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Early breaking of organic feed rules bodes ill for the future

Posted on Monday, 04 February 2008 02:05PM by
DEFRA-sanction of conventional feedstuffs in organic ruminant diets less than a fortnight after the practice was banned is a blow for the sector as a whole. The managing director of a leading organic feed manufacturer claims derogations have been approved for conventional ingredients – prairie meal, potato protein and rape expeller - despite organic alternatives being available. He states the consequence as commercial advantage to those least inclined to reach the standard and as a result shout loudest at the mere hint of ingredient shortage, whether real or otherwise. Ian Proctor, managing director of Derbyshire-based Hi Peak Feeds of Killamarsh said: “That the much heralded and long awaited 100% organic rule for ruminants should be broken so soon after its introduction is sad; that it occurred in circumstances where obvious organic options exist bodes badly for upholding future policy. In truth something that has taken ten years to implement has fallen in as many days. “With a little shopping around, highly acceptable organic alternatives can be found for the ingredients in question, making derogations unnecessary. In the case of organic rape expeller, the ideal organic alternative - sunflower expeller - is readily available; yet a conventional option has been granted. Also traders are commenting that although organic Soya is available for spot movement and forward positions there is little trade as the possibility of derogation is undermining demand. It gives the impression that the desire for 100% organic ingredients is little more than a grand gesture, overruled by the slightest obstacle. More…. “Although DEFRA stipulate Certification Bodies should grant derogations only after taking account of individual efforts to secure organic supplies; the reality is many will use it carte blanch and see it as a right. Much consumer goodwill surrounded the move to all-organic rations, and this setback will dash expectations,” he commented. Hi Peak Feeds has manufactured 100% organic ruminant rations for the majority of the twelve months leading up to the ending of the ‘non organic feed allowance’, which came into force on January 1, 2008. The company believes current organic premium over conventional is insufficient if the sector is to find the footing needed to reach its potential, and has lobbied to that end. It sees the use of conventional feeds in the organic food chain as hindrance to increasing organic material supply. The current DEFRA derogation is in place until February 28, 2008. -ends- January 23, 2008 Further information from: Ian Proctor Hi Peak Feeds Ltd Hi Peak Feeds Mill Sheffield Road Killamarsh Derbyshire S21 IED Tel: 0114 248 0608 Fax: 0114 247 5189
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