The popularity of packaged salads has fueled increasing demand for organic spinach, but the success of the product has come with growing pains—namely, a fungal disease so widespread and destructive …
Despite Rising Demand, U.S. Doesn’t Do Enough to Support Organic Transition
by Colin O’Neil, Agriculture Policy Director, Environmental Working Group More and more Americans want to avoid toxic pesticides on the foods they are buying and feeding their families. But the …
U.S. Lacking in Organic Meat Processors
A report from the Organic Farming Research Foundation says the United States lacks enough organic meat processors. In the National Organic Research Agenda Report, the group concluded that although sales …
Organic Farmers Group Growing
The Organic Farmers Association is gaining momentum, according to Politico. The group, organized by the Rodale (roh-dale) Institute, has formed a steering committee and will hold leadership elections early next …
Agri View: Eating Habits
Everett Griner talks about how our eating habits have changed in today’s Agri View.
Rising Demand for Organic and Non-GMO Grains Outpaces U.S. Production
Rising demand for organic and non-GMO foods led to a sharp rise in organic grain imports last year. A new report by CoBank says U.S. production of non-GMO crops has …
Organic Welfare Rule Delayed
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it is delaying implementation of a controversial new rule on animal welfare standards for organic livestock and poultry.
USDA NASS Conducting Certified Organic Survey
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is conducting the 2016 Certified Organic Survey to gather new data on certified organic crops and livestock commodities in …
Conaway Disappointed in Organic Animal Welfare Rule
Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (R-TX) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service release of its new organic animal welfare standards.
USDA Strengthens Integrity of the Organic Label
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced a final rule that strengthens the integrity of the organic label by clarifying production requirements for organic livestock and …
Another ‘Midnight’ Regulation Dumped On Farmers
In another poke in the eye to agriculture, the Obama administration tomorrow will issue a regulation that adds animal welfare standards to the nation’s organic food production law. The National …
Proposal to Establish a New Organic Research, Promotion, and Information Order
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking comments on a proposal for a new industry-funded research and promotion program. The proposed Organic Research, Promotion, and Information Order would cover …
Proposed Organic Livestock Farm Rules Not Guaranteed
Rules that would change the production of organic meat are awaiting President Obama’s approval but may run out of time. That means they might not ever go into effect. The …
Cost Share Opportunities for Organic Producers/Handlers
Organic Producers and Handlers May Apply for Certification Cost Share Reimbursements; Expanded Eligibility for Transition and State Certification Cost The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that starting March 20, …