Organic Producers Fear Deregulation May Harm 'Organic' Brand

What's the story?

• As part of its promise to remove "job-killing regulations," the Trump administration has withdrawn, revoked, or ended a number of proposed Obama-era rules that would have set higher standards for raising and manufacturing organic products. Now, some organic producers are worried the move may harm the "organic" brand.
• In March, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officially abandoned the animal-welfare rule, which would have set higher standards for the way animals should be treated if their meat can be sold as "certified organic."
• And in September, a federal audit found the USDA was "unable to provide reasonable assurance" that required documents for imported organic grains were reviewed at domestic ports of entry, among other weaknesses.
• Many organic producers are pushing back against the deregulation, saying it weakens the "organic" label. Last week, the Organic Trade Association tweeted about their opposition to the regulatory rollback:

• And Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME), who's an organic farmer herself, told Bloomberg that she's concerned the Trump administration lacks a clear, long-term policy for organic and this may cause doubt in consumers.

The last thing you want is “for consumers to have a hint of uncertainty about what they are paying for,” Pingree said. “That’s got to be sacred.”

What do you think?

Is the "organic" seal worth it, given disputes on standards? Are jobs more important than animal welfare rules? Do we need a new label for products that adopt higher standards? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

—Josh Herman

(Photo Credit: Ihor Kashurin / iStockphoto)