Colorado State University Extension
SafeFood Rapid Response Network
SAFEFOOD NEWS - Summer 2000 - Vol 4 / No. 4
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Revised Proposal for National Organic Standards
After more than two years of delay to review 275,603 comments received as a result of the first proposed ruling, a national standard for organically produced foods is a bit closer to reality. On March 7, 2000, Agricultural Secretary Dan Glickman announced the revised proposal for National Organic Standards, along with a 90-day comment period.
The proposal offers a national definition for the term "organic." Currently, organic food is certified by various private and state organizations that each use their own standards for the term "organic."
"A single national organic standard, backed by consistent and accurate labeling, will greatly reduce consumer confusion," said Glickman in announcing the revised proposal. "Consumers will know what they are buying and organic farmers will know what is expected of them."
The proposal details the methods, practices, and substances that can be used in producing and handling organic crops and livestock, as well as processed products. It establishes clear labeling criteria and rules so that consumers know exactly what they are buying when they purchase organic food. It specifically prohibits the use of genetic engineering, sewage sludge, and irradiation in the production of food products labeled "organic." The proposal also prohibits antibiotics in organic livestock production and requires 100 percent organic feed for organic livestock.
USDA estimates that the value of retail sales of organic foods in 1999 was approximately $6 billion. The number of organic farmers is increasing about 12 percent per year and now stands at about 12,200 nationwide, most of them small-scale producers.
Source: Glickman Announces New Proposal For National Organic Standards. USDA Press Release, March 7, 2000.
