What is an organic hen?

"Organic hen" is a term that refers to a hen that is raised according to organic farming standards. This means that the hens:

* Are fed organic feed: This includes feed that is free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They also receive a diet of organic grains and other ingredients.

* Have access to the outdoors: Organic hens must have access to pasture or outdoor areas where they can forage for food and engage in natural behaviors.

* Are raised without antibiotics or hormones: They are not given antibiotics unless they are sick and only given hormones for medicinal purposes.

* Live in humane conditions: They are kept in spacious environments with adequate space and access to natural light.

Here's what "organic hen" doesn't mean:

* They are not necessarily "free-range" or "pasture-raised." While organic hens are required to have outdoor access, the regulations don't specify how much or what kind of access they have.

* They are not necessarily "cage-free." The organic label does not specify housing, so organic hens can be kept in barns or other structures.

Overall, choosing organic eggs or poultry means you're supporting hens raised in a more natural and humane way. The USDA Organic seal verifies that the chickens meet these standards.

However, it's important to note that "organic" doesn't guarantee other aspects of animal welfare, such as the number of hens in a cage or the time they spend outdoors.