There is no specific standard, or criteria that must be met to designate a product as natural. According to the USDA, natural simply means "minimally processed" Applegate Farms takes this definition to a higher level by producing products without nitrites, antibiotics, or chemical preservatives, and by employing humane animal husbandry practices.

On October 21st 2002, the USDA's regulations for organic became federal law after more than 12 years in the drafting process. This means that products labeled as organic must meet strict USDA standards, from farming to processing, to be labeled as such. With this program, there is no debate as to what constitutes an organic product. As a consumer, you can shop with confidence knowing that when you purchase organic foods, you are indeed getting what you pay for.

Organic products and practices benefit the environment and give us more choices as to what we put on our dinner tables. Purchasing organic products is also a way to promote sustainable agricultural practices that preserve the environment by eliminating the use of chemicals, pesticides and antibiotics. The philosophy fueling the organic movement is one that seeks to preserve and enhance the natural order by implementing and maintaining sustainable agricultural practices.

Meat: Organic meat products must come from animals raised without the use of antibiotics, growth hormones, or any synthetic substances. All animal feed must be produced organically (see vegetables section) and the animals must have access to fresh air, sunlight and shelter suitable to their climate and species. The use of synthetic processing agents, sulfites, nitrates or nitrites is prohibited.

Fruits & Vegetables: Produce must be grown without the use of synthetic herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, or any other growth aid that requires processing with chemicals. In addition, the soil must be managed in a manner that maintains or improves the physical, chemical and biological condition, as well as minimize erosion.

Depending on the percentage of organic ingredients used in a product, different labeling requirements have been established to distinguish levels of purity.

100% Organic: may be labeled as such.

Organic: a minimum of 95% of the ingredients must be organic. Products may be labeled as, for example, Organic Chicken & Apple Sausage.

Made With Organic Ingredients: a minimum of 70% of the ingredients must be organic. The label may feature up to three ingredients, such as Made with Organic, Chicken, Spinach, & Cheese.

Some Organic Ingredients: Products containing less than 70% organic ingredients can list them in the ingredient statement.