Use of non-organic feed prompts calls for clarity from Defra
UK - Defra is investigating claims that derogations are being issued which allow feed compounders to include up to 50% non-organic ingredients in organic rations.
16 October 2006
2 minute read
An August 2005 DEFRA ruling permits the use of non-organic feeds in organic livestock rations if organic ingredients cannot be found.
But Ian Proctor, managing director of Derbyshire-based Hi Peak Feeds, has written to DEFRA claiming that in some cases little or no effort is being made to source organic material, as compounders try to cut costs.
"Conventional beans, for example, are £100/t cheaper than organic beans, so if you can use 20% non-organic in a ration, that will save you £20/t," he said.
Mr Proctor said derogations should be issued on a national basis (eg, in the event of a poor harvest), rather than case-by-case and be specific to a particular product, with a specified maximum inclusion rate.
Source: FWi
But Ian Proctor, managing director of Derbyshire-based Hi Peak Feeds, has written to DEFRA claiming that in some cases little or no effort is being made to source organic material, as compounders try to cut costs.
"Conventional beans, for example, are £100/t cheaper than organic beans, so if you can use 20% non-organic in a ration, that will save you £20/t," he said.
Mr Proctor said derogations should be issued on a national basis (eg, in the event of a poor harvest), rather than case-by-case and be specific to a particular product, with a specified maximum inclusion rate.
Source: FWi
