What 'Certified Organic' Means... And What it Doesn't

At 4th Generation Organic Market, we've learned that labels can be confusing, and sometimes downright deceiving. This is especially true when it comes to terms like “all natural,” “fresh,” “fat-free” and “organic.” This month, we're going to take a look at the term "organic" – specifically what “Certified Organic” really means.

The USDA's National Organic Program (NOP) is responsible for oversight of the organic foods industry, and has strict standards on how the term “organic” can be used in food labeling. Even with these regulations, many so-called organic foods may not really be completely organic.

To carry the certified “USDA Organic” seal, foods must contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients and pass rigorous licensing requirements. Organic foods are never genetically modified or engineered, nor are they ever irradiated. Organic food production limits the release of toxic chemicals into the environment and into our food supply. By eating organic foods you support a healthy lifestyle for yourself, your children, and for farm workers in the fields.

On single ingredient foods such as organic produce, eggs, and milk, look for the USDA Organic logo or produce sticker numbers beginning with 9. For foods with multiple ingredients, there are a number of classifications the NOP uses, depending on the percentage of organic ingredients in the food. Here's an overview of the different categories:

• 100% Organic: Foods with this labeling contain only organic ingredients (excluding water and salt), and may display the USDA Organic seal on their packaging.
• Organic: Foods with this labeling must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, by weight. The remaining ingredients may not be available organically, but they must be approved by the NOP before the food can carry the USDA Organic seal.
• Made with organic ingredients: To make this claim, foods must contain at least 70-94% organic ingredients. They do not carry the USDA Organic seal, but they may advertise up to three organic ingredients on the front of the packaging.
• Foods containing less than 70% organic ingredients are restricted from advertising as organic or carrying the USDA seal, though they may still note any organic ingredients on the information panel of the packaging.

Your friends at 4th Generation believe that accurate information is key to helping our families choose healthy, sustainable living. If you have any questions about where or how any of our foods are grown or produced, please don't be afraid to ask! We're here for you, and we're here for organic food.