New U.S. Department of Agriculture guidance for its Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards aims to establish clear, strong and consistent standards for organic livestock and poultry production; level the playing field for organic livestock farmers, ranchers and businesses; and promote fairer, more competitive markets for organic products, while providing consumers with more transparency about their purchases.
"USDA is creating a fairer, more competitive and transparent food system," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. "This organic poultry and livestock standard establishes clear and strong standards that will increase the consistency of animal welfare practices in organic production and in how these practices are enforced. Competitive markets help deliver greater value to all producers, regardless of size."