Decoding Organic Labels
Posted on August 8, 2007 by
The other day we talked about the differences between the terms natural and organic, but there’s some variation in the way the term organic is used and which products qualify for the USDA Organic Seal.
You may have noticed that some foods are labeled 100% organic, while other foods are labeled simply organic or made with organic ingredients. The terms related to the labeling of organic products are specific and regulated, so lets take a look at what they really mean.
Oregon Tilth, a non-profit organization that is the world leader in organic certification, has a great chart to help you understand the meaning behind the words.
| 100% Organic | All organic ingredients Any processing aids used must be organic No non-organic ingredients are used USDA Seal allowed Must list organic certification agent Example: 100% Organic Cereal |
| Organic | At least 95% organic ingredients Remaining 5% can be non-organic allowed ingredients (i.e. vitamins, citric acid, baking powder) All agricultural ingredients must be organic unless not available USDA Seal allowedin general, organic food is a little more expensive, and Must list certification agent Example: Organic Cereal |
| Made with Organic Ingredients | At least 70% organic ingredients Remaining 30% can be non-organic allowed ingredients (i.e. vitamins, citric acid, baking powder) OR non-organic agricultural ingredients USDA Seal prohibited Must list certification agent Example: Cereal made with organic oats, raisins, and dates |
| Products with less than 70% Organic Ingredients | Any level of organic ingredients No restrictions on remaining ingredients No certification claims can be made USDA Seal prohibited Only mention organic in ingredient listing Example: ingredients: organic oats, organic raisins |
Not all thinks organic are equal, so pay attention to labels. A food that isn’t 100% organic can still be a good purchase, but it’s important to know what you’re buying.
Excellent rundown!