Eat · Guide · 3 min read
Regenerative and organic food
Updated November 2026
USDA Organic food is certified to the national organic standard, which bars most synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, genetic engineering and irradiation. Regenerative Organic Certified starts from that standard and adds requirements for soil health, animal welfare and fair treatment of farmworkers.
What the labels mean
- USDA Organic
- Farm ingredients are certified organic. Anything else is capped at 5% of the product and must come from a short approved list. The label may carry the USDA organic seal.
- Made with organic ingredients
- At least 70% of the ingredients are certified organic. The label cannot carry the USDA organic seal.
- Regenerative Organic Certified
- Starts from USDA organic certification and adds requirements for soil health, animal welfare and fair treatment of farmworkers. Led by the Regenerative Organic Alliance.
LAeats picks
Ranked by LAeats score. Certifications come from the producer.
- Alexandre A2/A2 100% Grass-Fed Organic Milk $ · Regenerative Organic, Grass-Fed & Pasture-Raised, Organic
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between organic and regenerative organic?
Organic sets the rules for how the crop is grown. Regenerative Organic Certified requires organic certification first, then adds standards for soil health, animal welfare and fair treatment of farmworkers.
Does "made with organic ingredients" mean the food is organic?
No. At least 70% of the ingredients are certified organic, and the label cannot carry the USDA organic seal.
How does LAeats choose these products?
Every score comes from a named LAeats tester. No one can pay to be listed or to move up. Certifications are published as the brand supplies them.
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