Is Pasture Raised Chicken Really Better?
(5 minute read)
Is pasture-raised chicken really better than organic, free-range and cage-free chicken? The following provides an overview of the health, environmental impact and ethical agriculture involved with pasture-raised chicken.
Health Benefits of Pasture-Raised Chicken
Pasture-raised chicken offers several potential health benefits compared to conventionally raised chicken, stemming from the differences in their living conditions and diet.
​
Pasture-raised chickens eat a natural diet when compared to conventional feed. The diverse diet of pasture-raised chickens results in meat that is richer in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
Pasture-raised chicken also has reduced exposure to antibiotics. Conventional chicken farms may use antibiotics to prevent disease in crowded conditions. Overuse of these antibiotics can contribute to development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Pasture-raising practices help maintain healthy grasslands and prevent soil erosion. This is in contrast to large-scale deforestation often associated with growing crops for conventional chicken feed.
​
Pasture-raised chickens act like natural tillers and fertilizers. As they forage, they aerate the soil, promote drainage and fertilize it with their manure. This can help improve soil health and fertility over time.
​
The presence of chickens grazing on pastures can encourage a wider variety of plant and insect life. This contributes to a more balanced and biodiverse ecosystem compared to conventionally raised chickens, typically housed in barren environments.
​
Sustainable farming practices used for pasture-raised chickens also have a lower carbon footprint, reducing carbon emissions because of less reliance on feed production and transportation.
Environmental Impact of Pasture-Raised Chicken
Ethical Considerations of Pasture-Raised Chicken
Pasture-raised chicken farming offers several ethical benefits compared to conventional intensive farming methods.
Animal Welfare
Pasture-raised chickens typically have better living conditions and higher welfare standards compared to chickens raised in crowded and confined environments. They have access to outdoor space where they can exhibit natural behaviors and engage in activities such as foraging and socializing.
Reduced Stress and Aggression
Pasture-raised chickens experience lower levels of stress and aggression compared to chickens raised in overcrowded and stressful environments. Access to outdoor space and opportunities for natural behavior help reduce stress levels, leading to healthier and more contented chickens.
Improved Health
Pasture-raised chickens are less susceptible to diseases and health issues commonly associated with intensive farming practices, such as overcrowding, poor ventilation, and high levels of ammonia in confined spaces. Outdoor access and exposure to sunlight contribute to stronger immune systems and overall better health for pasture-raised chickens.
Enhanced Environmental Stewardship
Pasture-raised chicken farming is more sustainable compared to intensive farming methods. Integrating chickens into diversified farming systems promotes soil health, reduces reliance on synthetic inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, and contributes to biodiversity conservation. Pasture-raised systems also help mitigate environmental pollution by minimizing waste runoff and greenhouse gas emissions associated with industrial farming.
Support for Sustainable Agriculture
Choosing pasture-raised chicken products supports sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and community well-being. By purchasing pasture-raised chicken, consumers contribute to the growth of a more ethical and environmentally friendly food system.