
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

Minimum space requirements

Some enrichments required (e.g. straw bales)

6 hours of darkness required daily for proper rest

Chickens must have bright barns (min 50 lux)

6-hr maximum transport time


No outdoor access required

Minimum space requirements

Additional enrichments required (at least 2 types)

6 hours of darkness required daily for proper rest

Natural light required in barns (e.g. windows)

6-hr maximum transport time


Seasonal outdoor access required by 4 weeks of age

Minimum space requirements

Additional enrichments required (at least 2 types)

Outdoor shade & enrichments required

Natural light required

6-hr maximum transport time


Daily access to pasture from 4 weeks of age

Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover

Specialty breeds for outdoor production

Outdoor shade & enrichments required

—

6-hr maximum transport time


Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 4 weeks of age

Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover

Specialty breeds for outdoor production

Outdoor shade & enrichments required

—

6-hr maximum transport time


Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 4 weeks of age

Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% cover

Specialty breeds for outdoor production

Outdoor shade & enrichments required

—

No transport time; entire life on farm
All levels of certification: No antibiotics ever | 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.