Fellow beekeepers
I know there has been some discussion over the last few days about
what constitutes organic honey production and whether it's really
possible. I don't know whether this has been prompted by the impending
USDA legislation (?) changing the definition of "organic" to mean
pretty much what non-organic is now. I only heard of this legislation
this morning, but I wanted to raise it, as I think it has profound
implications for everyone, not least small farmers (and I think
beekeepers would often view themselves as small farmers, with a
greater than average commitment to not using chemicals).
I do not know the details of the legislation, but it appears that it
will not only allow farmers from describing what are currently
distinctly non-organic practices (such as use of antibiotics and
growth promoters) as organic, it will ultimately go further by denying
other farmers the right to produce foods in any way different.
Effectively, it could lead to the end of the production of organic
food.
I realise that this may appear to be a largely US issue (and as a
Limey, you are probably wondering what it has to do with me), but the
fact is that US food standards end up being the de facto world
standards, through the operation of GATT and the World Trade
Organization. Effectively, this legislation could lead to the banning
of organic food production worldwide.
Regardless of whether you farm organically, or eat organic food, it is
surely not a good thing that people choosing to farm in a way which is
clearly not harmful* (even if it is equally not any more beneficial)
should be prevented from doing so.
* except to those people who would wish to sell chemicals to the
farmers and who see organic food production and consumption growing
rapidly
As small (or large) farmers of bees (and maybe other things) I urge
you to protest to the USDA about this potential curtailment of your
(and your neighbours, near or far) rights to choose to farm in a
certain way.
If you think this posting is wholly inappropriate, or you want to
flame me for bad grammar, or whatever, please do it to me, not the
list. Also, if you've got any suggestions about how I can lobby the
USDA further, please let me know.
Leo Walford
London, UK
one hive
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