Frequently Asked Questions

What is organic food?
Farmers have been producing food using organic systems for thousands of years. Essentially, organic agriculture is based on growing crops and livestock through the use of soil-enriching systems. Organic farmers are not allowed to use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and organic livestock are raised with organic feed and a narrow range of permitted medicines.

What does the term "certified organic" mean?
"Certified organic" means that a certification body that is accredited by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has verified that the product meets strictly defined organic standards. The certifier inspects to verify that production and practices are in accordance with the USDA organic standards.

Who sets the organic standards?
In the USA The Organic Food Production Act of 1990 (OFPA) established standards for the production, processing and certification of organic food. The National Organic Standards Board develops guidelines and procedures tfor the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) which oversees the program.

Where can I find MOFGA certified organic products?
MOFGA certified organic products can be found in supermarkets, wholesalers, farm stands, farmers markets, coops etc. An interactive list with all the MOFGA certified organic farms and processors can be found here. In addition this website allows you to search by Produce Item, or Farm and/or Farmer Name, and/or Listed Market.

Where do I go with a complaint about a MOFGA Certified product?
If you have a complaint about the product contact the farmer or the processor.

Where do I go with a complaint/concerns about a mofga certified farm/processor?
If you have a complaint and/or concern about a MOFGA certified farm/processor you should contact the office.

Are products that are albeled “natural” the same as “organic?”
No, these products are not the same. Words like natural, or free range, hormone free are not regulated and should not be confused with the term organic. Only products labeled "organic" have been certified as meeting USDA organic standards.

Why are organic products more expensive than traditionally produced products?
There are several reasons why organic products are more expensive then traditionally produced products
- Organic produce, meat and dairy cost more to produce than their conventional counterparts. For example, the limits on pesticide means that the organic farmers have to do more hand weeding. Such a labor intensive method contributes to a more expensive product
- Organic food supply is limited as compared to demand.
- Some of the cost difference comes from the marketing and distribution chain, as costs are higher because of segregation of organic and conventional produce and the relatively smaller volumes.
- Finally, organic farming proponents say conventionally grown food includes invisible costs, including more damage to the environment, a higher incidence of some cancers and other diseases in farm workers and their children, and contamination of water supplies.

Are organic products completely free of pesticide residues?
Certified organic products are grown and handled according to strict standards without the use of pesticides or other synthetic chemicals. However, organic crops can be inadvertently exposed to agricultural chemicals, such as those present in rain or ground water, or soil previously used for non-organic farming.

Why should I buy organic food?
According to Michael van Straten (1999) in his publication 'Organic Super Foods' there are many reasons why you should buy organic food, several of them are:

to protect future generations
to pay the real cost of real food

to have an independent guarantee

to protect water quality

to enjoy greater flavor and nutrition

to reduce global warming and save energy

to prevent soil erosion

to keep chemicals off your plate

to help small farmers

to help restore biodiversity

How many farms and processors does MOFGA certify?
MOFGA certifies over 300 farms and processors in Maine.