Starting this spring, all Perryhill Produce is Certified Naturally Grown – a grassroots alternative to USDA Organic certification. Read more to learn about the organization and how it compares to the government program.

What is Certified Naturally Grown?

Certified Naturally Grown is a nationwide assurance program developed specifically for small farms with local distribution channels. The CNG badge indicates high organic standards regulated by a farmer-backed organization rather than a government agency.

Why Was the Naturally Grown Certification Established?

In 2002, the right to label food as “organic” was limited to participants in the National Organic Program, ironically restricting many of the small producers who had popularized the term through decades of responsible farming. The Naturally Grown Certification was established by farmers as a standardized assurance of quality and environmental responsibility.

What’s the Difference between Certified Naturally Grown and USDA Organic?

As compared to USDA Organic Certification, Certified Naturally Grown is equivalent in its food safety requirements and restriction of chemicals, and additionally monitors biodiversity, soil and water conservation. While USDA inspections are carried out by government contractors, CNG compliance is monitored through an annual peer review and inspection. Reports are publicly accessible at naturallygrown.org/producers.

Learn more about Certified Naturally Grown at naturallygrown.org