Carrageenan moratorium

This article was originally published in November 2014

PCC has implemented a moratorium on bringing in new organic foods containing the controversial ingredient, carrageenan.

Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and is used primarily to thicken and stabilize the texture of processed foods, such as soy milk. Independent research has found it causes intestinal inflammation and even cancer in laboratory animal studies.

Some companies, such as Organic Valley and White Wave/Silk, already are responding to concerns by reformulating foods without carrageenan.

Also in this issue

Seafood advisory

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reversed a 2004 advisory that pregnant women should shun most seafood.

Supporting non-GMO choices

More than 2,200 brands making more than 20,000 products now are verified by the non-GMO Project.

Going with the grain

Farmers, researchers and chefs are collaborating to grow and test flavorful local grains.