Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
also includes any written, printed, or graphic material that is used on the containers or wrap-
pings of poultry products, or that accompanies poultry products at the point of sale (i.e., “point
of purchase” materials).
2
It is permitted to label poultry with a factual statement that the product has been “certified or-
ganic by [name of certifying agency].” The term “organic” cannot be used by itself as a claim
on the label except as part of the signature line on labels if the “organic” is part of the farm's
incorporated name (e.g., Mike's Organic Poultry), and it is deemed not to be misleading. Any
labeling statement that uses the term “organic” must be in accordance with the final rule and be
submitted for prior approval to the Labeling and Additives Policy Division of the FSIS.
The FSIS has definitions for most labeling claims made by poultry producers on eggs and
meat products. It is helpful to the consumer and to other producers if these terms are used hon-
estly and consistently.
Rock Cornish Game Hen
—small broiler 1-2 lbs.
Fryer
—young birds less than 4 lbs.
Broiler
—young birds 4-5 lbs.
Roaster
—young birds 5-10 lbs.
Capon
—male bird castrated at three weeks, 7-11 lbs.
Stewing Hen
—older retired laying hen
Chemical Free
—not allowed
No Antibiotics
—may be used if producer can produce documentation proving this.
No Hormones
—cannot be used unless it is followed by “Federal regulations prohibit the
use of hormones.”
Natural
—a product containing no artificial ingredients or added color. The label must ex-
plain the use of the term.
Free-Range or Free-Roaming
—producer must demonstrate to the agency (FSIS) that the
poultry has been allowed access to the outside.
