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By Scott and Ann Springer
As the organic and natural pet food and treat market has grown, many “green” buzz words have surfaced. Below is a defined list of common terms to help retailers sort through it all. When buying from a manufacturer who uses these terms, though, the best thing to do is ask what the terms mean with regard to their products, because some terms are not government regulated.
Certified Organic: Products using this term contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients and can use the certified organic symbol.
Made with Organic: Products using this term were made with 70 percent organic ingredients, but can’t use the organic symbol.
All-Natural: No additives, preservatives, or chemicals were added (except for vitamins and minerals as allowed by Association of American Feed Control Officials) to these products.
Free-range: This is a farming method that allows animals access to the outdoors instead of being restricted solely to an indoor confinement.
Antibiotic-free: This claim states that animals were never given sub-therapeutic levels of antibiotics as a growth stimulant.
Holistic: Products made are consistent with wellness philosophies in providing health through adequate nutrition.
*The manufacturer Stella and Chewy's helped us compile these definitions.
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