How can I tell if something is organic according to labeling in the grocery store?
Packaged foods containing organic ingredients are labeled according to how much of the finished product is actually organic. • All of the ingredients in the product must be organic if it is labeled 100 percent organic. • In order to be labeled as “organic cereal,” 95 to 100 percent of the ingredients in the product must be organic. • To put a “partial organic” claim on the front of a cereal package, at least 70 percent of the ingredients must be organic. • Companies are allowed to list any individual organic ingredients on the ingredient list on the side of the package, but they are not allowed to use the word “organic” on the front of the package. For more information on organic foods, organic standards, and labeling of organic products, visit the USDA National Organic Program Web site at: http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/Consumers/brochure.html (Eat Right Montana is a coalition promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. Sponsors are the American Heart Association, Blue Cross Blue Shi
