Organic Standards in Jeopardy

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Tipped of by an article on Gothamist, I learned that the USDA may relax organic standards even further than they are currently. From the LA Times:

The agency is considering a list of 38 nonorganic ingredients that will be permitted in organic foods. Because of the broad uses of these ingredients — as colorings and flavorings, for example — almost any type of manufactured organic food could be affected, including cereal, sausage, bread and beer.

This is troubling. 38 ingredients is big list, and it includes starches, some food colorings, sausage casings, gelatin, and some fruit juices, among others. It makes you wonder how long the "Organic" label will retain integrity. Yet another reason to buy local and get to know your farmer!

Related:
Organic Standards May Slide Even Further [Gothamist]
USDA may relax standards for organic foods [LA Times; registration may be required]
List of proposed non-organic ingredients for use in organic foods [LA Times]
Labeling Packaged Products Under the National Organic Program [USDA]
Labeling and Marketing Information [USDA]