On May 12, 2015, the Organic Trade Association (OTA)
submitted a formal petition to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
requesting the establishment of an organic check-off program.
Check-off programs are intended to provide specific
agricultural industries with a method for furthering promotion and
research. Federally legislated and
monitored by USDA, check-off programs are requested, administered, and funded
by each specific industry. Currently, check-off
programs exist for the beef, pork, eggs, soybeans, sorghum, and lamb
industries.
According to OTA, an organic check-off program is necessary because
many consumers are confused regarding the differences between organic, all
natural, and non GMO products. A check-off
program would provide a way for the organic industry to clarify these
differences and promote the organic brand.
Furthermore, OTA cites a need to provide the organic industry with research
regarding pest management solutions.
Under OTA’s proposed check-off plan, all organic producers generating
$250,000 or more in annual gross organic revenue would automatically be enrolled
in the program. Producers generating less
than $250,000 in annual gross organic revenue would have the ability to
voluntarily opt into the program. The
program is to be funded through the collection of assessment fees charged to
organic producers, organic handlers, and organic importers.
OTA acknowledges that the main opposition to the organic
check-off program is found within the organic community. Much of this opposition results from a concern
that the program will only help large scale organic producers at the expense of
small family farms.
Written by M. Sean High - Staff Attorney
May 18, 2015
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