News
Grow local, test for chemicals, study of preferences for organic foods suggests

May 30,
2008, Guelph, Ont. – A recent study is suggesting the public strongly
favours local growing and regular pesticide testing for organic
products as new national regulations are set to take effect later this
year.

A recent study is suggesting the public strongly favours local growing
and regular pesticide testing for organic products as new national
regulations are set to take effect later this year.

However, University of Guelph researcher John Cranfield noted neither
preference is included in the regulations coming into effect in
December.

Cranfield says his interest in the subject was piqued when the
government announced in September 2006 its intention to set national
standards for organic foods.

He says the study of about 180 people suggests the national standards
could be a bare minimum, and companies could go further to meet public
expectations for organic products.

The executive director of a national organization representing organic
growers and consumers says regular testing and requiring food to be
grown locally isn't always feasible due to cost.

Laura Telford, of the Canadian Organic Growers, says many consumers
don't understand that organic doesn't always mean pesticide-free
because chemicals can be transported by wind, rain and other
environmental elements.

The Canadian Press