February 6, 2019
![Beyond the label: 11 brands that 'step up to organic' Beyond the label: 11 brands that 'step up to organic'](https://eu-images.contentstack.com/v3/assets/blt09e5e63517a16184/blt3084643ebedc71eb/64ff1ca421998c6302bb09a1/USDA-Organic-web16_0.png?width=700&auto=webp&quality=80&disable=upscale)
Innovation for a better world is in Alter Eco’s DNA. As one of the first registered Public Benefit Corporations and B-Corporation, Alter Eco prioritizes four pillars of business: sourcing using Fair Trade principles, producing only organic and non-GMO foods, creating minimal waste by working towards 100 percent compostable packaging and in-setting carbon emissions by means of large-scale reforestation programs in the cooperatives that produce its crops. The company is working toward being a carbon negative company.
Not only has Clif Bar innovated in product offerings, they are a leader in driving initiatives in organic farming with a focus on helping farmer’s find new opportunities for crops. The company’s focus on supply chain innovation has led them to use a greater diversity of crop species, which in turn helps farmers to have more crops that are profitable. Not to mention, Clif Bar is the largest private funder of organic research. While we don’t have all the details on their new products, we know there ’s a lot more exciting news to come at Expo.
Consumers are starting to connect the dots that what goes on your body matters as much as what goes in your body. Still, the term “organic” is not regulated on non-agricultural products, including personal care. So those who commit to being certified organic still have to compete against greenwashing. From the get go, whether it's turmeric spot treatment or organic rosewater facial toner, Cocokind has been committed to being both certified organic and affordable to its users. This young company has done a great job of using social media to drive sales, in addition to being at retail.
It’s hard to change habits overnight. We think soda lovers who are trying to decrease sugar consumption will appreciate this certified USDA organic alternative. DRY Zero Sugar Ruby Citrus soda is moving into unchartered territory by offering this organic, zero-sugar, citrus-flavored soda. Containing only five ingredients, it’s lightly sweetened with organic stevia leaf extract.
Flora Health has been around for a long time. But this is an example of another company that continues to innovate. In fact, at first we didn’t recognize the company’s line of organic apple cider vinegar-based wellness shots as being a Flora product. Not only are the flavors refreshing (think elderberry, ginger and lemon), so is the new look.
With organic dietary supplements continuing to grow at a pace faster than numbers reported for all dietary supplements, Garden of Life continues to be a leader in this category. New ownership has not lessened the company’s commitment to innovation and clean products. From sports nutrition powders, sleep formulas to multivitamins, the company is dedicated to science, traceability and growing organic farmland and supply.
Who doesn’t like a little treat now and then? If you’re going to indulge then this one’s worth it. Not an energy bar, not a chocolate bar, but a yummy snack for a lunchbox or an after workout energizer. Made with organic ingredients, honey, no artificial colors or preservatives and containing 5g of protein, we think these snacks are worth a try.
It’s one thing to serve up organic rice, it’s another to offer Lundberg’s organic grainspirations Gochujang, Gouda and Mozzarella or Black Rice Arancini. Yum! We love that Lundberg Family Farms, which has been selling organic rice since the 60’s, continues to move the needle and innovate with new products year over year, while remaining wholly committed to organic and sustainability.
We know Nutiva for being a pioneer in plant-based organic foods, including oils, seeds and baking products, such as the new dairy-free squeezable Coconut Manna, for spreading, baking and smoothies. Now, the company is launching its first body-care line of organic coconut body oils—non-toxic moisturizers designed for body, face and hair. In addition, Nutiva is introducing the first USDA certified organic MCT powder along with USA-grown organic hempseed, the first that’s grown entirely in the United States.
Who ever thought Patagonia would be associated with organic food and beer — beyond the beer you drink after a long day of climbing or hiking in Patagonia gear? We suppose it’s really no surprise as the company’s interest in the planet has stretched well beyond preserving wild places to supporting regenerative organic agriculture as a possible solution to slow the climate crisis and even reverse it. This thought process was backed by the company giving its $10 million tax cut back to environmental groups including those supporting regenerative organic agriculture. In addition, Patagonia’s use of diverse ingredients such as kernza wheat, hemp, buckwheat and buffalo, aim to promote long-term soil health. Curious? Stop by to try the company’s new offerings, including the Long Root Wit beer, a northwest spin on a classic Belgian-styled witbeir. And don’t miss Patagonia founder Yvonne Chouinnard’s keynote on Climate Day, March 5.
Our hats are always off to organic pet food companies. Despite efforts, the National Organic Program (NOP) still lacks the legal authority to regulate “organic” claims on pet food except when companies voluntarily choose to meet the organic standards. There still aren’t many who do so. Many companies have ventured into organic with single-ingredient treats, but not as many do with multi-ingredient food offerings. Tender and True serves up organic kibble and wet food for dogs, and cats, too. With Millennials wanting the same healthy food for their pets as themselves, we think this category is poised for future growth.
Our hats are always off to organic pet food companies. Despite efforts, the National Organic Program (NOP) still lacks the legal authority to regulate “organic” claims on pet food except when companies voluntarily choose to meet the organic standards. There still aren’t many who do so. Many companies have ventured into organic with single-ingredient treats, but not as many do with multi-ingredient food offerings. Tender and True serves up organic kibble and wet food for dogs, and cats, too. With Millennials wanting the same healthy food for their pets as themselves, we think this category is poised for future growth.
There's a lot to celebrate in organic these days. The number of companies in this space continues to grow, as does the variety and depth of product offerings. While it’s impossible to highlight everyone at once, here are a few standout brands and their products to give you an idea of who is Stepping Up to Organic at Expo West.
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