Australian organic farmers and retailers are raising concerns over the misuse of the "organic" label, which they argue leads to consumer deception.

This issue stems from the lack of a legal definition and certification requirement for organic products sold domestically in Australia. As a result, products can be marketed as organic without adhering to specific standards, potentially misleading consumers willing to pay a premium for organic goods.

The Coalition has proposed legislation to address this issue by establishing a legal definition for "organic" and restricting its usage to products that meet a mandatory standard. This move aims to align domestic regulations with the existing national standard for organic exports, which mandates certification by an accredited body and emphasizes sustainable practices.

Organic producers, such as Sonya Dowling of Enviroganic Farm in New South Wales, have reported instances of their brand names being misused alongside the organic label on non-supplied products. This highlights the broader issue of greenwashing within the industry, affecting not just poultry but also other sectors like cosmetics and produce.

Jackie Brian, CEO of Australian Organic Limited, pointed out that Australia remains the only developed country without domestic regulation for its organics industry. The lack of regulation allows products with minimal organic content to be marketed as organic, creating unfair competition for certified operators. A national domestic standard would not only protect consumers but also simplify the export process by eliminating the need for multiple certifications.

Despite the apparent benefits, the introduction of a domestic standard has been hindered by internal disagreements within the organic sector and concerns over the impact on smaller operators. The proposed legislation includes a three-year transition period for certification, with an exemption for operators with an annual turnover of less than $25,000 to mitigate financial burdens on small-scale producers.

The government is considering the recommendations from an inquiry into the bill, with a report due on 31 January. The outcome could significantly impact the organic sector, offering clearer guidelines for consumers and producers alike.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com