For Immediate Release
Contact: Barbara Haumann, 413-774-7511, Ext. 20

Organic Trade Association tells USDA: 'Naturally Raised' claim would only add to consumer confusion

GREENFIELD, Mass. (Jan. 29, 2008)- In a comment submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) yesterday, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) advised the agency that its proposed voluntary standard for a 'naturally raised' marketing claim for livestock products would only further confuse consumers.

"This proposed voluntary standard, if adopted, is bound to add to consumer confusion. Consumers already do not understand 'natural' claims on products, and this proposal will only further muddy the waters on what such claims mean," said Caren Wilcox, OTA's Executive Director. "The organic label, meanwhile, covers both how animals are raised and how meat is processed, and all organic animal products sold in the U.S. must meet or exceed U.S. organic standards."