In the context of livestock, what does “free-range” mean?

The term "free-range" in livestock management specifically refers to animals being allowed to roam outdoors for a portion of the day. This practice promotes natural behaviors and gives animals access to fresh air, sunlight, and the ability to engage in instinctive activities like foraging. The concept of free-range is often associated with the notion of higher welfare standards, as animals have the opportunity to experience a more natural environment compared to those that are exclusively confined.

In contrast, confinement refers to systems where animals are kept indoors or in limited space for their entire lives, restricting their ability to move freely. Feeding exclusively on grains describes a diet regimen rather than living conditions, which does not pertain to the "free-range" definition. Similarly, temperature-controlled environments indicate specific housing conditions that do not reflect the freedom associated with the term; animals in these settings may not have outdoor access. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of what "free-range" means in terms of livestock management.