Sure, that food has the government’s organic label. But that doesn’t mean it was made without man-made chemicals.

By Peter Whoriskey April 28

You might think the USDA "organic" label is reserved for foods produced without any man-made chemicals. But under government rules, "organic" food may be grown or processed with the aid of scores of synthetic substances, as long as those chemicals have been deemed essential.  Exactly which chemicals should be allowed?

This week, in a process that is largely invisible to consumers but that has become a semi-annual ritual of controversy within the world of organic politics, a committee called the National Organic Standards Board is selecting those synthetic substances that organic farmers and processors may use.  For a movement largely built around skepticism toward synthetic pesticides and additives, the task of choosing the exceptions can be particularly delicate.  The 15-member board, composed of farmers, processors and other organic experts selected by the USDA, often finds itself balancing the ideal of chemical-free food against the practical requirements of farming......To Read More......