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1. OTA Announces Virtual Trade Missions
Organic exporters will be able to “travel” to Asia, Europe and other spots around the globe from the comfort of their kitchen tables in September. In virtual meetings made possible by the Organic Trade Association, they’ll explore business opportunities, learn about new markets, make connections, and show off their products to top organic buyers, all while never leaving their homes or offices. Read More
2. Organic Diet Can Reduce Pesticides in Your Body
Never before have we sprayed so much of a chemical on our food, on our yards, on our children’s playgrounds. So it’s no surprise that Roundup-the world’s most widely used weedkiller-shows up in our bodies. What is perhaps surprising is how easy it is to get it out. Read More
3. USDA Accepting Applications to Cover Costs for Organic Certification
USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced that organic producers and handlers can apply for federal funds to assist with the cost of receiving and maintaining organic certification through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP). Applications for eligible certification expenses paid between Oct. 1, 2019, and Sept. 30, 2020, are due Oct. 31, 2020. Learn More
4. Keep on Organic Summer Fruit for September Success
Summer is cruising by and Stemilt’s Artisan Organics peach and nectarine season is doing the same. Now is the time to plan and push sales starting Labor Day and through the remainder of September, according to Brianna Shales, Stemilt’s senior marketing manager. Retailers should plan ads and focus on creative displays to show off their summer fruit category. Read More
5. USDA Explores Blockchain for Organic Food Traceability
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) proposed amending existing USDA regulations for organic agricultural products, including using digital ledger technology (DLT) for supply chain traceability. The amendments aim to reinforce production oversight and enforcement, as well as the handling and sale of the products. Read More
