G.A.P. Label Quick Reference Guide
ENRICHED ENVIRONMENT
Animals were raised in environments that provide them with more space and additional enrichments (such as straw bales and perches) to encourage natural behaviors. Again, all G.A.P. certified animals were raised without antibiotics or any added hormones, and were fed a vegetarian diet with no animal by-products.
OUTDOOR ACCESS
Animals have the choice of indoor or outdoor living (weather permitting for poultry), and also have additional enrichments indoors and out. At this level, farms and ranches ensure the animals are managed in both environments.
PASTURE RAISED
Animals are raised on pasture year-round. In some climates where pastures need to be protected for use the next year, animals must still be given daily access to outdoor areas. Cattle, sheep, goats and bison are not permitted to be finished in feedlots. Farmers and ranchers raise animals that are well suited for outdoor living, and sustainably manage their environments.
ANIMAL CENTERED
Animals live on pasture year-round, with protection from the environment (shelters, windbreak, etc.). Farmers and ranchers raise animals that are well suited for outdoor living, and sustainably manage their environments. No physical alterations are performed on any of the animals (e.g. castration, tail docking, etc).
