Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is American Humane?
A. American Humane is the oldest national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Founded in 1877, American Humane provides national leadership in the development of programs, policies, and services the prevent cruelty, abuse, and neglect of animals and children.
Q. What is American Humane Farm Animal Welfare Certification Program?
A. The farm animal welfare certification of American Human is a voluntary, fee-based service available to producers of animals in agriculture. The program provides independent, third party audited verification that the care and handling of animals on enrolled farms meet the animal welfare standards set forth by American Humane Certified. Producers who meet the standards may use the American Humane Certified label on their products.
Q. How were the American Humane animal welfare standards determined?
A. The standards were created with input from animal science experts, familiar with all farm animal species. In creating unique animal welfare standards for each species, consideration was given to established standards, including the Four Freedoms, as used by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the 1999 Federation of Animal Science Societies Guide, and other practical standards and animal husbandry guidelines recognized by animal scientists and producers for the proper care of animals. American Humane continues to review the standards regularly with its Scientific Advisory Committee and Fellows to ensure that the standards reflect new information and technology.
Q. What happens if the producer fails to meet the standards?
A. If the producer is not in compliance with American Humane standards, written notice is provided to the producer by the auditor. The producer has 7 days to send a corrective action plan. When the corrective action plan is completed, the producer is then certified. The program is not about failing. It is based on educating the producers on how to improve animal welfare through more effective operating procedures.
Q. What do American Humane’s animal welfare standards require?
A. There are up to 200 check points that an auditor measures for each species. The most basic criteria require that animals have clean and sufficient food and water; a humane environment under conditions and care that limit stress; are able to express normal behaviors and live in an appropriate and comfortable environment that includes sufficient space, proper facilities, shelter, a resting area, and company of their own kind; and have a healthy life, benefiting from disease and injury prevention and rapid diagnoses and treatment. In addition, the standards require that managers and staff be thoroughly trained, skilled, and competent in animal husbandry and welfare, and have good working knowledge of their system and the animals in their care.
Q. How can I be certain that the eggs I buy with the American Humane Certified label are from cage-free egg-producing operations?
A. American Humane Association requires that eggs be produced in cage-free operations, or those using alternate housing systems approved by American Humane Association and that carry the Seal of Approval. We regularly audit the certified producers of American Humane Association to ensure that they meet our comprehensive animal welfare standards.
Q. What is the difference between other food products and those certified by American Humane?
A. The difference is that American Humane Association production standards are developed with the well-being of the animal in mind. American Humane Association standards ensure that animals used for food are raised and handled humanely, in compliance with our standards.
Q. Are foods with the American Humane Certified logo safer than similar foods?
A. When the American Humane Certified logo appears on a product label, it certifies that the animal was humanely treated. Animal welfare practices can be a factor in the quality and safety of food.
Q. Is there really a demand for more humanely produced foods?
A. Yes, and the demand is growing. A 2007 survey for American Humane, conducted by the independent Public Opinion Strategies organization, found that 58% of consumers said they would spend an additional 10% or more for products (meat, poultry, eggs, or dairy) labeled as "humanely raised." This same group of consumers ranked the humane label as most important over organic or natural.
Q. How will I know which products in the supermarket come from producers certified by American Humane?
A. Producers that are audited and that comply with the stringent welfare standards of American Humane may use the American Humane Certified label on their packaging. Look for the label with the bright yellow circle surrounding the red barn and blue sky. It’s your assurance that the producers have met American Humane animal welfare standards for those products.
Q. How can I get my grocer to carry foods that are covered under the American Humane certification program?
A. Tell your grocer that you want products that carry the American Humane Certified label. For a list of producers that have been certified by American Humane, click here.
Q. How does a producer become certified?
A. To find out what is involved in becoming a producer, click here. For more information, or to start the process, contact American Humane here.
If you have other questions, or would like more information, contact us.
