The Organic Advantage

The Organic Advantage Ed 97 - Special Edition

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 03:01:00 GMT

SPECIAL EDITION
Edition 97, Wednesday 6th February, 2008

SPECIAL UPDATE: GE Canola and the organic sector

*NSW & Victoria to allow GE canola � what are the implications?
*BFA Subcommittee calls for input
*Canadian Farmers Tour Underway

What are the implications of GE canola release in 2008?

An expanding organic industry will face a new round of GM related hurdles on the back of last year�s green light on GM canola production from NSW and Victorian Governments.

Despite the efforts of the many groups around Australia opposing the release of GE canola, including the BFA which commissioned a major submission into the impacts and concerns about GE canola release, the State Governments decided in favour of the GE industry. In Victoria the advisory panel reported that consumers can access GE free food via organic foods and recommended that the State Government increase support for the organic sector. This is little comfort given the immediate impacts this year that will flow through to the organic sector if GE canola is grown.

For the first time the processing sector that uses organic grains from domestic sources will have to be very careful to ensure that product has not been contaminated in the supply chain that will handle GE, conventional and organic grains. The increased cost of testing, auditing and verification borne by organic processing companies will be a significant issue. In subsequent years, if GE canola is grown, we can expect farm to farm contamination through cross fertilisation, machinery use and transport systems used by the supply chain. Organic farmers will have to be particularly careful about the use of contractors who bring machinery on to their properties.

Victoria and NSW Governments have said that the normal commercial contracts that exist in the grains industry will be the mechanism for the growing and handling of GE canola. This means the grower will be bound by a contract upon purchasing GE seeds and will also be bound by the contract signed upon delivery of grain.

We have not seen any details about the GE seed purchase contracts but based upon overseas experience they will require the farmer to assume liability for the use of the GE seed. We doubt whether this contract will impose any requirements re buffer zones, notification to neighbours or contractors who come on to their properties. The State Governments have confirmed they will not be tracking or making public the locations of GE canola crops. This means that it will be difficult if not impossible for grain growers concerned about GE contamination to know if they are at risk from nearby GE canola crops.

With regard to the delivery contract, the grower will be required to declare if the canola is GE and the variety. The supply chain will then have in place contractual obligations to segregate to a tolerance level of contamination of 0.9%. This may be sufficient for some conventional grains sold, but for organic and those that are intending to market products as GE free, this will not be acceptable. It is our view that the planting of GE canola will see significant costs and operational stress placed on the grains supply chain and in particular end purchasers of product if they require GE free status.

BFA GE Subcommittee Calls for Input

The BFA GE subcommittee is keen to hear from industry members your ideas about how the BFA should proceed to campaign against the planting of GE canola in Australia. We will be putting a strategy to the BFA board shortly including a plan to raise additional funds from the organic industry to enable us to increase the effectiveness of this campaign. Please send your ideas to gmo@bfa.com.au.

For media comment and enquiries contact Scott Kinnear on 0419 881 729.

Canadian Farmers Tour Underway - Canadian experience of Genetically Modified (GM) Canola

Australia is about to commit to growing genetically modified (GM) herbicide tolerant canola. This public forum is an important opportunity to talk directly with farmers from Canada, where GM canola has been grown commercially for more than a decade. Speakers will discuss issues such as segregation of non-GM and GM canola, liability concerns and the effect GM canola has had on Canadian markets.
Speakers:
Mr Terry Boehm, Vice President of the Canadian Farmers Union
Mr Arnold Taylor, Farmer of 25 years from the Saskatchewan province of Canada.

Victoria
Marong Hall Thursday 7th Feb 7pm
High St, Marong
Hosted by Network of Concerned Farmers (http://www.non-gm-farmers.com)
For more information contact Helen Chambers 03 5435 2216

Open Forum Melbourne � Friday 8th Feb
6-8pm
Main Meeting Room
60L Building
60 Leicester St
Carlton
Hosted by MAdGE (Mothers Against Genetic Engineering) and GeneEthics Network
For more information contact GeneEthics Network on 1300 133 868

South Australia
10-12 February
Public Forum - Sunday 10th
2pm
Rymill Hall
enter from Cameron St through McCorquindale Park
Penola
Hosted by Network of Concerned Farmers
For more information contact Jeffrey Carracher on 0353866261 or 0428 316 901

Western Australia
12-14 February
Open Breakfast Meeting � Wednesday 13th
7.30-9.30am
CityFarm
East Perth
Hosted by Organic Growers Assoc WA
For more information contact Tracey Eaton on 0402 137 376

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The Organic Advantage Ed 96

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:05:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Friday 25 January 2007 - Edition 96
INDUSTRY:	UK Soil Association nanotechnology stance welcomed for organic
AGRIBUSINESS:	Australian organic exports to climb on the back of cloned meat
ENVIRONMENT:	Biofuels not the long-term solution
HEALTH:	7 top anti-cancer tips: WCRF
GOOD TASTE:	Recipe: Osso Bucco

Note: Don't miss out on the essential read at the end of this newsletter to complete your organic advantage!
Note: If you have trouble reading this newsletter, please view it by clicking on the following link or copying and pasting it into your web browser http://news.bfa.com.au/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?flavor=archive;list=advantage

INDUSTRY NEWS: UK Soil Association nanotechnology stance welcomed for organic

The Soil Association, Britain�s largest organic certification body has announced that products will not be certified as 'organic' if they contain additives made by the rapidly burgeoning nanotechnology industry.

The ban will particularly affect sunscreens and cosmetics � one of the UK�s fastest growing organic sectors.

Health concerns have prompted the ban on products containing man-made 'nanoparticles' � super-fine particles with dimensions smaller than 125 nanometres (millionths of a millimetre).

Scientists fear nanoparticles could pass from cosmetics through the skin and the body�s internal membranes.

Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA) welcomes the move of its sister organization in the UK and indeed notes that BFA had moved to place an interim ban on nanotechnology back in mid 2007, pending further information on the issue.

The new technology has implications for a multitude of sectors, from food, to paints and industrial manufacturing.

Chairman of the Organic Standards Committee for BFA Dr Andrew Monk noted �the [Standards] Committee reviewed the nanotechnology issue some 6 months ago using the most recent evidence and information available to industry. It resolved unanimously to not permit such technologies in organic food products regulated in Australia under the BFA Group's organic Bud logo.

�The industry is a progressive, science based industry, however it is ultimately also fundamentally focused on its key stakeholder - the consumer - and ensuring that food products made available to them bearing a symbol such as the organic Bud confirms the best efforts are made, and the greatest precautions taken, in getting that food to their tables in a safe and natural way. It is simply too early in its development phase to give a technology such as nano a green light.� said Dr Monk.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Australian organic exports to climb on the back of cloned meat

Australian organic meat exporters say their business could be bolstered by the US Food and Drug Administration�s recent decision to approve the consumption of food from cloned animals and their offspring.

�The decision has re-ignited a focus on organic � sales of organic beef and dairy products from Australia could be boosted as consumers in the United States search for an alternative source of protein and dairy products,� says Ms Dalene Brook, Business Development Manager of OBE Beef, Australia�s largest organic beef co-operative.

Australia has the largest area of certified organic land in the world (approximately 11.8million hectares certified to international standards) due to vast areas of rangelands certified for organic cattle and fat land production.

�Australia has some of the highest standards of food safety and traceability in the world protecting its primary industry environment. Australia�s clean and green reputation is highly regarded and a valuable asset for exporters in markets worldwide,� says Ms. Brook.

In south-west Queensland, OBE runs 70,000 certified organic cattle on 7 million certified organic hectares of land, and is well positioned to accommodate overseas markets seeking high-grade beef produced to organic standards. They are among a number of successful livestock industry groups.

Certified organic is one of the few regulatory systems already in place to guarantee accountability of source in livestock, amid rising consumer concerns that any cloned meat introduced on market will not be labelled accordingly (meat from cloned animals would be identical to a natural source and impossible to identify).

Spokesperson for Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), Damon Whittock says that MLA will closely monitor the attitudes of consumers and export markets but that cloned meat was not likely to enter the Australian food chain in the near future.

�Cloned cattle do exist in Australia (there are less than 100), but they are incredibly expensive to produce and used for research purposes. They do not enter the food chain.

�Food Safety Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) will make the decisions on the safety of cloned beef� and consumer attitudes will ultimately determine whether it will be accepted and hence made commercially viable,� he said.

BFA spokesperson and Standards Committee Chair, Dr. Andrew Monk says cloned meat concerns are the latest in a series of proposed food modification techniques that stringent standards for certified organic production offer an alternative to. Reproductive hormones and cloning are prohibited under the Australian Organic Standard.

�In a world of food increasingly tampered with in competition for the greatest slice of the
agri-food market, certified organic is becoming a haven for those in search of naturally produced food,� he says.

�With no planned requirement that labels identify cloned animal foods, and with the exemption of labeling of many GM foods, as well as products utilizing nanotechnology, organic logos such as the Australian Certified Organic �Bud� will hold even greater importance for consumers who care about where their food comes from, and how it is produced.�

Dr. Monk says BFA does not reject the progressive benefits of technology but takes a precautionary approach in the interests of human health and safety, while being unrepentantly focused on consumer concerns and interests.

The BFA has a vision for the organic industry in Australia - to grow organic food sales to 10 per cent of the food market in Australia by 2020. Product traceability is one good reason to buy organic and assist the organic industry to achieve its goal. More information is available at http://www.bfa.com.au

ENVIRONMENT: Biofuels not the long-term solution

The announcement that EU energy ministers have agreed to increase the share of biofuels used in transport to 10% by 2020 has drawn criticism from The House of Commons Environmental Committee that are supported by UK organic group The Soil Association on the grounds bio-crops may be unsustainable and damaging to the environment.

In a recent press release The Soil Association stated it welcomed the committee's conclusions that any expansion of biofuel production may damage rather than benefit the environment. The committee said it recognised that some biofuels were sustainable and could be used to reduce emissions, but that current biofuel technology could result in damaging land use (including water pollution and loss of biodiversity) in the UK; and the loss of crucial rainforests round the world.

It said the government should concentrate on the use of sustainable biofuels, such as waste vegetable oil and other biofuel technologies with robust measures put in place to guard against environmental damage.

Robin Maynard, Campaigns Director said:
�The Committee�s report exposes the false green mantle masking the true costs of and vested interests behind the push for biofuels. The main crops proposed for producing biofuels, oil-seed rape and sugar-beet, are simply old commodity crops seeking to revive flagging markets.

�The biotech industry is trying to use biofuels to by-pass public hostility to GM crops.�

�If the EU and UK Governments are serious about enabling agriculture to play its part in addressing climate change, they should support, sustainable organic farming which uses less energy to produce our food and brings proven benefits to the environment.�

The (Australian) Climate Institute in its report Agricultural Alliance on Climate Change has said supply of biofuel in Australia is expected to exceed the Government�s target of 350 ML by 2010, and significant further expansion of domestic biofuel production in the medium term would be possible with step changes in production technologies, or specific policy action in addition to the introduction of emissions trading.

The report said realising the benefits of increased production and use of biofuel would require all stakeholders to be involved in developing practical pathways for commercialising biofuels that were environmentally sustainable and did not disrupt food and fibre production; and would take a significant increase in research and development into prospective second generation biofuels that were relevant to Australia.

In a speech at the Energy Biotechnology Frontier Symposium last November, Professor John Manners from the CSIRO Plant Industry said there are currently three potential models of biofuel production:

1) Where the same feedstock can be used for either food or biofuel production interchangeably (eg ethanol production from sugarcane and corn in Brazil and the USA/ the production of biodiesel from vegetable oils in Europe. This model has raised the food versus fuel debate and is considered by many to be unsustainable.)

2) Where a biofuel is produced from a waste co-product of food production (Eg The production of ethanol from corn stover residues and the fibrous bagasse that remains after juice extraction from sugarcane. These are financially attractive renewable feedstocks that could be quickly adopted industries, but have a high expense of fermentation of residues.)

3) Where marginal land that is not highly suited to food production is used to produce hardy non-food crops that act as dedicated feedstocks for biofuels. (Examples of these under discussion are the grass Miscanthus as a feedstock for ethanol and the shrub Jatropha as a source of oil for biodiesel, but these will require the establishment of totally new production and processing industries. Sugarcane has many qualities that make it attractive as a feedstock for biofuel production.)

Data Link Soil Association Press Release: http://www.soilassociation.org/web/sa/saweb.nsf/
848d689047cb466780256a6b00298980/775949301b9f1311802573d70048d60f!OpenDocument

Data Link Climate Institute Agricultural Alliance on Climate Change Report http://www.climateinstitute.org.au//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=97&Itemid=41

Data Link speech Professor John Manners at Energy Biotechnology Frontier Symposium: http://www.csiro.au/files/files/phb6.pdf

HEALTH: 7 top anti-cancer tips: WCRF

By Shane Heaton, BFA Nutritionist

A third of cancers are caused by diet and lack of exercise and could be prevented, according to a new report from the World Cancer Research Fund that took 200 scientists 5 years to produce. They reviewed 7,000 studies on causes of cancer and have now published the most authoritative overview of the role that food, drink, obesity and exercise play in causing cancer. So here�s their top 7 tips for a healthier life, free of cancer, followed by two more from me at the end:

1. Avoid being overweight. Excess body fat was found to trigger various cancers and a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or less should be your goal. To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. For example 80kgs divided by 1.8 meters squared = 24.7. Over 25 is overweight, and over 30 is obese. Under 18.5 is considered unhealthy also.

2. To keep that weight off, the next tip is an obvious one: Exercise regularly. Thirty minutes of vigorous exercise daily, or 60 minutes of moderate exercise. If like me you know you should but don�t make the time � it's time to start.

3. Still on the theme of avoiding excess weight, the third tip is to avoid energy dense foods rich in fat and sugar. Obvious culprits are fried foods, fast food, and sugary soft drinks.

4. So on a more positive note, what should you eat? Lots of fruits and vegetables. At least 5 portions a day, though nine is better. Nutritionists actually used to recommend 9 portions of fruit and veg a day, and the advice only changed to 5 to give people eating very little fruit and veg a more realistic target! I once asked Craig Sams what he thought of the 5-a-day campaign and he replied, 'I'm not halving my fruit and veg intake for anyone!' In addition to fruits and vegetables the WCRF recommend eating cereals, grains or pulses with every meal.

5. Next is a controversial tip that was all over the media when this report was first released. Eat less red meat, and don't eat preserved meat like ham and bacon at all. Too much red meat was found to raise the risk of various cancers, and regular consumption of meats preserved with sodium nitrite, like ham and bacon, were found to raise the risk of cancer by around 10 per cent. See my additional tip 9 below for an important caveat to this advice.

6. Don't drink too much alcohol. The WCF panel recommended women should have no more than one drink a day, and men no more than two.

7. Reduce your salt intake to no more than 6 grams a day. Salt's been known to raise your blood pressure for years, but excessive consumption of salt or salty foods has now also been linked to a greater cancer risk.

So they're the WCRF�s top 7 tips for avoiding cancer, but there are at least two more I think really should be pointed out�

8. If you smoke, quit. According to the WCRF, the seven tips above �could play almost as big a role as stopping smoking in preserving us from disease.� So you can see how significant a difference stopping smoking can make � a bigger difference than the next 7 anti-cancer tips combined! If you don�t smoke, it may be a revelation to you that not exercising or eating healthily is almost as bad as smoking, so a good incentive to follow these seven tips, huh?

9. And finally, a capstone tip that the WCRF overlooked. Go organic.
Occupational and environmental exposures to pesticides have been repeatedly linked to various cancers, and dietary exposures are an unnecessary burden on your body. So yes, eat more fruit and veg as in tip number 4 above, but make them organic. You�ll feel better about eating them and probably find it easier to eat more fruit and veg because of it. Furthermore, the advice in tip 5 above needs one important caveat: If you enjoy red meat, ham and bacon, enjoy them in moderation by making them organic. Organic red meat actually contains more of various substances known to be cancer-protective, and organic ham and bacon aren�t preserved with sodium nitrite � the main risk factor leading to the WCRF advice to avoid them completely.

GOOD TASTE: Recipe: Osso Bucco

Recipe compliments of Dandaragan Beef, www.dandaraganorganicbeef.com.au
Osso Bucco ingredients:
6 oss bucco steaks
plain flour
2 tblspns butter
2 tblspns oil
� cup chopped celery
� cup chopped carrots
� cup sliced onion
4 tblspns tomato paste
1 heaped tblspn brown sugar
1 cup dry sherry
� cut water
salt & pepper to taste
finely chopped parsley
Dust meat with flour. Heat butter and oil in large frypan and fry eat until browned on both sides. Remove to large flat casserole or baking dish. Add the vegetables to frypan and fry lightly. Add tomato paste, sugar, sherry, water, salt and pepper and bring to the boil. Pour over meat, cover with lid or foil. Cook in 160�C oven until tender, about 2� hours. Sprinkle with parsley.

Serves 6
This is a tasty economical dish. It can be served with either rice or noodles and green vegetables.

A last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
Morris and his wife went to the state fair every year. Each year, Morris would say: �I�d love a ride in that helicopter.�
Each year Esther would reply: �I know Morris, but that helicopter ride is $50. $50 is $50.
One year Morris said: Esther, I am 85. If I don�t ride that helicopter now, I might never get another chance!
Esther said: � I know Morris, but $50 is $50!�
The pilot overheard the couple. He said: �Folks, I�ll make you a deal. I�ll take both of you for a ride. If you can stay quiet for the whole ride and not say one word, I won�t charge you, but if you say one word, it�s $50! Morris and Esther agreed and up they went.
The pilot did all kinds of fancy aerial acrobatics but not a word was heard.
When they landed the pilot turned to Morris and said: �By golly, I�m impressed, I gave you everything I had, and not one word, I�m impressed!�
Morris replied: �Well, I was going to say something when Esther fell out, but $50 is $50!�

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The Organic Advantage Ed 95

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 21:40:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Monday 9 January 2008 - Edition 95
INDUSTRY:	BioFach international fare - Stuffed, pitted, red or sparkling?
AGRIBUSINESS:	Incentives increase for long-term viability farming
ENVIRONMENT:	Packaging - keeping it green from paddock to plate
HEALTH:	NZ organic soft drink producer confronts cola superpowers
GOOD TASTE:	Recipe: Chicken with chilli and lemon

INDUSTRY NEWS: BioFach international fare � Stuffed, pitted, red or sparkling?

Following continued world-wide growth of the organic industry, the world's largest international organic trade fair BioFach is preparing for yet another year of expansion of its exhibition next month in Germany on 21 - 24 February 08.

The exhibition's growth reflects the rapid development of the international organic industry with organic marketing structures particularly well developed in countries like the USA, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria and Great Britain.

Strong demand for organic in heavily populated countries like Germany and the USA is resulting in an increase of conversion to organic agriculture in those countries with a focus on agricultural enterprise. More than 31 million ha of agricultural land are currently certified organic and another 62 million ha are recognized for the collection of products from the wild worldwide. (Helga Willer, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Switzerland)

London corporate consultant Organic Monitor says that worldwide spending on organic food in 2007 will top the 40 billion US dollar mark for the first time. Although most of the world�s regions report high growth rates, the largest growth in terms of turnover can be observed in North America and Europe. Organic Monitor predicts that the 60 billion US dollar mark will be reached for worldwide sales in 2010.

New in store at this years' BioFach, organisers have announced is the arrival of the olive-focused Consumers Choice Award. Over 60 exhibitors from 10 countries showcased olive oil last year, and BioFach says there is an increasing amount of organic oil brands on market. The event will feature an Olive Oil Bar for the seventh year in a row, and participants will put dozens of organic olive oil to the taste test.

Organic wine will also be receiving special treatment. For the first time, BioFach will feature a new day-lit hall devoted solely to the international display of organic labels. There were 300 organic wine exhibitors from 13 countries in a record setting 2007, and the competition is expected to increase by a robust 20% in 2008.

Australian Certified Organic in conjunction with BioGro New Zealand will host an Australia/ New Zealand stand at BioFach Germany 21 � 24 February 2008. To register your organic product for display at the world�s premier organic event, contact the BFA office on (07) 3350 5716 or email events@bfa.com.au. Companies must be quick as places are filling fast.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Incentives increase for long-term viability farming

Organic farmers are one step ahead as the push to tend land for long-term viability intensifies.

An announcement from Primary Industries Minister Tony Burke is the latest introduction to a growing number of schemes that could see farmers rewarded for protective land stewardship.

Mr. Burke last week stated the government may pay incentives to farmers on marginal or unviable properties who are prepared to modify their farming practises for sustainability; rather than solely drought relief. Mr Burke said climate change was a challenge but could also present opportunities, describing a number of techniques for re-building agricultural land that are more commonly utilised in organic systems.

�Some of the different techniques are moving away from ploughing, and what that has done both for retention of water and for reducing carbon emissions from the soil can create some really significant opportunities,� Mr. Burke said.

And pre-Christmas strengthened support from the Federal Government for a 20% carbon emission reduction target by 2020 could also profit sustainable farmers, according to a CSIRO report commissioned by The Climate Institute (and Agricultural Alliance on Climate Change).

The report stated if higher carbon prices take hold, and there is policy support for renewable energy, rural Australians stand to become valuable service providers in three areas of a low carbon future:
- Providing clean energy and electricity
- Mobilising agricultural mitigation and greenhouse gas offsets
- Supporting environmental stewardship on private land

Nicolette Boele, Director of strategic projects for The Climate Institute says now is the time for smart farmers to start filtering through strategic future possibilities.

�The changing climate makes the business of farming even more risky and unpredictable. Targeted government policy for ecosystem services could give savvy farmers on marginal agricultural land a new source of income - and help build land resilience� she says.

The report found renewable energy offered potentially major financial and other benefits to landholders and rural communities with estimates of potential wind royalties of up to $150 million a year, or more.

Land stewardship, which is currently being trialled by the government, is another area of opportunity, where land owners could be paid for their conservation efforts.

However The Climate Institute says this is subject to significant expansion of the stewardship scheme.

�Essentially the government would have to fund it (land stewardship)� said Ms. Boele.

�The indication is that they�re very interested (in backing sustainability) but we�re waiting for a solid sign of which direction they will go in.�

Mike Gooey, Executive Director of Trust for Nature has witnessed firsthand the merging of profit and land protection, and the rise of what he calls the �the eco-speculator.�

Trust for Nature, based in Victoria, aims to extend the state�s conservation areas by focusing on privately owned land. The organisation buys high conservation value land (for example, land that harbours a high proportion of endangered species), apply a conservation covenant to it (meaning it can no longer be used for development purposes in the future) and on-sells the protected result to conservation orientated owners. Many land-owners also seek to protect their land using Trust for Nature conservation covenants.

�We can�t keep up with demand for covenanting properties,� says Mr. Gooey.

�There are some very interesting incentives for conservation. This includes understanding �lost income opportunity�. With Trust for Nature conservation covenants the notional loss of value to the land can be assessed by the Australian Tax Office as an income tax deduction.�

That means when you choose to protect your land, there is potential to get back in tax what you might have received from sale of your land if you�d let it be developed.

Mr. Gooey says there are also a lot of questions around gross margins for farmers of the future to be asking.

�For example, can I add an extra �X� amount of dollars per hectare for my conservation efforts?� he says.

�Stewardship payments are happening in some areas. In Victoria there are a few tender programs � one, for example, where land owners are being paid to manage a Stringy Bark habitat for Red-tailed Black Cockatoos and another in the NSW Lachlan area involving Box Gum grassy woodlands.�

�Many farmers and agriculturists haven�t always seen the benefits, but I think that�s changing.�

Trust for Nature - http://www.trustfornature.org.au/
The Climate Institute - http://www.climateinstitute.org.au/

ENVIRONMENT: Packaging - Keeping it green from paddock to plate

In the last decade the environmentally friendly packaging industry has seen new improved production technology in materials which have become comparatively durable, functional and affordable, without leaving behind the remnants that petro plastics do.

Biodegradable and compostable packaging is a market that offers significant opportunity for organic producers and processors who want to extend the eco-awareness inherent in organic food one step further � however, the benefits should be analysed carefully against potential market pitfalls.

Richard Fine is CEO of Australian packaging supplier BioPak, a producer of packaging products which are compostable, biodegradable and derived from annually renewable resources.

�The market for these bio based materials is expanding due to the increased cost of oil based plastics and government legislation that aims to reduce waste,� he comments.

�The organic sector is currently the primary source of our sales to large retailers, who are essential to the growth of the industry. For example, we supply Coles with biodegradable trays & film for their fresh organic produce.�

Mr Fine admits there is still some work ahead in developing greener packaging for it to more competitively meet market demands on performance and cost.

�The market wants to protect the environment, but not at any cost. The next most important factor is that packaging be beneficial, safe and healthy thoughout its life cycle. Biodegradable packaging is a relatively new industry when compared to petro plastics and does have limitations that are undergoing continual research and development," he says.

�Although the price of some of our products have come down by as much as 40% in the last year, most remain about 2 to 3 times higher than the cost of regular packaging materials. With more manufacturers gearing up to meet demand and the ever increasing cost of petro plastics, it is not too far off that price will no longer be a factor in limiting the use of biopolymers.�

Dr Andrew Monk, Organic Standards Chair of the Biological Farmers of Australia comments on what organic standards require and what the future holds for packaging.

�BFA's member owned Australian Organic Standard like all key international standards around the world has a core principle of reduction of environmental impact and recycling and reusing wherever feasible," says Dr Monk.

"BFA as the leader in standards setting and regulation of organics in Australasia has an equal focus on maintaining a rigorous standard and integrity in organics including packaging, while also ensuring that our industry can deliver on consumer expectations on a sustainable basis.

"We always welcome, encourage and in future will be making mandatory, leading packaging solutions such as biodegradable and compostable packaging that delivers reduction of organics' environmental footprint" he says.

HEALTH: NZ organic soft drink producer confronts cola superpowers

NZ Soil & Health Association:

The Soil & Health Association of NZ is impressed with the Phoenix Organics �Think Before You Drink� anti-aspartame campaign, which reveals the dubious merits of the artificial sweetener on every bottle.

"Having 20,000 bottles of Phoenix Organic Cola with labels highlighting concerns with aspartame, is a great counter to Coca-Cola�s �Make Every Drop Matter� pro-aspartame campaign,� said Soil & Health spokesperson Steffan Browning.

�Soil & Health wants Diet Coke out of all schools in 2008 as a step towards withdrawing aspartame out of all New Zealand food and drinks, and the certified organic Phoenix drinks show there are wholesome alternatives.�

�The New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) continues to claim that aspartame is one of the most studied substances in the world, yet conveniently brushes aside the fact that while all industry-funded studies do not show a problem, the overwhelming majority of independent studies do.�

�Ditching Diet Coke, enjoying organic juices and getting genuine independent research is a great new resolution for New Zealand consumers.�

To read the full press release and related news visit www.organicnz.org/.

Notes:
Aspartame (951, Equal, Nutrasweet) is an artificial sweetener found in over 6000 products including diet drinks, sugar free products, dietary supplements, sports drinks and medications.
Aspartame has been linked to many health symptoms, including those expressed as ADHD, anxiety, depression, irritability, confusion, memory loss, insomnia, dizziness, migraines, cramps, abdominal pain, numbness or tingling of extremities, rashes, chronic fatigue, and sight and personality changes. Organic standards worldwide do not allow Aspartame in certified organic foods and drinks.

GOOD TASTE: Recipe: Chicken with chilli and lemon

Gourmet Organic Herbs (www.gourmet-organics.com.au):

4 chicken breast
2 GOH Whole Chillies (finely chopped)
1 tsp GOH Oregano
1 tsp GOH Marjoram
1 lemon
100ml olive oil
salt and pepper

To make the marinade; peel the lemon, place in a mortar & pestle and crush with the dry ingredients (Whole Chillies, Marjoram, Oregano, salt & pepper) and oil. Apply this mixture to the chicken and refrigerate for 24 hours. The chicken is best cooked on a skillet for 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through (don't worry if there is some charring as this works well with the marinade flavour). Serve with green salad and steamed new potatoes.

A last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
On summer vacation, Josie and her son, James, went to visit Josie's Uncle Jon who owned a nice farm. While there, Uncle Jon was helping one of his cows give birth, when he noticed his four-year-old Great Nephew, James, standing at the fence, wide-eyed and soaking in the whole event.

Uncle Jon thought to himself: "Great, now I'm gonna have to explain the 'birds and bees' to him. Well, no need to jump the gun. I'll just wait and see if he has any questions, and I'll just answer them as best I can."

After Uncle Jon finished helping the cow with her birthing, he walked over to James and asked him: "Do you have any questions about what you seen here tonight?"

"Just one," the little boy whispered, eyes still wide with wonder. "How fast was that calf going when he hit the cow?"

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The Organic Advantage Ed 94

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 02:00:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Friday 21 December 2007 - Edition 94
INDUSTRY:	Capitalising on growing Asian export markets
AGRIBUSINESS:	Competition for milk raises prices
ENVIRONMENT:	Greenhouse market opportunity
HEALTH:	World Cancer Research Report findings favour organic meat
GOOD TASTE:	Organic Christmas - where fare is fair and the taste is in tradition

We wish all of our Organic Advantage subscribers an enjoyable festive season and all the best in certified organics for 2008 from the Organic Advantage Editorial Team! Holly, Adam and Jaime.
Note: Don't miss out on the essential read at the end of this newsletter to complete your organic advantage!
Note: If you have trouble reading this newsletter, please view it by clicking on the following link or copying and pasting it into your web browser http://news.bfa.com.au/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?flavor=archive;list=advantage

INDUSTRY NEWS: Capitalising on growing Asian export markets

The demand for premium organic produce from Australia to the markets of Asia continues to surge. Networking groups, particularly in organics, provide an easy transition into these markets.

The Central Victorian Organic Network CVON is one group that continues to receive considerable interest from organic and conventional producers looking to tap into the Asian export market.

Craig Sobey, President of CVON says demand is outstripping supply. �Our target markets for export include Japan, China and many parts of southern Asia including India. The demand for premium organic produce in these parts is very high based on preliminary discussions by Austrade officials and business groups in these markets. The demand in the domestic market is reported to be growing at approximately 30% whilst production is only increasing at a rate of approximately 5 to 12%.� Craig says.

Craig believes that organic producers are desperately needed to not only fulfil the shortfall in supply, however to enable sustainable farming practices to continue to be able to capitalize on these demands.

�The domestic and export markets are estimated to be too large to satisfy for the foreseeable future; that is for at least 10 years�. Craig says.

�We need as many growers converting to certified organic farming as practical. This not only assists with supply of goods for domestic and export markets, by converting their land to certified organic farming they are improving water conservation, carbon capture, improving soil productivity and health, adding at least five percent to fenced off biodiversity zones and generally cleaning our rivers, streams and groundwater of harmful pesticides and fertilizers�, Craig says.

The producer network has just launched their brand �Puralia�, giving members a unique marketing tool through an umbrella brand. Craig believes this brand will enable producers to focus on providing quality product and take the work out of establishing connections in the market.

�Through our pooling of resources the network strengthens its base and allows us to scale up for engagement in markets that individuals would find difficult to supply.

Craig says that a change in the socioeconomic status of many Asian countries has been a factor in the increasing demand for good quality Australian beef.

�World food scientists are reporting a projection that traditional food prices may treble in the next five years due to the emergence of a global middle class centre in Asia. There is no longer such a big division from rich to poor. Now there is an estimated three hundred and fifty million persons that enjoy a middle class ($30 to $35,000 USD annual income), in India and China alone.�

�Even conventional farmers will be unable to fully satisfy the demands of these major developments let alone the producers of certified organic food�, Craig says.

�The high end of the market in Asia is usually educated and well traveled and well informed of their food choices and tends to be at least five to ten years ahead of Australia in adopting to new trends generated in the US and EEC. Now is the time to get our quality organic produce under their noses�, he says.

For information on CVON visit www.cvon.com.au.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Competition for milk raises prices

Consumers could soon be paying more for milk, as competition for milk supplies continues to increase.

A recent RABO Bank report claims that �a combination of strong demand conditions, structural reductions in supply and a series of shorter term supply shocks have seen international dairy prices more or less double in 12 months � driving the value of all dairy commodities to record levels�.

Barambah Organics, a Queensland based organic dairy producer and processor are capitalising on this demand. Their milking herd ranges from around 220 -250 head, predominantly Holstein-Fresians as well as some Jersey. The cows graze on 700 acres at Glenarbon, just outside of Inglewood, and 1,000 acres at Murgon QLD.

They process their milk from these properties and from a number of other A-grade certified organic farms from QLD and NSW directly through their manufacturing plant at Oxley, Brisbane.

Nationally, seasonal conditions, extended dry periods and shortage of and high priced feed supplements have made it hard for many to capitalise on the market. Jane Campbell and her husband Ian are directors of Barambah Organics. Jane believes that although, like many others they have had tough times, that the situation has not hindered Barambah�s success in the market, saying �There is such a shortage of milk at the moment that any factory producing excellent quality products will definitely thrive�, she says.

Milk supply in VIC and the Goulbourn Valley are particularly under pressure at the moment due to extended dry periods. With many dairy farmers battling the drought, and the strong export market, many processors are paying more to farmers to maintain supply. At present Victorian farmers are receiving $.60c Litre for certified organic milk.

Jane is grateful for the water supply they have been experiencing. Many dairy operators, particularly those supplied by the Southern Murray Darling Basin have been hit with extremely low water allocations and temporary water values that have priced them out of the market. �Our water allocation has not been affected yet, but we have heard of so many instances where allocations for irrigation have been reduced. Milk output is currently at 20 litres/cow and we have been able to hold that�, Jane says.

Global milk prices are being particularly influenced by the increase in milk consumption in China and other Asian nations. �The milk price is increasing with processors like United Dairies offering greater money than the 3 large manufacturers. Competition for milk suppliers is hotting up�, she says.

ENVIRONMENT: Greenhouse market opportunity

The Australian
December 16, 2007
MANAGED farmlands could help mop up much of the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, converting a hazard into a productive opportunity, some farmers and scientists say.

The scientists say Australia has the largest greenhouse gas emissions per capita in the world and carbon storage in soil has been largely overlooked as a solution for cutting the carbon footprint.
According to Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA), soil managed under organic and other regenerative farming systems could be a key tool to combating globally warming greenhouse gases.

"Carbon can be stored in the soil in the form of stable humus fractions, which can last for more than a thousand years - longer than most trees live,'' said soil health technical advisor and BFA spokesman Greg Paynter.

The Australian Society of Soil Science says about 1,500 gigatonnes of carbon is stored in soils worldwide, twice the amount that is stored in plants, and double the amount contained in the atmosphere. (One gigatonne is the equivalent of one billion tonnes)

The director of consulting group Organic Knowledge, Alasdair Smithson, said the potential benefits from soil carbon capture and storage had not received enough attention from policy makers.

"Well-managed soil is a highly effective method of storing carbon from the atmosphere,'' Mr Smithson said.

"It happens in real time - not like planting a tree, which can take 25 years to mature,'' he said.
Mr Smithson said carbon soil storage could provide farmers with additional income via carbon credit trading schemes.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has recently ratified the Kyoto Protocol and said a domestic carbon trading scheme would be in place by 2010.

"Its benefits (ratifying the protocol) could be significant in the near future, with developments in carbon trading programs meaning farmers could be paid for sequestering carbon as an additional farm income in the future,'' Mr Smithson said.

One such carbon facilitating program is the Australian Soil Carbon Accreditation Scheme, launched early this year in collaboration with 14 organisations. They include the Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food and mining giant Rio Tinto Ltd.

The scheme pays participants carbon credits for activities that reduce levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide by returning it to the soil. And some forecasters have suggested that carbon is poised to become the world's largest commodity market.

According to the World Bank, the value of the global carbon market tripled in 2006 - to $US30 billion ($A32.2 billion) from $US10 billion ($A11.4 billion) in 2005.

Ecologist and founder of Australian Soil Carbon Accreditation Scheme, Christine Jones, said that in a healthy ecosystem soils were a dynamic part of the carbon cycle.

"When people think carbon, they usually think trees, but in reality 82 per cent of carbon in the terrestrial biosphere is in the soil," she said.

"A one per cent increase in soil carbon in just 10 per cent of Australia's farmland could remove 10 years worth of Australia's CO2 emissions, while a four per cent increase in soil carbon could remove 40 years' worth."

Dr Jones said putting carbon back in soil required the adoption of regenerative farming and grazing methods that resulted in the formation of new topsoil.

Groundcover, which needed topsoil and included plants and crop stubbles, provides the channel between the atmosphere and the soil, providing the "way in" soil carbon, she said.

"Carbon can not be sequestered in soils if we continue with the same forms of land management that cause the carbon losses in the first place,'' she said.

"People cannot function without a skin, soil cannot function without cover."
Agriculture accounts for 30 per cent of the world's carbon emissions and 17 per cent of Australia's total carbon emissions, according to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics.

Source: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22932436-643,00.html

HEALTH: World Cancer Research Report findings favour organic meat

Findings from a co-joint report by the World Cancer Research fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research of a �convincing link between processed meats and colorectal cancer� is good news for Australian organic meat retailers.

The report states there is solid proof that high levels of processed meat containing nitrite and other preservatives increase the risk of cancer in the colon and rectum; two key organs of the digestive system.

Nitrites are barred from use in the processing of organic meat.

The findings come as no surprise to Steve Povey, meat processor certified by Australian Certified Organic, and owner of Brisbane butcher shop, �The Meat-Ting Place�.

He has specialised in the production of non-nitrite, preservative free and organically cured ham and bacon for the last ten years and says the benefits have brought in customers via doctor�s referrals.

�People come to us after seeing their doctors, who have associated high nitrite levels with a range of problems; gout, shingles, nervous rashes and so on,� says Mr. Povey.

�We receive customers from the age of eighteen and up wanting to decrease the chemical build up in their bodies. People consistently eating our meat say they feel better in themselves � and, some senior customers say it tastes like meat used to sixty years ago.�

Sodium Nitrite is added to conventional processed meat for preservation purposes and is the reason meat retains its recognisable red colour.

It is particularly high in foods such as ham, bacon, pastrami, salami, sausages and frankfurters; and fast foods.
The report found the consumption of red and processed meats to increase with income and particularly high in western countries.

Australia�s consumption of cured ham and bacon has almost doubled from 4.6kg to 8.7kg per person in the sixty years up to 1999, according to the last official records.

Organically cured meat means Australians can bring home the bacon, minus the carcinogens.

Link to World Cancer Research Fund Report �Food, Nutrition, Physical Activity and the Prevention of Cancer: a global perspective,�: http://www.dietandcancerreport.org/?p=ER

GOOD TASTE: Organic Christmas - where fare is fair and the taste is in tradition

Whether it�s the pudding recipe that has crossed generations or the meat the way your father prepared it, Christmas is a time to divert from the constant demands of modern living and rediscover the pleasure of old fashioned food preparation. This season, why not try it with organic produce?

The proof is in the organic pudding, according to certified organic meat processor Stephen Povey from The Meat-ing Place who specialises in preservative free and organically cured Christmas ham. �Our senior customers say it tastes like meat used to sixty years ago,� he says.

And organic turkey is renowned for providing a more tender feature of the Christmas lunch fare. �People say organic turkey is juicer than conventional,� says Matthew Jamieson, poultry producer from Sunforest in NSW. �Our birds take longer to raise, and they�re raised outdoors on very high standard chemical-free feed and that makes a big difference.�

Preparing organic Christmas meals and treats at home, or putting organic chocolates in the Christmas stocking is also one way to keep the kids hyper-activity levels at a low and possibly avoid some of the after-effects of indulging in overly processed foods.

Natural colours and flavours, no harmful additives or preservatives, the prohibition of hydrogenated or trans-fats and fruit inclusions in organic processing all contribute to a healthier holiday nibble.

On the alcoholic front, certified organic wine producer Scott Wright says organic wine is perfect for people with allergies who want the Christmas cheer to last.

�Certainly lower levels of sulphur dioxides, if people have allergies, lead to lower levels of headaches. And of course there is the value in knowing the wines are produced without synthetic chemicals in an ethical way.�

To extend organic past the dining room this season, there are plenty of options:
� For the tree, organic food or cosmetics hampers provide an environmentally friendly option. Hampers can contain everything from fresh organic seasonal fruits to organic chocolate, wine, nuts, jams, sauces, soap and shampoo. Make your own from your local organic market or shop online to save time.
� For Santa sacks try 100% certified organic cotton garments and sleep wear that won�t irritate the skin. Try visiting www.organicembrace.com.au.
� Take an organic break! Organic retreats are tipped to be the next tourism niche.
� Rediscover the wonder of outdoors and show the kids the value of food by taking time over the holidays to try your own organic veggie patch. There are plenty of organic garden inputs available in nurseries for natural growing and kids love learning the magic of garden life.

When purchasing organic, shoppers should always look for a logo such as the recognisable BFA/ ACO "Bud" logo to be sure of the product�s organic integrity and the benefits of buying organic are 100% certified.

For further information on where to buy organic products and for answers to common questions about buying organic, visit www.bfa.com.au.

The BFA has a vision for the organic industry in Australia - to grow organic food sales to 10 per cent of the food market in Australia by 2020. For 20 good reasons to buy organic and assist the organic industry to achieve its goal visit www.bfa.com.au.

A last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
A young jackaroo from outback Queensland goes off to university, but halfway through the semester he foolishly has squandered all of his money.

He calls home. "Dad," he says, "you won't believe what modern education is developing. They actually have a program here in Brisbane that will teach our dog Ol' Blue how to talk."

"That's amazing!" his Dad says. "How do I get Ol' Blue in that program?"

"Just send him down here with $2,000," the young jackaroo says, "I'll get him in the course."

So his father sends the dog and $2,000.

About two-thirds through the semester, the money again runs out. The boy calls home. "So how's Ol' Blue doing, son?" his father wants to know.

"Awesome! Dad, he's talking up a storm. But you just won't believe this. They've had such good results with talking, they've begun to teach the animals how to read."

"Read?!" exclaims his father. "No kidding! How do we get Ol' Blue in that program?"

"Just send $4,500. I'll get him in the class."

The money promptly arrives. But our hero has a problem. At the end of the year, his father will find out the dog can neither talk nor read.

So he shoots the dog. When he arrives home at the end of the year, his father is all excited.

"Where's Ol' Blue? I just can't wait to talk with him, and see him read something!"

"Dad," the boy says, "I have some grim news. Yesterday morning, just before we left to drive home, Ol' Blue was in the living room, kicked back in the recliner, reading the Wall Street Journal. Then he suddenly turned to me and asked, 'So, is your daddy still messing around with that little redhead barmaid at the pub?'"

The father groans and whispers, "I hope you shot that bastard before he talks to your Mother!"

"I sure did, Dad!"

"That's my boy!"

The kid went on to be a successful lawyer.

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The Organic Advantage Ed 93 - Special Edition

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 22:23:00 GMT

SPECIAL EDITION
Edition 93, Thursday 22nd November, 2007

BREAKING NEWS: Organic industry at risk; Vic and NSW poised to release GE Canola

ORGANIC INDUSTRY AT RISK;

VICTORIA & NSW POISED TO RELEASE GE CANOLA

AN APPEAL FOR CONCERNS TO BE VOICED TO STATE GOVERNMENTS

Dear Organic Advantage subscriber,

Once again the organic industry is faced with the daunting task of protecting the integrity of its industry from the introduction and contamination of GE canola crops. At this present there is a distinct possibility that Victoria and NSW states may relax the present moratorium.

This would immediately put at risk of contamination both organic and non-GE conventional grain producers and processors. Increased costs for the organic sector as a result of this contamination would include testing, segregation, clean down of equipment etc.

Late pressure on both state governments, including from many backbenchers, appears to be having an affect. We ask if you would please call and email the Premier and Agriculture Minister in each state to voice your concerns for the organic sector and Australian markets in general.

The contact details are:
Premier of Victoria John Brumby
Tel 03 9651 5000, Email: john.brumby@parliament.vic.gov.au

Agriculture Minister of Victoria Joe Helper
Tel 03 9658 4670, Email: joe.helper@parliament.vic.gov.au

Premier of NSW Morris Iemma
Tel (02) 9228 5239, Email: thepremier@www.nsw.gov.au

Agriculture Minister of NSW Ian McDonald
Tel (02) 9228 3344, Email: macdonald.office@macdonald.minister.nsw.gov.au

Please also read the press release below from GE FREE AUSTRALIA.

GE FREE AUSTRALIA, PRESS RELEASE, 22 NOV 07

Coles joins food industry in speaking out against GE Food Crops

Supermarket giant Coles has joined industry leaders in speaking out against genetically engineered (GE) food, as the Victorian Government looks set to announce the lifting of their ban on the commercial growing of GE food crops.

When asked what Coles' position was, at a Parliamentary forum on Tuesday, Coles representative Chris Mara stated that, "Coles listens to our customers and over 90% do not want GM ingredients in their food and Coles whole private label range of
'Smart Buy', 'You'll Love Coles' and 'Coles Finest' exclude all GM ingredients in response to customer concerns."

Coles statements come hot on the heels of Goodman Fielder, Australia's largest food company, Tatiara Meats, Australia�s largest lamb exporter and 250 other food companies calling on the State Governments to extend their bans of GE Food crops.

Scott Kinnear from Biological Farmers of Australia said, �If GE crops are introduced in Australia, non-GE and organic farmers will have to bear the crippling costs of testing, segregation, supply chain management and will be held liable if they sell non-GE product that is contaminated.

�Australian farmers will lose valuable export markets and the country will lose its lucrative GE-free status forever. I urge the Government of Victoria and John Brumby to listen to its constituents by reconsidering its unpopular position and extend the ban.�

Greenpeace genetic engineering campaigner Louise Sales said, �It is blatantly clear that the food industry doesn�t want GE in their food supply chain and according to recent polls neither do the majority of consumers, farmers or our key export markets in Japan and Europe. Why is the Victorian government so determined to lift the bans? The only other stakeholder that appears to want GE food crops is the biotechnology industry which stands to make a fortune at everyone else's expense if this dangerous, unwanted technology is introduced.�

Gene Ethics Director Bob Phelps says, "Agribusiness has clearly not won the confidence of the rest of the food industry when it comes to GE crops. Until they have, the bans should stay."

State Governments introduced the moratoria on GE food crops in 2004 because of concerns within industry, the farming sector and regional communities about the impact of GE crops on markets. The Victorian government is set to make its decision to lift the ban based on the findings of a commissioned report by Sir Gus Nossal recently submitted to cabinet. However, the report which has not been released to the public, only investigates trade implications and does not examine health or environmental risks.

For further information:
Scott Kinnear Biological Farmers of Australia 0419 881 729
Louise Sales Greenpeace 0438 679 263
Bob Phelps Gene Ethics 0408 195 099

Also visit: www.gefreeaustralia.org

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The Organic Advantage Ed. 92

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 21:41:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Monday 12 November 2007 - Edition 92
INDUSTRY:	NOVEMBER FORUMS: Genetic Roulette - the Documented Health Risks of GE foods
AGRIBUSINESS:	2007 Nuffield organic scholars
ENVIRONMENT:	The UK Soil Association moves ahead with ban on air freight of organic foods
HEALTH:	NEW STUDY: Organic milk cuts eczema in children and boosts breast milk
GOOD TASTE:	Organic wine success in open class shows

INDUSTRY NEWS: Genetic Roulette � the Documented Health Risks of GE foods

Jeffrey Smith, international best selling author, will be launching the Australian edition of Genetic Roulette � the Documented Health Risks of GE foods during November at public forums across Australia. Jeffrey has worked with over thirty scientists for the past two years to document the known proven health risks of GE foods.

He has counselled world leaders from every continent about the health risks of GMOs and has influenced the first state laws regulating GMO's in the US.

Why now? State governments are currently poised to decide whether or not Australia goes down the GE path. Now is the time to find out exactly what you need to know about GE foods that others won't tell you.

Genetic Roulette will be for sale at the forums at the special price of $25, CASH ONLY (rrp $28.95). The book may also be purchased via the BFA website, BFA members receive a 20% discount.

See click here to download the flyer or visit www.gefreeaustralia.org.

Guest speakers include:
Perth:
Public debate including: Dr Ian Edwards, Julie Newman, Dr Judy Carmen, Dr David Topping, Bill Crabtree
Adelaide:
Dr Judy Carmen, Director Health and Environment Institute of Research
Hobart:
Tony Scherer, Farmer, Managing Director Frogmore Winery
Melbourne:
Bob Phelps, Director Gene Ethics
Sydney:
Dr Robert Warlow, Clinical Immunologist, Allergist, Immunopathologist, Medical Researcher, owner Peasants Feast � Sydney's only organic dinner restaurant

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: 2007 Nuffield organic scholars

Nuffield Australia's recent awards dinner for 2007 marked a new high for the program, with a total number of 16 scholarships awarded. This includes 4 new scholarships encompassing the grain, aquaculture, fruit and horticulture industries. Of the 16 2007 scholars, 2 will be devoting their studies to organic agriculture:

Apple and Pear Australia and Horticulture Australia Ltd Scholarship:
Jason Jarvis, from Donnybrook, WA, receives the 2007 scholarship supported by Apple and Pear Australia and Horticulture Australia Ltd.

In partnership with his parents, the third-generation farmer who is current chair of the WA Apple and Pear Council, manages an apple orchard, contract fruit packing operation, beef cattle breeding unit, and a pony stud and rading stables.

The family constantly works to improve the property's soil health and the nutritional quality of produce.

The aim of the study will be how to "maintain and improve quality and yield during the conversion to organic certification for fruit production."

AWB Landmark Scholarship:
Graham Finlayson from Brewarrina, NSW receives the 2007 scholarship supported by AWB Landmark.

Graham was born and bred in the semi-arid rangelands of the western division and now owns with his wife Cathy a certified organic livestock enterprise north of Brewarrina.

His passion is improving grazing management practices in the rangelands. It is through his focus on health of the landscape as well as diversifying into complementary enterprises such as tourism which has enabled the Finlaysons to survive seven years of drought.

Graham's study will be "natural resource management � specifically, the use of livestock in improving the diversity, health and regeneration of the semi-arid rangelands of Australia."

For further information visit http://www.nuffield.com.au/buletins/2007/2007%20Spring%20Nuffield%20News.pdf

ENVIRONMENT: The UK Soil Association moves ahead with ban on air freight of organic foods

The recent announcement by the UK�s Soil Association�s (SA) Standards Board for proposed changes to ban the air freight of organic produce under its standards, is a bold step by the UK�s leading certifier, towards organic food production taking greater responsibility in curbing climate change. The group�s focus on air freight is part of its broader ongoing work to assess and reduce the life cycle impact on the climate of all organic farming and food. (1)

At the same time the group recognises the negative effect this may have on the development of organic markets in low or lower-middle income countries currently responsible for 80% of air freighted organic produce to the UK. Air freighted goods will therefore be accepted under SA standards if they meet the SA�s own Ethical Trade standards or the Fairtrade Foundation�s standards. Meanwhile SA licensees are required to develop plans for reducing any remaining dependence on air freight.

The details of the proposal will be open to further consultation during 2008, and will begin to take effect from January 2009.

Although less than 1% of the total UK food miles, air freight is responsible for 11% of the CO2 emissions from UK food transport and can generate 177 times more greenhouse gas than shipping.

Anna Bradley, chair of the SA�s Standards Board said:
"It is neither sustainable nor responsible to encourage poorer farmers to be reliant on air freight, but we recognise that building alternative markets that offer the same social and economic benefits as organic exports will take time. Therefore, the Soil Association will be doing all it can to encourage farmers in developing countries to create and build organic markets that do not depend on air freight.

"We also want the public to have clear and meaningful information about both the environmental and social impact of air freighted organic food. That�s why The Soil Association is working with the Carbon Trust and the British Standards Institute to arrive at a reliable and comprehensive system of assessing the full carbon footprint of all food. The Standards Board will consider implementing carbon labelling within our standards for all organic goods - not just air freighted produce - when a good scheme is available."

BFA�s Standard�s Chair Dr Andrew Monk comments that the SA debate about the issue of �food miles� should be of key interest to Australian producers and consumers.

�The BFA�s Australian Organic Standard (AOS) is the main document, via ACO certification, used by those exporting to the UK and other countries. (2)

�Organic requirements under the AOS are aimed at reducing the overall environmental footprint - be that from transport, packaging or other production methods.�

Similar to SA Standards Dr Monk says �the AOS covers both organic and fair trade requirements, along with other environmental requirements to maintain organic certification, for operations in Australia and within the broader region, for example, coffee production in PNG."

Dr Monk says that in setting Australian standards the BFA has the challenge of ensuring ongoing access to markets for ACO clients, while ensuring practical requirements are maintained.

He says that while the drought has curbed Australian organic exports, the demand continues to grow for organic products, particularly into the EU and US, and Australia remains in an optimal position for supplying these markets being known for both its high quality organic foods and stringent organic regulatory regime.

References:
(1) see the Soil Association press release with references available at http://www.soilassociation.org/web/sa/saweb.nsf/printable_library/NT000275FA

(2) for a free download of the AOS, including fair trade requirements (section 7) and other requirements for organic production and marketing, see www.bfa.com.au.

HEALTH: New study: Organic milk cuts eczema in children and boosts breast milk

A newly published scientific study shows that the incidence of eczema in infants fed on organic dairy products, and whose mothers also consumed organic dairy products, is 36% lower than in children who consume conventional dairy products. [1] [2]

Whilst there is a significant body of evidence showing that organic food contains higher levels of beneficial nutrients than non-organic foods [3], this is the first example of a definite health impact (i.e. isolated from other potential beneficial factors) of organic food consumption being published in a peer reviewed journal.

Whilst the study confirms it is organic dairy consumption that protects against the development of eczema, the scientists could only hypothesise as to the mechanism which delivered this protection. Their hypothesis follows the established facts of increased levels of the beneficial conjugated linoleic acid isomers (CLA) [4] found in milk from organically managed cows. A separate recent study [5] confirms that higher levels of conjugated linoleic acids are not only found in cows� milk but also in the breast milk of women consuming organic milk. This therefore underpins the hypothesis that the higher levels of CLAs in the breast milk of organic milk drinking mothers are a key mechanism in reducing eczema, as well as the organic dairy diet of the infants themselves.

Shane Heaton, nutritionist for the Biological Farmers of Australia said:
�Given the strong evidence that organic has more beneficial nutrients, and the absence of harmful additives, common sense suggests that organic food is better for your health. It's good to see this starting to be confirmed by scientific research. These studies add to the body of evidence showing that organic food isn�t a luxury � it�s how food�s supposed to be."

Professor Carlo Leifert, at Newcastle University, leader of the EU's 80m euro Quality Low Input Food (QLIF) project, said:
"The Louis Bolk Institute together with medical schools in the Netherlands and the UK has published data which show that the composition differences between organic and conventional milk (as shown by the results from the QLIF project and other published studies) translate into higher levels of CLA in human breast milk and lower incidence eczema in infants. This is the first example of a definite health impact of organic food consumption being published in a peer reviewed journal."

To view the full press release and references click here or visit www.soilassociation.org, click on Information centre, Library, Press Releases 2007.

GOOD TASTE: Organic Wine Success in Open Class Shows

When asked what has been the backbone to the success of his vineyard, Barrie Corner states simply �we have always managed his vineyard organically as we wished to give our customers the best possible product�.

Barrie Corner is owner of Broombee Organic Orchard and Vineyard near Mudgee, NSW which was successful in winning awards at two recent open class wine shows.

The vineyard�s 2005 Shiraz/ Cabernet recently won Bronze among 352 entries at the Mudgee Wine Show 2007.

The 2005 Pinot Noir also won Bronze among 198 entries at the Dubbo Hot Climate Wine Show 2007.

The wines are certified organic through ACO, are low preservative and grown, made and bottled on the estate for total quality control.

The Corner family, in addition to the vineyard, run black Suffolk sheep (excellent for controlling weeds and fertilizing the vineyard during its dormant months), and Murray Grey cattle, as well as grow stone fruits and table and oil varieties of olives - also award winning gaining gold and silver in the regional Mudgee Show.

Mr Corner now looks forward to the launch of his latest project. �We are looking forward to releasing our Black Muscat Port and Cabernet Sauvignon Port in time for Christmas,� he says.

For further information visit www.broombeeorganicwines.com.au, phone 02 6373 1314 or email broombee@winsoft.net.au.

A last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
An out-of-towner drove his car into a ditch in a desolated area. Luckily, a local farmer came to help with his big strong horse named Buddy.

He hitched Buddy up to the car and yelled, "Pull, Nellie, pull." Buddy didn't move.

Then the farmer hollered, "Pull, Buster, pull." Buddy didn't respond.

Once more the farmer commanded, "Pull, Jennie, pull." Nothing.

Then the farmer nonchalantly said, "Pull, Buddy, pull." And the horse easily dragged the car out of the ditch.

The motorist was most appreciative and curious. He asked the farmer why he called his horse by the wrong name three times.

The farmer said, "Oh, Buddy is blind, and if he thought he was the only one pulling, he wouldn't even try!"

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The Organic Advantage Ed 91 - Special Edition

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 01:23:00 GMT

SPECIAL EDITION
Edition 91, Tuesday 30th October, 2007

BREAKING NEWS: OFFICIAL: Organic really is better

THE biggest study into organic food has found it is more nutritious than ordinary produce and may help lengthen people's lives.

The evidence from the $27million four-year European Union-funded project should end years of debate and is likely to overturn official advice that eating organic food is a lifestyle choice and that there is no clear evidence that it is �more nutritious than other food�.

The study will be peer reviewed and published over the next 12 months. But already one conclusion is clear: organically produced crops and dairy milk usually contain more �beneficial compounds� - such as vitamins and antioxidants believed to help to combat disease.

Nutritionist and spokesperson for Australia�s largest organic body, the Biological Farmers of Australia, Shane Heaton, welcomed the study, saying, �This adds to the growing body of evidence from around the world that organic produce not only contains less of the things you don�t need, but also more of the things you do need in your diet.�

�Of course, organic consumers have known this for years,� Heaton adds. �This latest research should help everyone else, including some of our leading official advisory bodies, to be better informed and catch up with the organic movement.�

The study found that organic fruit and vegetables contained between 20 and 40 per cent more antioxidants, which scientists believe can cut the risk of cancer and heart disease, Australia's biggest killers. They also had higher levels of vitamin C and beneficial minerals such as iron and zinc.

Carlo Leifert, co-ordinator of the EU-funded project, said the health benefits were so striking that moving to organic food was the equivalent of eating an extra portion of fruit and vegetables every day.

"If you have just 20 per cent more antioxidants in every portion of vegetables, then it's simply a question of maths - eating four portions of organic fruit and vegetables is the equivalent to eating five portions of traditional fruit and vegetables," he said.

Researchers grew fruit and vegetables and reared cattle on adjacent organic and non-organic sites on a 293ha farm at Newcastle University, plus other sites in Europe.

�Organic food isn�t a luxury,� says Heaton, �It�s how food is meant to be.�

Further details:
- The new study shows that organic milk has 60 to 80 per cent more nutrients in the summer than conventional milk, and 50 to 60 per cent more in the winter.
- Organic milk also has higher levels of vitamin E.
- Organic cheese can have up to twice as many nutrients than conventional varieties.
- Organic tomatoes, wheat, potatoes, cabbage, onions and wheat have 20 to 40 per cent more antioxidants than conventional fruit and vegetables.
- Organic spinach and cabbage have been found to have more minerals, including iron, copper and zinc.

Also visit:
- http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article2753546.ece
- http://www.soilassociation.org/web/sa/saweb.nsf/89d058cc4dbeb16d80256a73005a2866/536379ea38eaf4

ca802573830061ac90!OpenDocument

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The Organic Advantage Ed 90

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 20:25:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Thursday 25 October 2007 - Edition 90
INDUSTRY:	The BFA - Celebrating two decades of growth for organics
AGRIBUSINESS:	Online auction delivers premium price for cattle
ENVIRONMENT:	Japan says no to GMO
HEALTH:	Is the difference between organic and non-organic irrelevant?
GOOD TASTE:	No competition for Australian bio-dynamic wines

INDUSTRY NEWS: The BFA - Celebrating two decades of growth for organics

The Biological Farmers Australia (BFA) is proud to be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Marking the milestone of its beginnings in 1987 the BFA�s 20th Annual General Meeting will held followed by a celebratory Gala Dinner on Saturday 27th October.

Representative figures will join growers, members and others to reflect on the history of an industry which is enjoying unprecedented growth.

BFA Chairman, Mr. Doug Haas, says the organisation has evolved.

�What began as a group of farming families is now an able bodied group with two very distinct certifying bodies - Australian Certified Organic (ACO) and Organic Growers of Australia Certified Ltd (OGA) (Small Producer Program), representing in all some 3000 clients and members.�

�While having grown into Australia�s largest organic certifying body, it�s clear the BFA has not forgotten from where it began, with the ongoing and obvious intention of representing all. No better example of this is ensuring the OGA�s ongoing industry presence. In an industry first, the OGA program now provides a tailored certification option for the smaller grower.�

�We now have the funds, resources and strategic vision that will help us develop the industry as a whole, and that�s something we are proud of,� says Mr. Haas.

�We�ve seen organics become a commercial reality, with a lot of spirit.�

Approximately 70% of certified organic produce in the marketplace now carries the BFA Group�s renowned �Bud logo�.

�The Bud which assures purchases of integrity and quality was the creation of Rosemary Dunn (wife of Gavin Dunn, inaugural chairman of the BFA) some 20 years ago,� says Mr. Haas.

Other major achievements in 20 years include accreditation and equivalence with 6 different programs facilitating market access worldwide, a fast-growing Small Producer Program (the OGA), training and educational programs nationally and a long established PR department producing approximately 12 print publications per year, plus 26 electronic publications.

The BFA is honoured to welcome two prominent guest speakers to its Gala Dinner � Mr. David Crombie, President of the National Farmers Federation and Professor Robert Carter, research professor of geology at James Cook University.

Mr. Crombie was formerly head of Meat and Livestock Australia for eight years and has spent decades as an agricultural consultant, farmer and manager.

Professor Carter has thirty years experience as an environmental scientist across a diverse range of sectors.

Event Details: Saturday 26th October at The Sofitel, 249 Turbot St, Brisbane City
Annual General Meeting: 8:30am registration � mid afternoon
Gala Dinner: 6:30pm until late
For more information: ph. 07 3350 5716 ext 233 or email events@bfa.com.au.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: On-line auction delivers premium price for cattle

AuctionsPlus online auction provides an ideal facility to sell organic store cattle and sheep as the integrity of the cattle�s organic status is not threatened while allowing access to a broader market providing exposure to potential buyers nationally

This month ACO certified Cattle producer Nobbs Cattle Co received excellent results via the exposure and competition provided by AuctionsPlus online weekly Internet sale.

Allan and Brett Nobbs offered and sold 292 steers from their Fitzroy Vale property on the Queensland Central Coast east of Rockhampton.

Bidding resulted in 94 steers being sold to EU producer John Howard, Mountain View, Biloela, weighing 320 to 390 av 349kg for 168.6c.

Two B/Doubles were purchased by Capella graziers Roger and Carolyn Lee to restock their Organic property Caroa paying 176.4c for 100 Brahaman steers weighing 280 to 320 av 309kg and another line of 96 steers weighing 320 to 390 av 350kg paying 166.8c.

The final bid price was some 16c to 26c above the vendor�s reserve. Up against trends influencing prices paid for cattle including the current price of grain, the Australian dollar and the season, it was an unexpected but very positive result with in the vendors receiving a larger than expected gross premium.

To list cattle and for information contact:
Landmark QLD/NT Auction Plus State Co-ordinator � Colin Campbell (mob: 0429 068 810 email col.campbell@landmark.com.au), NSW/VIC Co-ordinator Bob Russ (mob:0419 276 851 email robert.russ@landmark.com.au), SA Co-ordinator Wayne Hall (mob: 0427 369 699 email wayne.hall@landmark.com.au) and WA Co-ordinator Chris Medcalf (mob: 0427 423 232).

Other web based resources available to the organic livestock sector include a Livestock E-Circular distributed on demand by the BFA and assisting with the facilitation of trade. The Circular is free to subscribe to via the website www.bfa.com.au. Organic livestock news, e.g. stock for sale or wanted, feed available and other information may be sent for publishing in to livestock-broadacre@bfa.com.au.

In addition, the BFA Classifieds website is assisting organic graziers and others find stock, farm inputs and products and can be found at http://news.bfa.com.au/classifieds/. The site is free to advertise in for BFA members or costs $66 for non-members.

ENVIRONMENT: Japan says no to GMO

farmonline, Australia
Thursday, 25 October 2007

THE pro-genetically modified organism (GMO) lobby has found an unlikely opponent in its bid to have the States' moratoria on genetically modified (GM) food crops lifted.

A delegation of Japanese consumers visited Australia as part of a publicity campaign designed to keep the various bans in place.

The No! GMO Campaign, an alliance of Japanese consumer and farmer groups representing 2.9 million Japanese consumers, have met with State Government officials in South Australia, Victoria and NSW.

The group was also in WA this week and met with State Agriculture Minister, Kim Chance, to put forward its concerns about the quality of food imported into Japan.

The group used the opportunity to express fears about GM food products, and presented Mr Chance with a petition signed by 155 Japanese organisations that represented the 2.9m Japanese consumers.

Campaign spokesman, Ryoko Shimizu, said the group's major concern was with food safety.

"We Japanese consumers are now standing at a critical crossroads in assuring our food safety," Mr Shimizu said.

"Australia is the only country that can supply GM-free canola to food-importing countries like Japan. If the moratoria are lifted it would damage the reputation of Australian crops in Japan and Japanese consumers would stop buying Australian crops."

Mr Chance hinted that the Japanese petition could yield influence on WA's moratorium review.

"We need to maintain the confidence of our consumers, and particularly those in Japan," he said.

"We will review the moratorium in WA and we will review it along proper guidelines, including both the science of the question and the position that our consumers take, here in Australia and internationally.

"But among those consumers this very strong statement by Japanese consumers certainly helps us in our decision making."

HEALTH: Is the difference between organic and non-organic irrelevant?

Recently in a mainstream newspaper a professor of human nutrition lent herself to an article which quite emphatically stated that 'organic (food) is no better.'

Following up with the professor and with the intention of knowing which research had led her to this conclusion, BFA Nutritionist Shane Heaton was posed with a second statement from the professor:

�Even if there were a difference, the difference is irrelevant. Fruit and vegetables provide an excess of vitamins and minerals and we should be encouraging everyone to eat more of them - we don't need to get them from more alternate sources that are hard to find and more expensive to purchase.�

This question is one worthy of further consideration. Shane Heaton writes "As a fellow nutritionist of course I agree we need everyone to eat more fruit & veg, but it appears we advocate very different strategies on how to achieve that..." he writes.

"Everyone interested in nutrition and public health agrees that encouraging greater consumption of fruit and vegetables is the simplest and most effective way to improving peoples� health. Some believe that encouraging greater consumption of organic food works against this ideal, and therefore organics should not be promoted. It�s assumed that if people buy organic instead of non-organic food, they�ll buy a lesser quantity because of the higher price. I strongly believe this is a false assumption.

"The average household can easily afford the premium for organic food if they buy less junk food (fizzy drinks, crisps, cakes, biscuits, icecream, chocolate, sweets, etc.). Or fewer cigarettes. Or less alcohol. How do I know this? Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that that average household spends more on junk food than on fruit and veg each week. More on take-away, and more on alcohol than fruit and veg. The cigarette market is 6 times the size of the organic food market.

"So let me make an assumption. With a household food and drink budget, most people will tend to buy the �essentials� first � fruit, vegetables, cereals, some ready meals, bread, milk, meat, etc. and then use what�s left to buy �luxuries� � junk food, alcohol, cigarettes, take-aways and the like.

"The key factor here is whether or not consumers consider organic food to be essential or a luxury. As people learn more about differences in nutrient content, pesticide residues, animal welfare, food safety, environmental impact, etc., many do come to believe that organic food and farming are essential for the health of ourselves and that of the environment. If people switch from conventional to organic on the �essentials�, it�s entirely likely they will then spend less on junk-food, alcohol, cigarettes and take-aways, and indeed, research has confirmed that organic consumers have different consumption patterns from non-organic consumers along these lines.

"So if my assumption is correct, switching to organic food would not only mean consumers receive more nutrients and fewer toxins in their now largely organic diet, they�d also potentially consume less alcohol, fewer cigarettes and less fat and sugar-laden junk food. The benefits to their health, that of their families, and public health in general, could be enormous.

"They�d also avoid the considerable uncertainties regarding the health implications of multiple pesticide residues, GMOs, anti-biotic resistance, nitrates and artificial food additives. Those who argue there is no compelling scientific evidence of definite harm from these issues must also concede that there is so much we do not know, that there is equally no evidence that they are safe. Consumers pursuing wellness know better than to wait for scientific consensus on such issues, and often make a personal choice instead to follow the precautionary principle.

"Another important point in this question of how best to improve peoples� fruit and veg intake is the issue of taste. A common experience of organic consumers is that organic produce tastes better. Kids especially notice the difference, and I�ve heard numerous reports from parents who�s kids start actually enjoying fruits and vegetables when they make the switch to organic. Where they previously struggled to get their children to eat much fruit or any vegetables at all, all of a sudden they start asking for more! And they feel great about giving them to their kids, knowing they�re not doused in who knows how many pesticides.

So which is the better strategy to encourage greater fruit and veg consumption? I�m convinced the organic argument �It�s good for you, tastes great, doesn�t pollute the planet, didn�t risk the farmers health when growing it, and won�t slowly poison your family.� is likely to be a far more effective strategy than �Go on, it�s good for you. Don�t worry about the pesticides - it�s cheap!�.

"The environmental and biodiversity benefits of organic farming are well documented and generally accepted. Buying organic food supports organic farming and thus benefits the environment. Do those who advocate increasing consumption of non-organic fruit and vegetables really think it�s wise to pursue wellness with no regard to our environment? Can you be truly well while supporting practices that pollute the environment and reduce biodiversity?

"So the bottom line is that if people go organic they receive more nutrients, fewer toxins, and probably decrease their consumption of health-robbers like cigarettes and junk-food. Whether or not to go organic is a question of priorities. If pursuing optimum health and wellbeing is a priority for you and your family, then it�s a very good idea. If your priorities currently lie elsewhere, that�s fine. It�s your journey. But your choices leave a toxic legacy for future generations, and as a father of two, I�d really rather you didn�t.

"Cheap is expensive, and organic food isn�t a luxury � it�s how food is meant to be."

GOOD TASTE: No competition for Australian bio-dynamic wines

�This year we became Certified Biodynamic, won Gold [for the 07 Semillon] in Melbourne and then it also got �BEST WHITE� at the Organic & Biodynamic wine show. We launched our new Biodynamic Krinklewood labels and our new sub $14 �wild� range. Is there time for more?!� asks Rod Windrim.

Becoming certified Biodynamic is a huge milestone for any vineyard, let alone one based in the Hunter where the climate is usually warm and damp�to the bugs and insects delight.

And the hard work is certainly paying off. Krinklewood 07 Semillon was one of the few Semillons to be awarded a GOLD medal at the Royal Melbourne Show. Recently, the results of the Adelaide Royal Show have boosted the medal tally yet again, with another 2 Silvers (07 Verdelho, 07 Semillon).

�I just want to make great wines; and the biodynamic approach seemed the logical means to achieving this. Now we are seeing Krinklewood stand up against some of the best wines in the country, and to me this brilliantly reinforces that the biodynamic approach is the way forward for us� says Rod.

Krinklewood Vineyard was awarded 4 � stars in the 2008 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion. Four of their wines were awarded 90+ pts.

For more information on Krinklewood or to arrange a time to meet with Rod Windrim, please contact
Rachel Appleton on 0420 938 152 / rachel@krinklewood.com , or see www.krinklewood.comp.

One last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
A bus filled with politicians was driving through the countryside one day, on the campaign trail. The bus driver, caught up in the beautiful scenery, loses control and crashes into a ditch. A farmer living nearby hears the horrible crash and rushes out to discover the wreckage. Finding the politicians, he buries them.

The next day, police come to the farm to question the man. "So you buried all the politicians?" asked the police officer. "Were they all dead?"

The farmer answered, "Some said they weren't, but you know how politicians lie."

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The Organic Advantage Ed 89

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:36:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Wednesday 3 October 2007 - Edition 89
INDUSTRY:	Two flagship new industry resources
AGRIBUSINESS:	Endorsed advisor services a first for industry
ENVIRONMENT:	GE Canola: review for commercial release in Australia
HEALTH:	First Melbourne Organic Expo receives record trade visitors
GOOD TASTE:	Australian organic products receive recognition as the 'tastiest'

Note: If you have trouble reading this newsletter, please view it by clicking on the following link or copying and pasting it into your web browser http://news.bfa.com.au/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?flavor=archive;list=advantage

INDUSTRY NEWS: 2 new industry resources

3 October 2007:
The launch of Australian Certified Organic Magazine

The organic industry is celebrating the launch of its latest and flagship publication. The first edition of the most comprehensive trade magazine Australian Certified Organic Magazine (ACOM) has been born this spring.

Published by well recognized industry leader and organic representative group the Biological Farmers of Australia Co-op Ltd (BFA), the magazine is a refurbishment of the Group�s former Australian Organic Journal.

Click here to read more.

Australian Organic Market Report 2007
For several years a comprehensive Australian organic market report has been awaited to identify and plan for industry growth. In order to address this lack of industry information the University of New England (UNE) on behalf of the Biological Farmers of Australia Co-op Ltd (BFA) are conducting a survey to document and report on the size and scope of the Australian organic domestic and export market. The results from this annual survey will be published in the Australian Organic Market Report 2007 to be launched in early 2008.

The industry survey has recently been sent to all certified organic producers and operators. If you are a retailer/distributor of certified organic food but are not certified by an organic body you are also invited to participate in the survey. If you haven�t received a copy of the survey by then you can download a copy here or alternatively contact Dr Paul Kristiansen of UNE for a copy to be sent to you, ph (02) 6773 2962. Surveys should be returned to UNE by 5th October.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Endorsed advisor services a first for industry

For the first time in Australia there will be an endorsement program for agronomists, consultants and advisors to the organic industry. While in the past organic producers and other industry members have had little guarantee of the legitimacy of services of advisors, an approved advisors list will now provide greater assurance for all, while offering advisors and consultants the benefit of endorsement of the integrity of their business.

Recognised leading representative group for the organic industry, the BFA, has taken upon itself to develop an endorsement program on behalf of industry with the guidance of the BFA Education Subcommittee.

Applicants to the program are required to undergo a 4-day training course with a particular focus on understanding the Organic Standards that underpin the Australian organic industry. Eligibility to the program is also dependent upon an assessment of the technical and commercial background of applicants among other considerations.

Upon successful completion of the program, applicants will be granted licensed use of the BFA �Bud� logo on marketing materials as well as inclusion in the list of approved consultants available for reference in BFA publications, on the BFA website and other directories.

Agronomists, advisors, educational trainers, private consultants and others who provide services to the organic industry are encouraged to join the course simply for developing their skills or to apply for the endorsement program.

For further information on course dates, prices and any other information click here or visit www.bfa.com.au or call (07) 3350 5716.

ENVIRONMENT: GE Canola: review for commercial release in Australia

Right now the GE canola moratoriums in NSW, VIC, TAS & SA are being reviewed. Each jurisdiction has differing legislation to give meaning to the moratoria and each has a different process of review.

The right to remain GE free has not been tested in Australia however in North America billions of dollars are being claimed in lawsuits alleging lost income from contamination disasters with GE crops from Starlink corn, to long grain rice.

Moreover in May of this year an injunction was granted stopping the commercial release of GE alfalfa (lucerne) on the grounds that the US EPA had not properly assessed the environmental impact and social impact from contamination of non GE and organic farm crops.

Furthermore, using ABARE�s own figures it is calculated that the average price advantage for Australia with canola, is $68/tonne over the last two years better than the previous ten years. This coincides with the full labelling of GE oils in Europe and China, something that is non-existent in Australia.

It is essential that the organic sector is informed of the issues at hand and becomes involved by making our views known to our political representatives who will make these decisions on our behalf.

The BFA has commissioned the writing of submissions to each of the State Governments now available for download here (or via the BFA home page at www.bfa.com.au).

In addition, the Greenpeace and GeneEthics websites have sophisticated cyber campaign materials and the capacity to send your message to many politicians at once. Please visit www.geneethics.org or www.greenpeace.org/australia/.

HEALTH: First Melbourne Organic Expo receives record trade visitors

The 3rd annual Organic Expo recently debuted in Melbourne to 7000 attendees at the Royal Exhibition Building, including an Organic Expo record of 1600 trade visitors, 6% of which were from overseas.

Attendees were struck by the new products on offer, the effort exhibitors took creating outstanding stand displays and the growth of the show, not to mention the grandeur of the heritage listed venue. Over 200 exhibitors from all over Australia took part, with 33% from the home state, Victoria.

Click here to read the full story.

Other food event notices:
22 � 25 April 2008 Food & Hotel Asia, Singapore
http://www.foodnhotelasia.com/
The BFA Processor Subcommittee Group is proposing an Australian Organic stand within the Australian Pavilion at the event. Contact processor@bfa.com.au by 5 October.

For events coming up both domestically and international click here.

GOOD TASTE: Australian organic products receive recognition as the 'tastiest'

Recently Australian organic companies have been receiving recognition around Australian and internationally for superior tasting products. Some recent award winners are listed.

Mathew and Emma Gurnsey of Capra Organic Goat�s Cheese were unrivalled amongst a list of 300 quality competitors for the 11th Annual Australian Specialist Cheese Show in Melbourne. Two gold medals were awarded for their �Allegro� and �Mountain Ash� cheeses.

Olive oil by Rylstone Olive Press received recognition as one of the "world's tastiest products" winning a Superior Taste Award by the International Taste & Quality Institute (iTQi) in Brussels.

Nourish Foods' Whole Kids Organic SeaSalt Popcorn, winner of the Snack Foods category of the 2007 Food Challenge Awards.

At the highly popular Organic Expo in Melbourne recently, award winning products included Ladybird Organics for its Pre-pack Salad Mix (2 awards), Organic Bubs Baby Food and Nature�s Child Muslin Baby Wrap.

One last yet essential read to complete your organic advantage -
A farmer in the country has a watermelon patch and upon inspection he discovers that some of the local kids have been helping themselves to a feast.

The farmer thinks of ways to discourage this profit-eating situation. So, he puts up a sign that reads: "WARNING! ONE OF THESE WATERMELONS CONTAINS CYANIDE!"

He smiled smugly as he watched the kids run off the next night without eating any of his melons.

The farmer returns to the watermelon patch a week later to discover that none of the watermelons have been eaten, but finds another sign that reads: "NOW THERE ARE TWO!"

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The Organic Advantage Ed. 88

Wed, 04 Jul 2007 22:22:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Thursday 5 July, 2007 - Edition 88
INDUSTRY:	National Organic Roadshow provides industry support
AGRIBUSINESS:	Great news for the small organic producer
ENVIRONMENT:	Promoting organic farming mitigates climate change
HEALTH:	Organic bread provides a fortification free option for consumers
GOOD TASTE:	"Seriously good" - Barambah Organic wins dairy awards

INDUSTRY NEWS: National Organic Roadshow provides industry support

Held in regional and metropolitan areas around Australia, the roadshow is providing much needed information for new entrants and current members of an industry which despite being the fastest growing sector of the food and drinks industry, is struggling to meet demand.

The Organic Roadshow, hosted by leading organic member organisation Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA) and supported by Ausmin Australia, will arrive in Brisbane on Friday 20th July 2007.

With a full day of unequalled knowledge and advice from successful farmers and business owners participants are able to gain a full overview of the organic sector from biological agriculture and soil health to processing, markets and consumer demand.

BFA�s chairman Mr Doug Haas says �The roadshows have proven and continue to be a successful means of linking industry members at every level of the supply chain, from the grower to the consumer as well as government and others.
Click here to read more
Click here to download the program

Dates of roadshows nationally:
Brisbane, Qld Roadshow:
20th July 2007
Lornceston TAS Roadshow:
5 October 2007
Armidale, NSW Roadshow:
30th November 2007
WA Roadshow:
November 2007

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Great news for small organic producers

Source: BFA, 2 July 2007, www.bfa.com.au

Great news for small producers, as their importance has been identified by the BFA Group.

Today marks a milestone in the history of organic certification in Australia as the Organic Growers of Australia Certified Ltd (OGA), a respected certifier of organic products nationally, has joined the Biological Farmers of Australia Group (BFA) to launch the �BFA/ OGA Small Producers Scheme.�

Howard Rubin, Chairman of OGA today said �The Small Producers Scheme is a system which has been created to qualify the integrity of smaller growers.

�With growing complexities and costs of regulation, smaller growers have not had encouragement to become organic. This scheme which has been stripped of unnecessary costs will significantly reduce the burden of certification on smaller growers and encourage new participants to join our industry.�

The new scheme, which has had overwhelming support nationally, is the reason behind members of the OGA certification company almost unanimously voting to move into the BFA Group in October last year.

The scheme will use the BFA�s Australian Organic Standard, the same standard by which clients of BFA�s subsidiary company Australian Certified Organic (ACO) are certified. The difference for smaller growers will be the removal of all export requirements by Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS) which until now been imposed on all certified businesses regardless of whether produce was being exported or not.

Doug Haas, Chairman for the BFA Group is extremely pleased with the result which the Boards of the two groups have cooperated to achieve.

�Importance of the smaller growers has clearly been identified by the BFA and OGA. These growers should be considered as the organic industry�s seed potatoes which need looking after for growing into the great producers of tomorrow.

�While growers under this scheme are unable to export, if they wish to climb the organic certification ladder and export in the future, they can move easily across into certification with ACO for compliance with standards worldwide.

A �small producer� under the new scheme is defined as a grower of annual organic sales of less than $50,000 whose produce is not exported, however may be sold direct to retailers, at growers markets or from the farm gate.

For more information about the program contact Anna Campbell on 07 3350 5706 ext 224 or email oga@bfa.com.au.

ENVIRONMENT: Promoting organic farming mitigates climate change

Source: FiBL, Germany, www.fibl.org, Feb 2007

The lighter our farming systems tread on the Earth, the less severely climate change will develop. Organic farming has a leading role to play here, as a workshop at BioFach 2007 in Germany has revealed. Urs Niggli of the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) calls for increased support to be given to organic farming, both in the tropics and subtropics and in the temperate zones of the northern hemisphere. This is the way forward to ensuring that the farming and food production sectors conserve and make efficient use of natural resources, work on closed-loop principles and achieve enhanced self-sufficiency and independence from fossil fuels.

Organic farming for greenhouse gas reduction
Organic agriculture achieves high plant yields by making efficient use of organic residues: To fertilize soils, it uses composted harvest residues and animal manure. This saves 50 to 150 kg, depending upon the crop, in synthetic nitrogen fertilizer per hectare which would otherwise need to be produced using non-renewable fuels.

Studies have shown that conventional arable farming operations in England consume some 17,000 litres of fossil fuels embodied in fertilizers per 100 hectare of land each year. Worldwide, 90 million tonnes of mineral oil or natural gas are processed to nitrogen fertilizer every year. This generates 250 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.

With their low-impact methods, organic farmers boost soil fertility and the humus content of soils. The result is that the greenhouse gas CO2 is returned to the biomass of the soil. Long-term field trials conducted over many years in Switzerland have shown that compared to other methods of farming (conventional, integrated production) organic farming enriches 12 to 15 percent more carbon dioxide in the soil, as FiBL soil researcher Andreas Fliessbach explains. This means that organic farms return 575 to 700 kg CO2 to the soil per hectare and year more than other farmers. Scientists in Austria and Germany have confirmed this figure. Organic farming thus reduces CO2 emissions by eliminating synthetic fertilizers, and at the same time reduces atmospheric concentrations of this gas by storing it in the soil � a true win-win strategy.

A further valuable outcome of the organic farming method is that soils with higher humus content can adapt better to the adverse effects of climate change. Soils rich in humus store more water and longer, which is particularly effective in ensuring higher yields during lengthier dry periods in the summer. The improved water retention potential of soils also protects against sudden and strong rainfall, as rivers rise less rapidly and runoff erosion is slowed.

Newly industrializing and developing countries particularly affected
Manuel Amador of Corporaci�n Educativa para el Desarollo Costarricense (CEDECO) presents case studies showing how effectively organic farming in Costa Rica, Cuba and Brazil is helping to reduce greenhouse gases.

Ana Meirelles of the Centro Ecol�gico in Brazil reports on her practical work in the south of the country: Organic smallholders are supported there through various strategies, one being the development of local markets. This is helping to protect the climate, while awareness-raising work at schools and in communication with consumers is creating an understanding of the specific climate impacts of people�s buying behaviour.

Othmar Schwank of the Infras consultancy explains that the impacts of climate change will affect farmers in the developing world greatly. This makes effective adaptation strategies, such as are used in organic farming, particularly important. To promote organic farming, national agricultural policies are just as important as international trade agreements.

Climate credits for organic farming
Jan Verhagen of Wageningen University in the Netherlands is researching ways to integrate farming within a post-Kyoto agreement at international level. An effective climate policy regime would need to contain a credit-and-penalty system designed to promote organic agriculture.

The Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) is working together with a range of partner organizations in the developing world to set up a Global CO2 Project. Salvador Garibay of FiBL explains how this project shall research the contribution of organic farming to climate change mitigation, will generate a broader understanding of these linkages and will seek to integrate organic farming within the Clean Development Mechanism.

The workshop on �Climate Change and Organic Farming� held on 17 February at BioFach 2007 in Nuremberg, Germany, was made possible by financial support provided by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Humanist Institute for Cooperation with Developing Countries (HIVOS, the Netherlands).

Further information:
Contact person at FiBL: Urs Niggli and Andreas Fliessbach, email: info.suisse@fibl.org

HEALTH: Organic bread provides a fortification free option for consumers

Organic consumers in Australia and New Zealand have reason to celebrate further to the decision by Australasian food Ministers that organic flour millers and bakers do not have to add folic acid to their products while for nearly all other bread it is to be mandatory.

Soil & Health NZ spokesperson Steffan Browning says �Organic consumers do not want this synthetic additive in their bread. These consumers know that there are alternatives to synthetics and that organic bread generally has good levels of natural folate due to the lower level of processing with organic flour.�

�The exemption for organic bread will give all consumers a choice of a fortification free product while still accessing a healthy option.�

The decision for fortification is based on evidence that folic acid in the diets of women of child birthing age may reduce the occurrence of spina bifida and other neural tube defects. It is argued however that a strong education programme supporting good nutrition as well as natural sources of protective folate, and optional folic acid supplements would achieve as effective result.

BFA spokesperson Scott Kinnear says that �While research exists linking the cause of neural tube defects to dioxin contaminated 2,4-D herbicides we hope that more recognition be given in future to the link between farming methods and nutrition and disease.

�Certified organic food production disallows pesticides and is focused on improved production and human health through the maintenance of healthy soils.�

GOOD TASTE: "Seriously good" - Barambah Organic wins dairy awards

Family-owned organic dairy Barambah Organics is winning awards to back up years of accolades received from highly respected food critics and the many grateful consumers of its milk and dairy products.

Based at Inglewood, Queensland, Barambah Organics was founded by Ian Campbell, a qualified nutritionist who believes passionately in organics for a healthier and more environmentally sustainable production.

Not only has organic management of the property proven to be a viable production alternative since the family started organic production in 1990, it has gained the company much recognition for its milk products.

The latest example is Highly Commended in the Vogue Produce Awards 2007 for their organic yoghurt, �An outstanding product,� as described by awards judge Philip Johnson. In addition, at the Dairy Industry Australia Awards in May 2007 seven silver awards were won for products including the �Fig Tree Paddock� Double Cream Brie, �Gold Hawk� Washed Rind, the Full Cream Milk and a number of yoghurts. Four silvers awards were taken at the Sydney Royal Dairy Show in March this year.

Ian Campbell says that Barambah�s successful applications for two grants and a scholarship since 2000 have contributed to the success of their products. �The Federal and State Governments have given us enormous support and encouragement and we are very grateful for this,� Mr Campbell says.

Matthew Evans, food journalist for Good Living in the SMH writes �Using the batch method, Barambah Organics produces the best-tasting milk I�ve found commercially. �That�s how milk used to taste,� is a common response.�

Barambah Organics produces milk, yoghurt, quark and a double-cream brie. For more information visit www.barambahorganics.com.au.

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The Organic Advantage Ed. 87

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 03:03:00 GMT

ORGANIC NEWS HEADLINES Tuesday 1 June, 2007 - Edition 87
INDUSTRY:	Expressions of interest for RIRDC Advisory Committees
AGRIBUSINESS:	Certified organic wool market growth
ENVIRONMENT:	Reviewing the State Moratoria on GM Crops
HEALTH:	Research provides good reasons for avoiding food additives
GOOD TASTE:	Organic milk wins gold at Sydney Royal Show

INDUSTRY NEWS: Expressions of interest for RIRDC Advisory Committees

RIRDC has a single, specific objective: to maximize the contribution of our R&D investments to the profitability, sustainability and resilience of rural industries and communities.

RIRDC�s Advisory Committees play a crucial role in helping to shape strategic research plans and identify the best research to implement them. The expertise of individual committee members is critical to this role.

RIRDC invites suitable candidates to submit an Expression of Interest to the Corporation to be considered for a register of prospective committee members.

While there are no specific vacancies on any of the committees at present, the membership of these committees is refreshed on a regular basis, and candidates on the register established from these expressions of interest will be invited to join committees as appropriate vacancies arise.

This process will complement, not replace, existing industry processes to identify advisory committee representatives.

If you are interested in applying please visit the RIRDC website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au/eoi-for-advcomm.html for further information.

AGRIBUSINESS NEWS: Certified Organic Wool Market Growth

Organic wool interest builds

Source: The Land newspaper, May 10, 2007
By Mark Griggs and Rowena McNaughton

Growers of organic wool are set to reap premiums for their home-grown product as consumers turn toward environmentally-friendly clothing.

Representatives of UK retail giant, Marks and Spencer, and its woollen garment spinner and manufacturer, Ferney Spinning, left the Dubbo area last week convinced they could get enough organic wool for continuous production of high quality men�s woollen garments from organically-grown Merino wool.

Marks and Spencer recently announced plans to launch organic wool, cotton and linen product and triple its sales of organic food as part of the company�s new $480 million �eco-plan�.

Manager of Marks and Spencer�s sustainable textiles division, Graham Burden, was in Australia last week with Ferney Spinning�s mill manager, Jean-Baptiste de Speville and CIEL Textile operations executive officer, Eddy Yeung, as guests of Fletcher International Exports topmakers division manager, Anthony Hill, and wool buyer, Phil Cranney.

Mr Yeung said his company had decided to go organic.

�It�s just a matter of when,� he said.

We have ambitious plans, but we needed to know what�s available and when it�s available.

�Our visit has helped us to understand this and we plan to introduce the organic lines next year.�

Mt Yeung said CIEL Textile and Marks and Spencer � its main customer � had been keen to see the production environment behind organic wool in Australia.

�We wanted to see for ourselves what the organic environment means to our industry compared to conventional wool production.

We have contracts with large customers who have a lot of questions about organic wool.

�And we can see 100 percent organic wool has a big future.

�I can even see blanket manufacturing going organic.�

Mr Hall said Fletchers had been dealing with Ferney Spinning for just over four years and saw the potential for organic wool marketing when Ferney�s major customer, Marks and Spencer, turned to organic garment marketing.

�We gained our organic wool processing accreditation in September last year and had produced our first batch of organic wool tops by Christmas,� Mr Hall said.

A total of 25 tonnes had been shipped to Mauritius, Germany and United States mills for testing.

�Organic wool is a winner and will be a big bonus for western area producers who will pick up premiums for their organically produced wool,� Mr Hall said.

Organic wool currently accounts for less than one per cent of the nation�s clip.

Lempriere Fox and Lillie technical and marketing coordinator, Eamon Tinns, said the industry�s ability to meet demand would determine the profitability of organic wool in the long-term.

�The push is in its early days, and whether the organic wool industry can profit from such demand is going to depend on developing better supply,� Mr Timms said.

If the organic industry failed to boost current wool volumes Mr Timms said it would be difficult to move ahead.

A large percentage of organic wool from Argentina and a smaller quantity from New Zealand is feeding growing European and United States demand; however Mr Timms said inconsistent supply had brought a number of enquiries into his office.

Mr Timms said both export parent companies of Lempriere Fox and Lillie were receiving more enquiries recently to supply organic types and other exporters were reporting similar interest.

Largest ever certified organic wool sale a success

On Thursday 24th May Elders Ltd held Australia�s largest ever organic wool sale in Melbourne.

The sale was a success with wool prices on the increase and a significant price premium gained on organic wool, largely represented by consultancy group Organics for Rural Australia (ORA)/ Rural Organics.

The premium prices gained by the three ORA wool growers McClure & Daughters (Trevallyn Station), Jack Ker (Tarella Station) and Brendon Cullen (Mt Westwood) was welcome, reflecting the rising interest in the niche market of organic wool.

ACO staff and Elders� Goeff Redden have worked with ORA and Rural Organics since the consultancy group began in 2001. For ORA Managing Director Janie McClure it has been about building and developing relationships for creating a unique teamwork which has enabled the establishment of an organic wool sale and provided a framework for future development of organic wool production in Australia.

Janie says �Our consultancy group together with Geoff Redden, Manager of Elders Ltd Premier and Certified Organic Wool, and the ACO have cooperated to ensure that the certifications and supporting paper trails were in place for the wool to be marketed with organic integrity.

�Elders BWK provided the highest bid overall for around 600 bales of certified organic wool of which over 90% was provided by ORA,� she added.

The wool is largely destined to be made into woollen fashion items in the UK and US to service the rapidly growing trend for environmentally friendly clothing.

ENVIRONMENT: Reviewing the State Moratoria on GM Crops

As governments review their bans on genetically manipulated (GM) crops in 2007 and 2008, action by farmers is urgently encouraged. Australian organic and biodynamic producers will be among those to suffer if the states� moratoria on GM crops are not extended.

GeneEthics is running a campaign to extend the moratoria for 5 years. Legally, the bans can only be extended on marketing grounds � rather than health or environmental safety grounds.

Still, marketing grounds alone call for the bans to be extended. Market losses are inevitable if GM food crops are introduced, as most Australians don�t want genetically engineered food. Nor do our biggest overseas markets, who reject GM produce and pay premium prices for non-GM food.

Lifting the bans on GM would have effects all the way down the food chain. For example, the dairy industry is likely to face steep market losses, as its biggest export markets are all risk averse to GM. If the Australian dairy industry were to accept GM, it would risk losing these markets or losing market share to other suppliers.

Our organic and biodynamic farms would especially be at risk, as stock-feed segregation does not always work.

GM crops can�t be controlled to prevent contamination of non-GM crops, yet farmers are expected to take the measures necessary to prevent inevitable contamination.

Our biggest export markets for grains have also made it plain that it would not buy GM produce. This is why so many Australian companies backed the state government moratoria on GM canola.

Farmers who don�t want to risk the GM path are expected to accept economic loss, extra costs and liabilities from contamination or safety issues. This would be perilous for organic and biodynamic farmers.

Those who don�t wish to grow GM have been pushing for owners of GM patent-owners, rather than farmers, to be liable for economic losses from the introduction of their products. This move has been rejected by seed companies and our governments.

However we can work together now to protect our markets.

Farmers are urged to act now:
� renew support for the state GE crop moratoriums;
� support an extension of the bans in five States and the ACT until 2013; and
� ensure our dairy foods are GM-free. The United Dairy Farmers of Victoria (UDV) AGM on June 19 will be a key moment in Victorian dairy farms staying GM-free for at least another two or three years.

Please contact geneethics now to find out how you can act now to extend the moratoria. For further information, visit www.geneethics.org, email info@geneethics.org, or phone 1300 133 868.

For further information on keeping dairy products GM free. Download the geneethics Dairy Briefing 2007 and Dairy Action Alert or visit the above websites.

HEALTH: Research provides good reasons for avoiding food additives

An article published in the UK's Daily Mail recently warned parents of the danger of artificial additives used in drinks, sweets and processed foods further with research recently confirming a link between these and behaviour problems in children.

"A study funded by the government's Food Standards Agency (FSA) is understood to have drawn a link with temper tantrums and poor concentration.

"Researchers have found a definite link between additives and temper problems with children.

"There are also concerns about allergic reactions such as asthma and rashes.

"The findings are potentially explosive for the entire food industry, which faces the need to reformulate a vast array of children's products," it warns.

Shane Heaton, Nutritionist for the Biological Farmers of Australia comments "Choosing organic products can help consumers avoid a wide range and large quantity of potentially allergenic or harmful additives. I've said it before and I'll say it again: organic food is not a luxury - it's how food is supposed to be."

Source: Daily Mail http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/health/womenfamily.html?in_article_id=453431&in_page_id=1799

GOOD TASTE: Organic milk wins gold at Sydney Royal Show

Boutique milk booms, By ALAN DICK - Australia
Monday, 21 May 2007

A small NSW South Coast co-operative which launched its own milk brand for local consumption just 18 months ago has already made quite a splash.

South Coast Dairy, a subsidiary of the Berry Rural Co-operative Society Ltd, collected one gold and three silver medals for its milk at this year's recent Sydney Royal Show dairy produce awards.

The gold medal milk, an organic light product, scored 19 out of 20 and was also chosen best milk of the show.

Not only that, South Coast Dairy's sales are expanding rapidly and it is exploring the possibility of expanding its product range.

SOURCE: Extract from the May 17 issue of The Land, NSW's weekly rural newspaper.

Editor's note: South Coast Dairy is supplied by milk processors Country Valley & Highland Organics. The producers of the milk are dairy farmers EL & TL Smillie. Both operations are certified organic through ACO.

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