Organic News

Organic crop practices improve long-term soil health

Prior organic farming practices and plantings can have lasting outcomes for future soil health, weeds and crop yields, according to Cornell research published Nov. 13 in the journal Agricultural Systems. The study also breaks down how specific components of soil health—such as the abundance and activity of soil animals and soil stability—affect crop productivity. “With growing […]

Certified organic flavors now required in organic products

A final rule published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program (NOP) now requires the use of certified organic flavors in certified organic products when they are commercially available. The rule was implemented and went into effect on December 27, 2019. “It is now time that the regulations catch up with the marketplace,” […]

Pipeline Foods purchases Organic Ventures’ ancient grains and specialty products business

Minneapolis-based Pipeline Foods LLC, a U.S.-based supply chain solutions company focused exclusively on organic, non-GMO and regenerative food and feed, will acquire the ancient grains and specialty products business of Organic Ventures. The sale adds ancient grains to Pipeline Foods’ offerings, further strengthening its organic corn product line. Board Chairman Eric Jackson cites the goal […]

Natural Grocers customers raise over $100,000 in support of organic farming and sustainable agriculture

Customers made in-store donations during Organic Harvest Month, exceeding the original goal of $50,000 In September, Organic Harvest Month, Natural Grocers customers raised $100,585 for the Organic Farmers Association, an organization led and controlled by certified organic farmers that works to create a strong voice for all organic farmers. Natural Grocers shoppers across 19 states made in-store […]

Missouri farmer gets prison term for organic farming fraud

Another player in the “Field of Schemes” case—the largest organic grain fraud plot in U.S. history—will spend time behind bars. John Burton of Missouri is the fifth farmer to receive a prison sentence; a federal judge in Cedar Rapids sentenced him to 22 months. Burton supposedly grew non-organic grain and sold it to farmer Randy […]