News Release
Contact: Barbara Haumann, 413-774-7511 Ext. 20, bhaumann@ota.com
For Immediate Release

Organic Trade Association Files a Motion for a Summary Judgment in its Suit Challenging Ohio’s New Dairy Labeling Rule
OTA seeks dairy labeling rule that represents consumers rights to know how their food is grown

COLUMBUS, Ohio (July 28, 2008) – The Organic Trade Association (OTA), which represents the organic industry in North America, has filed a motion for a summary judgment in its case challenging Ohio’s “emergency” dairy labeling rule.

“Ohio’s rule puts the organic standards at risk and denies consumers their rights to know how their food is grown,” said David Gagnon, OTA’s Interim Executive Director. OTA’s summary judgment motion, which was filed Friday, July 25, argues that consumers have a right to know, and want to know, about the products they purchase, and organic farmers and processors have a right to communicate with their consumers regarding federally regulated organic production practices. The suit seeks to protect consumers’ rights to receive truthful information about how organic milk and dairy products are produced, and the rights of organic dairy farmers and processors to communicate truthfully with consumers.