Many products available in the market today are considered organic. These products promote health and wellness in the body since they were not grown using synthetic fertilizers and harmful chemicals. Aside from being beneficial to the body, certified organic products also help in the preservation of the natural resources.Non-Organic Foods and Health
People today are leaning towards organic choices instead of opting for food grown using current farming methods. They have recognized that products sprayed with chemicals and nourished using synthetic fertilizers wreak havoc on health. Certain ingredients in these fertilizers such as lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, chromium, nickel and beryllium are suspected carcinogens. These elements, when accumulated in the body, can later lead to irreversible diseases.
National Organic Program (NOP)
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) regulates standards on organic growing. Farmers can gain use of the organic USDA certification if they pass the stringent standards set by the USDA on organic production in accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) of 1990. This act primarily sets rules and standards in the whole country regarding the production of organic foods. The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has mandated the verification of organic farming and handling. Under the NOP Final Rule, every product with an organic label in the US must be certified.
There are currently 98 USDA Accredited Certifying Agents (ACAs). In the United States, there are about 56 ACAs, while there are 42 international accredited ACAs.
Quality Assurance International (QAI)
Currently, the leading ACA is Quality Assurance International (QAI). They verify approximately 2 out of 3 organic products for sale. This ISO 65 (U.S.) ensures the integrity of organic food and fiber products. Founded in 1989, this ISO 65 corporation performs certification activities guaranteeing that every stage of a product’s production meets regulatory standards on behalf of the USDA.
When a producer or manufacturer decides to get certified through this independent third-party, they must go through a detailed process. This involves an application, inspection, technical review and resolution & notification of their organic food systems. Once approved, they will then receive QAI certification.
Identifying Organic Products
While looking for organic, you may have seen variations in organic labeling. The NOP labels products according to their organic content. If a product has a “100% organic” label, its ingredients are organically produced and the processes used are also organic. If a product has an “organic” label, 95% of its ingredients at the very least are organic. The remaining 5% must be on the list of nonagricultural substances approved by the NOP as well. Indeed, organic labeling is important so that you may know to what degree a product has been deemed organic.
Choosing organic products is beneficial for the overall health of your family. You are also helping the environment and the small farmers who aim to bring healthy products on the market.
