25 Years of Oregon Tilth Organic Certification
Once Again's Organic Label Goes Above and Beyond
The word “organic” seems simple enough, but when it’s used as a label for food, are you left scratching your head? You’re not alone. My patients and clients admit confusion when it comes to organic labeling. Is it “better” than non-organic foods that use conventional farming and manufacturing processes? They’re aware of the prohibited and limited use of certain chemicals and pesticides, but they’re often divided on whether or not the label matters to them and which food companies they can trust.
As a Registered Dietitian in the editorial and media space, I’ve written about and worked for a variety of food companies, including companies that promote their products as organic or natural. I’ve gotten the inside scoop about how these companies started and the impact they’re trying to make. Some of their stories resonate; others leave me wondering how they’ve earned a space on the shelves. As I’m sure you can guess, it’s the stories of hard work, transparency, and dedication to customers that gain my appreciation.
I felt that level of commitment when I learned that Once Again would be celebrating its 25th Anniversary of Oregon Tilth Certification this year. This is an amazing accomplishment considering the rigorous standards that must be upheld to maintain it.1 When I asked what it meant to them, I loved what they had to say:
“Organic is foundational to Once Again’s identity. It is not a label adopted to follow market trends, but a principle that has guided how the company operates since 1976. From sourcing decisions to innovation and long-term partnerships with growers, organic reflects how Once Again defines quality, integrity, and responsibility.
"Once Again’s commitment to organic is rooted in the belief that food should be clean, responsibly grown, and thoughtfully made. Certified organic standards ensure ingredients are produced without synthetic pesticides, harmful fertilizers, artificial preservatives, or genetically modified organisms. For Once Again, organic represents a disciplined approach to sourcing and a consistent standard applied across every product.”
What Does Organic Mean?
According to the United States government, “USDA certified organic foods are grown and processed according to federal guidelines addressing, among many factors, soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives. Organic producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible.”2 Instead of synthetic chemicals to fight pests, organic farms often rely on natural pest control methods to keep bugs and weeds at bay. Organic farms may also choose to use organic pesticides, which are made from natural substances such as plants and microorganisms instead of synthetic chemicals.3,4
What is Oregon Tilth?
Oregon Tilth is a privately-owned accredited certifier of organic food. To gain certification, foods must meet the same USDA standards, but also adhere to certain sustainability benchmarks. This means there’s an additional focus not just on food quality, but also on the environment and conservation of natural resources.
What Does Organic Mean for Nutrition?
The jury is still out on whether or not organic foods are more nutritious than their conventional counterparts. Several studies point to higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals in organically grown foods, but others find insignificant differences.5
My approach to choosing organic foods is this: If I can afford the organic version of a food that I suspect is vulnerable to the use of synthetic pesticides, I’ll choose it, knowing that my choice supports the work of farmers and brands invested in the wellbeing of their customers and the future of our environment. That being said, I know that organic foods aren’t always a cost-effective option. If your budget won’t allow for organic, then I recommend buying conventionally grown, whole foods instead of processed, and buy the organic version when in season or on sale.
Finally, know what you’re buying. Do your research on food companies and buy from the ones you trust. The best companies believe in doing what’s best for you.
Try Some of Our Favorite Recipes Using Our Organic Nut Butters!
SOURCES:
1. https://tilth.org/certification/apply/certification-steps/
2. https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/organic-certification
3. https://npic.orst.edu/ingred/organic.html
4. National Center for Appropriate Technology. Tipsheet: Organic Pest Management.
5. Daiane Thaise de Oliveira Faoro, et al. Are organics more nutritious than conventional foods? A comprehensive systematic review, Heliyon, 2024;10(7). doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28288.
