“Beyond organic” may be weakening USDA organic label

There is concern among organic farmers that use of the phrase “beyond organic” is confusing to consumers, and encourages purchase of foods not regulated by the USDA. Using “beyond organic” to describe products from growers who are not organically-certified allows foods to be sold to consumers who ordinarily support the organic market.

Organic farmer, Katie Kulla, writes, “When my husband and I discuss the organic label with customers today, we hear that many people think organic ‘doesn’t mean anything anymore.’”

Kulla attributes this view to the “beyond organic” label and criticisms of the USDA’s National Organic Program. However, foods that are organic undergo a rigorous certification process and must follow strident standards to receive the federal label.

Full story: Utne

U.S. organic production standards