(I checked out archives to see if anyone has posted anything about
eco-terra since I've been gone, but I didn't see anything. If there has
already been discussion and I missed it, I apologize.)
I'm curious to know (a) if anyone has any more background information on
this company, and (b) is this called "slander" or "libel"? (I always get
them mixed up...)
Highlights from the webpage, http://www.eco-terra.com, include:
Who We Are:
Eco Terra is a natural food company that cares for your health and the
health of the environment. We believe that good health begins with
naturally healthy food.
Eco-Terra is marketing vegetables, fruits, breads, grains, and meats in
two supermarket chains, Big Y and Giant Eagle.
Questions and Answers
Question: Does Eco Terra have a certification procedure?
Answer: No, Eco Terra is built around an evolving farm environmental
management system we started with growers who were considered "Good
Stewards of the Environment" by their peers. Then we interviewed them,
reviewed their farming practices and determined if they would qualify as
farmers who are building ecological and biological practices that enrich
the soil, protect the groundwater, reduce or eliminate pesticides and ag
chemicals. Ultimately these are growers growing superior quality products
with natural farming methods that are good for the earth.
Their certification is their picture on the package, their signature on
the package and their commitment to environmental practices and wholesome
food.
Question: How is Eco Terra different than organic?
Answer: Organic certification is primarily focused on the chemical inputs
used in production. These inputs are governed by the Organic Food Product
Act. Its role is to judge whether products can qualify under a set of
rules and procedures.
While organic is focused on chemical inputs Eco Terra is focused on the
entire farming and food system. Eco Terra is not only concerned with
reducing pesticide use but our goals include healthier soil, cleaner
groundwater and compostable packaging. Ultimately these Eco Terra growing
practices will lead to healthier food for people and the planet.
Sounds good; unfortunately, organic certification (and organic growing in
general) is all about focusing on the entire farming and food system. But
with enough money behind an ad campaign, these folks could confuse a lot
of consumers.
Anyone heard of them before? Responses?
Rob
*****************
T. Robert Fetter
Research Assistant
Dept. of Resource Economics
Draper Hall
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003
phone 413-545-5716
fax 413-545-5853
trf@student.umass.edu
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