The tightened USDA regulation, after years of debate, also addresses other issues regarding animal health, such as transportation and slaughter practices for all animal species.
The standards for 'grazing' and 'access to pasture' have applied since 2010 to organic dairy and beef farms, but not yet to poultry farming. American animal owners now have one year to implement the new rules. For poultry farmers, there is an exception: current organic poultry farmers have up to five years to comply.
It is now clearly stated that enclosed, closed verandas for chickens, turkeys, and ducks are not considered adequate biologically responsible outdoor access. Some large American poultry companies currently have narrow, enclosed verandas – mostly with a concrete floor – instead of real outdoor access. This is viewed as distorting competition within the organic food production sector.
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) responded positively to the enforcement of the new regulation. "These new standards not only create a more level playing field for organic producers but also ensure that consumers can be confident that the organic meat, poultry, dairy, and eggs they choose are raised with sufficient access to the real outdoors and under humane conditions," stated the American trade association for organic food products.