The resuscitated Organic Rule incorporating welfare requirements was subject to public comment with a deadline for written submissions, yesterday, November 10th.

Agricultural organizations representing producer groups have submitted comments relating to the proposed requirements, including mandatory outside access for chickens and minimum space requirements for pregnant sows, effectively eliminating gestation crates for pork products bearing the USDA Certified Organic Seal.

The Cornucopia Institute is the motivator for small-scale organic producers to submit comments to an obviously receptive Agricultural Marketing Services, administrators of the National Organic Program.  The Cornucopia Institute has expressed concern that the lobbying power of large agricultural producers and associations may result in delays or modifications to the Proposed Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards.