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Stemilt Artisan Organics™ Cherry Retail Opportunity
The Wenatchee, WA-based grower/shipper has increased its share of Artisan Organics™ cherries in June, making it possible for a pre-July 4th organic promotion. Stemilt will have continuous supplies of organic dark-sweet cherries now through July.
Miles McEvoy Joins IFOAM Committee
Former Deputy Administrator of USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) Miles McEvoy has been appointed to serve on the Standards Committee of IFOAM-Organics International. As such, he is the sole U.S. representative on the committee, which is scheduled to revise the IFOAM Standard over the next three years. Other new members on the Standards Committee include Reza Adakani (Iran), Stephen Barrow (South Africa), Paul van den Berge (Switzerland), Mahesh Chander (India) Jan Deane (UK) Sarah Hathway (UK), Dani Neifeld (Israel), and Dimistris Sotiropoulos (Greece).
QAI Updates on Exporting Organic Products to Taiwan
Quality Assurance International ,QAI is implementing mandatory testing for prohibited materials of 100% of products being shipped to Taiwan, and proof of non-detection by the shipper of the product, prior to the issuance of TM11’s (Taiwan export certificates). Products must be tested using the Taiwan protocol from an accredited lab. This policy will go into effect as of June 15, 2018.
New Non Profit in Maine Distributes Organic Produce and Meals
In 2017, non profit Scatter Good Farm grew and distributed over 3,600 pounds of organic produce, the equivalent of 3,000 meals. This year, they will grow and distribute at least 8,000 pounds, while expanding to Durham, Lisbon, Lisbon Falls, Auburn and Lewiston. In 2019, thanks to the expansion of their growing area, they plan to grow and distribute at least 24,000 pounds.
Hemp Bill Opens Possibility for Certified Organic Hemp Production
The California Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 1409 (R-Wilk-21) and is now being considered in the Assembly. SB 1409 would remove barriers to hemp cultivation in California by authorizing the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to establish an industrial hemp pilot program, update and match the definition of hemp and increase access to hemp seed. CCOF joined hemp advocacy groups in support of SB 1409 because the bill would ensure that hemp grown for food and fiber in California is eligible for organic certification.
Learn more. 
"The organic category is on fire and people are passionate about it. It’s fun to be part of something with a huge growth potential." - Chance Kirk,
Vincent B. Zaninovich & Sons
