels can only be used if approved by the agency. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized that this new guidance will help level the playing field for companies that are truthful in their claims and will allow consumers to trust labels when purchasing meat products.

    However, critics argue that third-party certification should be mandatory to ensure consistency. The American Grassfed Association (AGA), a leader in setting high standards for grass-fed meat, has long pushed for stricter enforcement to protect consumers and farmers alike. Carrie Balkcom, AGA’s executive director, stressed that voluntary guidelines aren’t enough, calling for mandatory third-party certification to ensure transparency and trust in labels.

    Meanwhile, organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) continue to express skepticism, arguing that no type of certification can make meat, eggs, or dairy truly sustainable. They have also raised concerns about third-party certifiers like the Global Animal Partnership, which has faced criticism in the past.

    As the USDA continues its efforts to address transparency in labeling, federal agencies and companies alike are working to find a balance between providing clear, trustworthy information and navigating the complexities of environmental marketing.

    This blog post is based on an article originally reported by Clara Hudson for Bloomberg. To review, read the full article here.

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