The Organic Trade Association (OTA) submitted two petitions to the National Organic Program based on feedback from its members. OTA wants changes to the National List of substances allowed in organic. Specifically, the group asked for current rules that allow natural flavors in organic products to be revised so that organic flavors are required when commercially available. OTA also asked for lignin sulfonate to be removed from the list as an allowed flotation agent in post-harvest handling of organic produce.

Allergy-friendly and gluten-free food maker Ian’s, Framingham, MA, announced the launch of a new and improved Web site (www.iansnaturalfoods.com). New resources will include a registered dietitian forum that answers food allergen or general nutrition questions, helpful “Food Allergy 101” facts and information and user-friendly product search options.

For the ninth time, Black Beans from Eden Foods, Clinton, MI, were selected by Men’s Health magazine for its annual “100 Best Foods for Men” feature.

The Non-GMO Project announced that it has updated its Standard for Verification to require that a product’s evaluation include any immersion packaging, such as a tea bag. Numi Organic Tea, Oakland, CA, spurred the change by having its tea bags verified as non-GMO.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, January 2015