A reminder of what the term “organic” means, and what it does not. Reminds me of Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma.
In fact, current national standards allow dozens of pesticides, chemicals and other synthetic materials in organic food production.
To help enforce national regulations and uncover violations, the organic program depends on a network of certifiers, whose inspectors are paid by farmers and typically visit organic operations once a year, on a prearranged basis.
Critics like the Cornucopia Institute, an organic watchdog group, accuse large corporations of using the word “organic” to sell products that are not true to the original organic philosophy of promoting health, environmental stewardship and small, local farmers.
In fact, foods stamped with the USDA seal may contain up to 5 percent ingredients that are not organic.
Hm. May still contain chemicals, but better than (has fewer?) than more mainstream products? Not sure on this one.
