Jason said:
The reason USDA had to step in and make rules for "organic" products was because the term was being used for any and everything.
Jason, you are wrong and you are right...the name 'organic' was being abused because it had no official standing with FSIS, but there was a network of certifying organization around the USA. These were organizations of organic producers that were self certifying/policing themselves. They inspected farms and farm records before a producer could use the term "certified organic". FSIS should have recognized this term to be used on a label when the application came through the certifying organizations.
At the American Grassfed Association, we are doing something similar to this. Regardless of the final FSIS 'grassfed' requirements, AGA will have a complete protocol to insure 100% forage fed, no hormones, chemicals, or antibiotics added and other requirements of the producer. Following the protocol and being certified would allow a producer to use the term "AGA Grassfed" or something similar. We will get FSIS to approve this as a specific label term...which will have meaning to the consumer.
R2, try to buy from a producer you can call and talk to...we need your support and business. Look on eatwild.com and localharvest.com to find a producer in your area. Thanks for your support.
