Driscoll’s launch “organic in-conversion” blueberries grown by farmers waiting certification

Berry marketing giant Driscoll’s has launched a line of blueberries grown by farmers awaiting their organic certification. Do you agree with the new “organic in-conversion” labelling?

US berry marketer Driscoll’s is selling blueberries in Australia branded as “organic in-conversion” that are being grown by farmers awaiting organic certification.

The terminology is designed to attract greater profits for farmers whose products are still unable to attract organic premiums but who are paying more for labour, soil inputs and harvesting lower yields.

It takes three years for a farmer to convert their operation to an organic one and follows four audits by one of Australia’s six certifying boards.

Tumbarumba blueberry farmer Nico Mulder grows Driscoll's “organic in-conversion” blueberries that are sold at Woolworths, Coles and independent grocers.

General manager of Driscoll Australia – a joint venture between the Costa Group and Driscoll’s – Jon Gleeson said the aim was to support farmers in the conversion process and give consumers more choice.

“We think it’s important people are aware of the term “organic in-conversion” so they can make healthier, more sustainable choices and support farmers who are dedicated to this transition for the betterment of the planet,” he said.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Should food be labelled organic in-conversion? Tell us in the comments below.

Australian Organic chief executive Niki Ford said Australia’s peak body for the organic sector was supportive of the range that only applied to farmers’ produce that has been transitioning to organic farming for at least 12 months.

“Most countries around the world have an in-conversion process as part of their organic standard. In-conversion is the period of time a farmer is in before they can be fully certified organic. It’s like training wheels – they’re transitioning to certified organic. During the in-conversion period they must adhere 100 per cent to the organic standard,” Ms Ford said.

Driscoll’s “organic in-conversion” blueberries are pesticide, additive and GMO-free and are currently grown by Tumbarumba farmer Nico Mulder and sold at Woolworths, Coles and independent grocers.

The plan is to recruit more conventional berry farmers this year to organic farming to supply the marketer’s range of blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries.

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