Many farmers want to ensure their livestock receive the most nutritional animal feed available. However, trying to distinguish between labels that certify quality can be a challenge. If you want to learn more about the products you’re choosing for your farm, here’s an overview of the differences between organic and non-GMO feed.

What Is Organic Animal Feed?

Organic refers to the way the product was grown. Feed that carries a “certified organic” label was farmed without the presence of synthetic pesticides or herbicides. The crops are prohibited from being grown using either petroleum-based or sewer-sludge fertilizers.

Instead, organic agriculture uses natural fertilizers, including hay and manure. This label also requires natural weed and pest control methods, such as crop rotation and traps, respectively.

What Is Non-GMO Animal Feed?

GMO stands for “genetically modified organism.” This process makes crops more resistant to pesticides and other treatments. Some of the most common genetically modified foods are corn and soy, which are often included in animal feed.

Non-GMO crops do not contain bioengineered materials. While organic food can be non-GMO because it has no modifications, non-GMO feed is not always organic. Even if crops have not been modified in any way, they can still be grown using practices that do not fit organic standards. For instance, if non-GMO corn is grown using synthetic fertilizers, it cannot be labeled as organic. 

If you’re looking for healthy animal feed, visit Farmers Cooperative in Live Oak, FL. Serving farmers and gardeners throughout Suwannee and Madison counties since 1946, they’ve carried a wide variety of quality food for pets, chickens, cattle, and specialty animals. This hardware store also supplies a variety of building materials, farming and gardening equipment, and propane. Visit them online to learn more about their products, or call (386) 362-1459 to place an order.