After a slow debut, organic foods have gained momentum in the U.S. A natural complement to a healthful lifestyle, “The global market for organic food and drink reached $23 billion in 2002,” according to the July 2003 newsletter of Organic Monitor, a U.K.-based marketing, consulting and research firm serving the international organic food industry. Furthermore, the article stated, “North America overtook Europe as the largest market for organic food and drink.”
A new interest in organic products naturally has led to the need for organic seasonings, and Kerry provides seasonings that are certified organic through the Washington State Department of Agriculture (Olympia, Wash.). The company sources organic raw materials and organic suitable raw materials based on guidelines established through the National Organic Program (NOP, USDA). “We also review all technical information supplied by the vendor to assure the raw materials meet both internal and governmental guidelines,” explains Cynthia Sasaki, director of R&D. This review is critical in order to expedite organic certification for finished products.