Certified Organic
What is Organic?
Organic produce is the end product of an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony. The principal guidelines for organic production are the use of materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole. Organic farming systems rely on methods and inputs such as crop rotation, animal and green manures, mechanical cultivation and the utilization of aspects of biological pest control which maintain soil productivity. These measures are also used to supply plants nutrients and control insects, weeds and other pests.
What does "certified organic" mean?
In California, labels that read "certified organic" tell the customer that the foods they purchase have been verified as organically grown by an independent third party. These third party agencies must enforce, at a minimum; the standards set by the California Organic Foods Act. CCOF certified produce meets standards beyond those set in the California law. To be certified, our growers must undergo farm inspections, including soil nutrient analysis. They also must document all crop and soil inputs, and must develop soil fertility and pest control plans so that in case of unexpected problems, the grower has a plan in place to deal with the problem without resorting to prohibited materials. CCOF growers must document all crop and soil inputs and develop soil fertility and pest control plans. If unexpected problems arise, the grower then has a plan to deal with the situation without resorting to prohibited materials.
Why is certification important?
Certification protects consumers from fraud. Consumers who buy produce with the CCOF sunflower seal know the growers of the produce meet stringent standards of production and record keeping. Although growers may claim their produce is organic without certification, the extra step offers assurance that the grower has been required to document and demonstrate the organic claim.
Click on these links to learn more about some of our Organic Growers and Shippers
