Access a detailed version of our comprehensive standards in the documents below or reference this quick, at-a-glance overview of the key standards being met at each certification level to understand which level could be achievable for your farm or ranch.
No outdoor access required
Water & feed always available
Minimum space requirements
Beak trimming and toenail conditioning permitted (at the hatchery only)
8-hr maximum transport time
No outdoor access required
Water & feed always available
More space requirements, enrichments required (1 type)
Beak trimming permitted (hatchery only); toenail conditioning prohibited
8-hr maximum transport time
Seasonal outdoor access required by 7 weeks of age
Outdoor area maintained with a minimum 25% vegetative cover
Outdoor shade & additional enrichments required (2 types)
Beak trimming permitted (hatchery only); toenail conditioning prohibited
8-hr maximum transport time
Daily access to pasture by 7 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover
Outdoor shade & additional enrichments required (2 types)
No physical alterations permitted
4-hr maximum transport time
Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 7 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover
Housing must be mobile
No physical alterations permitted
4-hr maximum transport time
Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 7 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover
Housing must be mobile
No physical alterations permitted
No transport time; entire life on farm
All levels of certification: Maximum average growth rate requirement | No added growth hormones* | No animal by-products | Every farm 3rd party audited every 15 months
*Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in raising poultry.
Standards in green indicate a new or changed requirement from the previous certification level.
