Del Mar, CA (July 16, 2002) – The Food Consulting Company, provider of labeling services to the food industry, announces a new service to label organic foods for compliance to the National Organic Program (NOP) rules that are effective on October 21, 2002. The services are described and can be accessed on the company website – www.foodlabels.com.

Foods identified as organic on food labels, marketing materials, or at point-of-purchase must be in compliance with the rules. Developed under authority of the United States Department of Agriculture, the rules are complex and cover production and handling as well as labeling.

Among the complexities, the organic rules define four categories of labeling:

▪ 100 Percent Organic – must contain only organic ingredients

▪  Organic – must contain at least 95% organic ingredients

▪  Made with Organic Ingredients – must contain at least 70%
   organic ingredients

▪  Processed products with less than 70% organic ingredients may
   identify the specific ingredients that are organically produced on
   the ingredient statement but may not use the term "organic" on
   the front of the package.

The USDA Organic seal may be used on products that are 100 percent organic or that contain at least 95% organic ingredients, but not the other two product categories.

Karen Duester, president of The Food Consulting Company advises organic food labelers to read the entire NOP rules at http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/nop2000/nop2/finalrulepages/finalrulemap.htm. “After that, “ Duester says, “we can help organic food companies accurately complete the labeling process.”

The Food Consulting Company, based in Del Mar, CA, is the largest out-source provider assisting food companies in meeting FDA and USDA labeling requirements. The company offers a full range of food labeling services including product analysis, nutrition facts panels, ingredient statements, full compliance packages, shelf life evaluations, final label reviews, and INTOUCH, a free monthly email newsletter that keeps food companies informed on government action affecting food labels. Duester can be reached through the company web site: http://www.foodlabels.com, or by calling 800-793-2844.

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© Food Consulting Company, 2002.