Top 5 - Organic News to Help You Grow #167

1. Poll Shows Consumers Value Organic More Than Ever in Pandemic

As the initial pantry-loading phase of the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, households of all sizes have begun to settle into longer-term routines and shopping patterns. For those shoppers who prioritize organic, their commitment to the label remains strong, even as so much has changed within their daily lives.    Read More

2. Justice Department Responds on Behalf of USDA in Organic Lawsuit

The Coalition for Sustainable Organics (CSO) is heartened by the initial response of the Department of Justice to defend organic growers’ rights to incorporate appropriate and legitimate growing techniques in their organic operations. The CSO opposes the efforts of the Center for Food Safety and a handful of growers to limit the availability of fresh organic fruits, vegetables, herbs and mushrooms.    Read More

3. Misionero Becomes First Processing-Only Facility with EFI Certification

After two years of hard work and diligence, Misionero, a leading grower and pioneer in the organic leafy greens category, is proud to announce its Gonzales facility received Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) certification. This makes the Gonzales facility the first processing-only facility to be certified in the US, and the first EFI-certified operation located in the Salinas Valley. Misionero’s Yuma, AZ facility is also in process of certification.     Read More

4. Organic Food Growers See Surge in Demand During Pandemic

While many large conventional farms had to destroy millions of pounds of crops, organic producers said customer loyalty and direct sales to retail outlets helped them thrive. Producers in New Hampshire, California and Florida said this week that their only problem was keeping up with increasing demand and maintaining a healthy labor force to handle that demand.     Read More

5. USDA Seeks Five Nominees for NOSB

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeks nominations of qualified individuals for five open seats on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). The 15-member advisory board considers and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and other issues involved in the production, handling and processing of USDA certified organic products.     Read More