The Humane Farm Animal Care Certification program protects animal welfare from birth through slaughter. To receive the Certified Humane Raised and Handled label, animals must have been handled gently and given ample space, shelter, and a nutritious diet free of hormones and non-therapeutic antibiotics. Cages, crates and tie stalls are prohibited.

Poultry and Eggs

Unlike the misleading Free Range label on some poultry and eggs, Certified Humane Raised and Handled chickens and laying hens are required access to the outdoors, as defined by a set of strict requirements. Outdoor space allotted for chickens must be maintained so it does not become damaged, sodden or contaminated, buildings that house chickens must have enough exits to ensure all chickens are allowed to access the outdoors, and chickens must be given at least four hours daily access to a dust-bathing area. There are additional requirements that ensure poultry with this certification is truly "free range."