What Are MOFGA/USDA Certified Organic Herbs?

Definition of Organic

• According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service, an organic herb is one grown without chemical pesticides or petroleum-based or sewage sludge-based fertilizers. The herb must not have been genetically engineered or radiated. Generally speaking, the law allows producers to use natural substances in organic products; it bans synthetic substances, with some exceptions.

USDA Agricultural Marketing Service

• The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) develops standards for the organic production of agricultural products within five commodity areas. Herbs fall under the fruits and vegetables commodity group. AMS also is responsible for administering the USDA Organic certification program. As part of that duty, the AMS accredits certifying agents in the U.S. and abroad. According to the USDA, these agents inspect organic operations to ensure they meet USDA standards.

Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association

• MOFGA bills itself as the nation's largest and oldest organic organization. Its mission is to support rural communities and local food production by helping farmers and gardeners grow organic food and fiber. In so doing, it also helps to protect the environment from chemicals and irresponsible farming practices. As an AMS agent, MOFGA is approved to inspect and certify products under the USDA Organic program.

The USDA Organic Seal

• You'll find the USDA Organic seal on herb packaging itself or on signs near displays of organic herbs. Products with labels stating they're "100 percent organic" must contain all organic ingredients. "Organic" products must be 95 percent organic. Processed foods, like mixed spices, can have just 70 percent organic ingredients and still have "made with organic ingredients" on their labels. The packaging may not display the USDA Organic seal unless they are 95 percent organic. Herbs with labels stating that they're "natural" are not necessarily organic. You should assume that any herb that lacks a USDA Organic seal is not organic.