Decoding Food Labels: Understanding the Meaning Behind Organic and Free Range

Understanding food labels can be confusing, as different terms have varying definitions and levels of regulation. The USDA provides guidelines for organic certification, which includes avoiding synthetic substances and using permitted farming practices. Animal welfare labels like "cage-free" or "free-range" are not strictly regulated, but companies can seek USDA certification for these claims. However, there is no standard definition for terms like "humane" or "sustainable." Nonprofit organizations offer third-party certification programs with specific standards. "Sell-by" dates are estimates of when food will taste best, not when it becomes unsafe to eat. Consumers can refer to the FSIS guide for general guidelines on food shelf life.