USDA Rules Leave US Organics Disadvantaged Against Imports, Alleges Watchdog

A Wisconsin-based organic industry watchdog group warns that United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) rules are leaving American farmers at a major disadvantage compared to imported foods that can claim organic status with less oversight and fewer requirements.

The group has requested the U.S. Inspector General conduct a formal investigation into correct implementations of organic food regulations.

The group, OrganicEye, has accused the USDA of betraying “its commitment — and the legal requirement — that all organic food come from independently certified and inspected farms.”

The result is cheaper imports that have less oversight and can out-price American-grown produce.

OrganicEye says this is due to five key factors:

1. Under U.S. federal law and congressional mandate, organic farms are subject to an annual inspection of their operations. 

This includes, but is not limited to, the examination of the growing and harvesting process, handling and packaging management of the produce, and inspection of the farm’s facilities.

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