Is that produce labeled organic really pesticide-free? The US Depart – ment of Agricultures National Organic Program recently announced a step-up in spot inspections to make sure organic foods live up to their promises. The move comes in response to a report from the departments inspector general that exposed major gaps in federal oversight of organic foods-in particular, frequent failure to perform the spot testing for pesticides required in a 1990 law. A review of independent agents responsible for certifying almost a third of US organic foods found that none did routine spot testing. In addition to testing for pesticide residues, slated to begin in September, the government will require unannounced inspections of organic producers and start regular checks of organic foods in stores. A trade association for organic producers welcomed the moves, saying the National Organic Program has lacked the resources until now to keep pace with the industrys rapid growth; the programs budget expanded from $3.9 million to $6.9 million for the current fiscal year, and staff will almost double.
