Frequently Asked Questions

About Grass-Fed

What does "grass-fed" mean?

Grass-fed means that animals are raised on a diet of grass and forage for their entire lives, rather than being finished on grain in a feedlot. True grass-fed animals have continuous access to pasture during the growing season.

What is the difference between grass-fed and grass-finished?

"Grass-fed" can sometimes refer to animals that were raised on grass but finished on grain before slaughter. "Grass-finished" means the animal ate only grass and forage its entire life. At NGFA, our standards require animals to be both grass-fed and grass-finished.

Why is grass-fed better?

Grass-fed products are generally higher in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and vitamins. Grass-fed farming is also better for the environment, promoting healthy soil, biodiversity, and reduced carbon emissions.

About Certification

How does the NGFA certification process work?

Our certification process includes a thorough application review followed by an on-site farm visit conducted by one of our trained inspectors. We verify all claims in person to ensure full compliance with NGFA grass-fed standards.

How much does certification cost?

Certification pricing is based on several factors including your acreage, herd size, operation complexity, and whether you are applying for new certification or renewal. Visit our Certification page to learn more and request a personalized quote.

How long does certification take?

The process typically takes 4–8 weeks from application to certification, depending on scheduling availability for the site visit and the completeness of your documentation.

How long is certification valid?

NGFA certification is valid for one year. Annual renewals are required to maintain certified status, and renewal site visits may be conducted at our discretion.

Membership & General

Who can become NGFA certified?

Any farmer or rancher in the United States who raises grass-fed livestock and meets our standards is eligible to apply for NGFA certification.

How do I get started?

The best first step is to contact us to discuss your operation and learn whether you meet our baseline requirements. Our team is happy to walk you through the process.

Does NGFA certification help me sell my products?

Yes! NGFA certification signals to consumers, retailers, and distributors that your products meet verified grass-fed standards. It builds trust and can open doors to premium markets and pricing.