The "Certified Humane" label, a prominent certification for farm animal welfare, is certified by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC), an independent non-profit organization. HFAC's mission is to improve the lives of farm animals by providing a credible and transparent certification program.
Understanding the Certification Process
To earn the "Certified Humane" designation, farms and ranches must adhere to rigorous, science-based standards for the treatment of farm animals from birth through slaughter. These standards cover a wide array of aspects, including:
- Diet: Animals must have access to a nutritious diet, free from antibiotics and hormones.
- Housing: Adequate space, shelter, and enrichments suitable for their species are required.
- Health: Comprehensive animal health plans are mandatory, focusing on preventative care.
- Handling: Humane handling practices are enforced during all stages of life, including transport and slaughter.
HFAC employs a robust auditing process to ensure compliance. This involves:
- Annual Inspections: Trained third-party inspectors conduct annual, on-site audits of all certified farms.
- Species-Specific Standards: The guidelines are unique and tailored for each farm animal species, recognizing their distinct needs.
Distinguishing "Certified Humane" from Other Certifications
It's important to note that while "Certified Humane" is a widely recognized standard, other reputable animal welfare certifications exist. For instance, American Humane Certified is another significant program in the United States.
The American Humane Association oversees the "American Humane Certified" program. This organization utilizes independent firms to conduct annual audits on participating farms. These audits are critical for ensuring that farms comply with the American Humane Certified guidelines, and they can even be unannounced to maintain impartiality and accuracy in their assessment.
| Certification Program | Certifying Body | Focus | Audit Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Humane | Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) | Farm animal welfare from birth to slaughter | Annual, third-party, on-site inspections based on species-specific standards. |
| American Humane Certified | American Humane Association (AHA) | Humane treatment of farm animals | Annual audits by independent firms; can be unannounced. |
Both programs aim to assure consumers that products carrying their labels come from animals raised under specific humane standards. However, they are distinct entities with their own sets of standards and auditing methodologies. Consumers often look for these labels to make informed choices that align with their values regarding animal welfare.
