Santa Cruz Organic

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Certified Organic — A Brief History

On October 21, 2002, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched the National Organic Program, which put into law regulations and standards to ensure that products labeled "organic" are truly organic. Since then, the organic industry has shown increased growth and heightened consumer awareness. Santa Cruz Organic brand commends the USDA for putting organic standards in place and abides by, or exceeds these standards in the production of all its products.

Organic Awareness: According to a 2003 study by the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI), more than 30% of consumers feel that it's important for their grocery store to carry organically grown products, and consumer awareness of organic foods and beverages has increased to 91.3%, up 10% from 2001.

Organic Acreage: In 2001, the USDA Economic Research service found that there were 127,432 acres of certified organic acreage for product in the U.S. Due to increased awareness and growing sales, experts estimate that in 2003 the total acreage will increase to nearly 200,000 acres, a significant increase. Consumers who purchase Santa Cruz Organic® products are helping to promote certified organic acreage.

Organic Advantage: Many consumers feel that choosing organic protects the integrity of soil, streams, rivers, lakes, wildlife and varied plants and insects. See Why Choose Organic for more information on the organic advantage.

Sources:

• "Health and Wellness Trends Report," 2003, Natural Marketing Institute
• "The Sure and Steady Growth of Organics," Produce Business, October 2003, Bareuther, Carol.
• "Is Organic Food Provably Better?" The New York Times, July 16, 2003, Burros, Marian.
• "New reasons for eating organic?" MSNBC, Dec. 18, 2002, Lyman, Francesca.