What Does the "Organic" Label Really Mean?

Consumers no longer have to play a guessing game when it comes to organic foods. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) now has national standards for the use of the word “organic.” Unlike just a few years ago, consumers buying organic products, whether produced in the United States or imported, can be assured that the foods are produced without antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation or bioengineering. Organic farmers are required to adhere to certain soil and water conservation methods and to rules about the humane treatment of animals.

The USDA now uses private and state agencies to inspect and certify food companies that market organic foods. Small farmers with less than $5,000 in organic sales, such as those selling at small farmers’ markets, are exempt from the certification process but they still must be truthful in their label claims and comply with the new government standards. Individuals or companies who sell or label a product as organic when they know it does not meet USDA standards, can be fined up to $10,000 for each violation.

Currently, organic foods represent a small part of overall grocery sales in the United States, but the market is growing steadily. In 2001, sales of organic foods and beverages exceeded $9 billion. The new regulations are expected to help the organic industry as consumers become more confident in the labeling and as larger corporations enter the organic foods market.

As the new regulations are phased in, it is important to keep in mind that the term “organic” does not necessarily mean “healthier.” The USDA makes no claim that organically produced food is safer or more nutritious than conventionally produced food. Consumers will still need to read nutrition labels and make wise selections to maintain an overall healthy diet. Keep in mind that the words “natural” and “organic” are not interchangeable. Only food labeled “organic” designate that the product meets the new USDA organic standards.

For more detailed information about the National Organic Program, visit www.ams.usda.gov/nop or call (202) 720-3252.

Guide to Organic Food Terms

When you buying organic foods, look for the “USDA Organic” label. Only foods in the categories “100% organic” and “organic” may display the USDA Organic Seal. Other foods with varying levels of organic ingredients may be labeled as follows:

• “100% organic” - single ingredient such as a fruit, vegetable, meat, milk and cheese (excludes water and salt).
  
  
• “Organic” - multiple ingredient foods which are 95 to 100% organic.
  
  
• “Made with organic ingredients” - 70% of the ingredients are organic. Can appear on the front of package, naming the specific ingredients.
  
  
• “Contains organic ingredients” - contains less than 70% organic ingredients.