Organic Advocates Voice Concern for ‘Natural’ Food

An organics watchdog group's criticism of a cereal company that describes its products as "all natural" is the latest in the debate about whether the term is being used to confuse consumers or simply give them more information.An organics watchdog...

March 7, 2011 | Source: Bloomberg Businessweek | by Michael J. Crumb

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An organics watchdog group’s criticism of a cereal company that describes its products as “all natural” is the latest in the debate about whether the term is being used to confuse consumers or simply give them more information.

The Wisconsin-based Cornucopia Institute recently filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission against Hearthside Food Solutions, makers of Peace Cereal. It claims the Eugene, Ore.-based company promotes its cereals as being made with pesticide free ingredients when they’re not.

Cornucopia and others argue it’s an example of the way some food manufacturers try to attract customers who may think buying natural means they’re buying organic. The organization was especially critical of Hearthside because the company previously sold organic cereal before switching to conventional ingredients.

“The sleight-of-hand of Peace Cereal, switching from organic to conventional ingredients, in a stealth-like manner, needs to be exposed.” said Mark Kastel, co-founder of Cornucopia.