News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: Barbara Haumann
413-376-1220

Organic Trade Association presents stance at Kansas hearing
OTA opposes labeling regulation affecting organic dairy products

GREENFIELD, Mass. (Dec. 2, 2008)—The Organic Trade Association (OTA) today provided testimony in Kansas opposing a proposed state regulation that would prevent truthful production claims concerning the non-use of synthetic growth hormones, toxic pesticides and antibiotics on dairy labels.

Speaking on behalf of OTA, Laura Batcha, OTA’s Public Relations Director, told the Kansas Department of Agriculture, “The proposed rule prevents dairy farmers and processors from truthfully communicating with retailers and consumers regarding federally regulated organic production practices. It also prevents Kansan consumers from exercising full and free choice in determining which products they wish to purchase.” She added, “The Kansas regulation provides no exception for certified organic dairy processors who are forbidden by federal law from treating their cows with rBST, nor does the regulation provide any exception for claims which are demonstrably true and verifiable.”