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Will Next-Gen GMO Techniques be Kept out of Organics?
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB), the 15-member panel recommending organic policy to the USDA's National Organic Program (NOP), is expected to vote on whether to add three genetic engineering techniques to its list of excluded methods for organics.
Convening in Jacksonville, Fla., for its fall meeting from Oct. 31- Nov. 2, the NOSB will be considering a dozen proposals put forth by its six subcommittees.
Learn more here.
NOP Actions Underway on the OIG Audit Report re: International Trade
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducts independent audits and investigations of the Department's programs and operations. The OIG published findings from its audit on "National Organic Program International Trade Arrangements and Agreements." OIG began its review of the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP) in early 2016.
The audit evaluated NOP’s internal controls for approving and overseeing international trade arrangements and agreements that allow organic imports into the United States.
Learn more here.
OTA Organic Awards Dinner Draws Hundreds to Applaud Organic Change-makers
The all-organic banquet was amazing and delicious. Sweet potato latkes, artichoke and chicken roulades, stuffed red peppers with smoked tofu and sprouted quinoa, a chocolate peanut butter avocado mousse for dessert...and more! But the voices and accomplishments of a group of distinguished, dedicated and determined organic innovators and visionaries being honored Wednesday evening by the Organic Trade Association were what made the evening memorable.
Read more here.
Gladstone Land Acquires Organic Farm in Washington State for $9.5 Million
Gladstone Land Corporation (NASDAQ:LAND) ("Gladstone Land" or the "Company") announced that it has acquired a 746-acre organic farm in Walla Walla, Washington for $9.5 million. Upon acquisition, Gladstone Land assumed a lease with a remaining term of six years with a leading farming operation that currently grows apples, wine grapes, and cherries on the farm.
Learn more here.
Top-selling Organic Apple Brand Daisy Girl Eyes Pouch Bag Sales Gain
Columbia Marketing International LLC (CMI), owner of the Daisy Girl brand of organic apples, said with organic apple production estimated to be up by 15 percent in the 2017 season, it is planning to expand distribution.
Learn more here.
“Organic is no longer a niche market and everyone is taking notice."
- Almassy Dane, Earthbound Farm
