The Meaning of Fair Trade, Organic and Certified Organic

This article originates from www.organicconsumers.org and it explains what "Fair Trade" means and what "Organic" means.

Fair Trade- this standard stipulates that the traders have to:

-pay a price to producers that covers the costs of sustainable production and living

-pay a premium that producers can invest in development

-partially pay in advance, when producers ask for it

-sign contracts that allow for long-term planning and sustainable production practices

Organic-refers to the way agricultural products-food and fiber-are grown and processed.  Organic food production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers.  Organic foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation to maintain the integrity of the food.

Certified Organic-means the item has been grown according to strict uniform standards that are verified by independent state or private organizations. Certification includes inspections of farm fields and processing facilities, detailed record keeping, and periodic testing of soil and water to ensure that growers and handlers are meeting the standards which have been set.  

You can find more information on organic standards at: USDA National Organic Program