A conventional farm must adhere to organic standards for this period, often two to three years.

In some countries, organic standards are formulated and overseen by the government.

While a few states have organic standards, neither the standards nor their enforcement is consistent.

If it is not, ask what the company's organic standards are and who certifies their ingredients.

Up to now, the federal organic standards have provided a bulwark against that pressure.

"Otherwise it will compromise the integrity of the organic standards."

They tend to be more specific than, and fit within, general organic standards.

But the organic standard is only as good as the regulations that define it.

Also, it is important to point out that there are large differences in organic standards among countries and certifying agencies.

Leahy also is the father of the national organic standards and labeling program, which took effect in October 2002.