100+ animal welfare standards — Global Animal Partnership certified
All fresh beef in our Meat department is Animal Welfare Certified by the nonprofit Global Animal Partnership using a tiered 5+ Step system with detailed requirements for how animals are handled, housed, fed and more. Different animals have different, specific welfare needs – for cattle, that starts with no crowding. Each step builds on the previous, addressing things like feedlots and time spent on pasture.
Each Step builds on the prior's requirements — read up on some of the details
At Whole Foods Market, our Meat department standards and strong relationships with farmers and ranchers mean we know where and how animals were raised. Plus, all beef, pork, chicken, lamb and turkey (except kosher turkey) in our Meat department is Animal Welfare Certified, so you can feel good about what you’re buying (and eating).
What Makes Our Meat Department Different
Farm-to-store traceability
We use a traceable audit system that tracks animals on every step of the journey — from their birth on the farm or ranch to our stores.
No antibiotics, ever
If an animal must receive antibiotic treatment, the meat cannot be sold in our Meat department.
No added growth hormones
We don’t allow the use of added hormones in our Meat department, whether that’s through feed, injections or any other method.
No animal by-products in feed
That includes no feather meal or rendered fat.
Product Quick Look
Beef Ribeye Steak Boneless Step 1
Meets standards for animal welfare, feed, and more, so you can know about what you're buying (and eating)
No added growth hormones or antibiotics, ever
Traceable to farm or ranch.
Animal Welfare Certified by Global Animal Partnership