What Does Certified Humane® Really Mean at Niman Ranch?
February 17, 2026
At Niman Ranch, how animals are raised isn’t a marketing claim – it’s the foundation of everything we do. We believe exceptional meat starts with responsible farming, deep respect for animals, and strong partnerships with independent family farmers and ranchers.
Our Raised with Care® philosophy reflects this belief. It guides how our farmers and ranchers care for animals every day – providing space, respect, and thoughtful stewardship at every stage of life. From the very beginning, this approach has shaped how Niman Ranch animals are raised.
That’s why all Niman Ranch pork, beef, lamb, and prepared products are proudly Certified Humane® Raised and Handled. This certification provides independent, third-party verification that the care our farmers have long practiced meets rigorous, science-based animal welfare standards.
Our approach to animal care has also been independently recognized by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC), the nonprofit organization behind the Certified Humane program, for aligning with its strict animal welfare standards.
But what does Certified Humane really mean—and why does it matter?
What Is Certified Humane® Raised and Handled?
The Certified Humane label is administered by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC), an independent nonprofit organization that sets and enforces strict, science-based animal welfare standards.
For Niman Ranch farmers and ranchers, certification doesn’t define how animals are raised – it validates the care they’ve practiced from the very beginning, from birth through harvest.
Certified Humane Standards at Niman Ranch
Guided by our Raised with Care philosophy, Niman Ranch farmers and ranchers focus on animal well-being at every stage of life, an approach that aligns naturally with Certified Humane standards.
Animals Are Never Confined
Certified Humane standards prohibit cages, crates, and tie stalls. Animals must have the freedom to move, rest, and behave naturally.
- Our pigs are given space to walk, turn around, and root – natural behaviors that support both well-being and health.
No Growth Hormones or Routine Antibiotics
Animals are raised on a nutritious, quality diet and are never given added hormones or antibiotics. This approach supports animal health while aligning with Niman Ranch’s philosophy of responsible, transparent farming.
Humane Handling from Farm to Harvest
All Certified Humane operations must comply with North American Meat Institute (NAMI) animal handling guidelines, developed by renowned animal welfare expert Dr. Temple Grandin.
These standards focus on minimizing stress and ensuring animals are treated with care and respect at every stage.
Why Humane Animal Care Matters – for Animals and for You
Humane animal care isn’t just a principle; it directly impacts quality. Animals raised in low-stress environments with proper care tend to produce meat with better texture, better flavor, and a more consistent eating experience.
For Niman Ranch, this connection between animal well-being and quality has always been clear. Certified Humane confirms what our farmers and ranchers have known – and practiced – for generations.
How to Spot Certified Humane Products
Look for the Certified Humane® logo on Niman Ranch packages. It’s a clear signal that the meat you’re choosing meets verified, third-party animal welfare standards – and reflects the values of the farmers who raised it.
Our Commitment, Clearly Defined
Niman Ranch’s Certified Humane designation didn’t change how our farmers raise animals – it affirmed it.
Rooted in our Raised with Care philosophy, we’re committed to responsible farming, animal well-being, and producing meat we’re proud to serve.
Better meat comes from better farming.
And better farming starts with caring for animals the right way.
FAQ: Certified Humane® at Niman Ranch
What does Certified Humane mean?
Certified Humane means animals are raised according to strict, third-party–verified standards that prioritize animal welfare, natural behaviors, and humane handling from birth through harvest.
Is all Niman Ranch meat Certified Humane?
Yes. All Niman Ranch pork, beef, lamb, and prepared products are Certified Humane Raised and Handled.
What does Raised with Care® mean at Niman Ranch?
Raised with Care™ is Niman Ranch’s philosophy that guides how our farmers and ranchers raise animals—with respect, responsibility, and attention to animal well-being. Certified Humane provides independent verification that these practices meet established animal welfare standards.
Are animals given antibiotics or growth hormones?
No. Certified Humane standards prohibit added growth hormones and the routine use of antibiotics.
Why does humane animal care improve meat quality?
Animals raised in low-stress environments with proper care tend to produce meat with better texture, flavor, and overall eating quality.
Who verifies Certified Humane standards?
Certified Humane standards are verified by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC), an independent nonprofit organization that conducts audits and inspections.