North Otago organic label explored

North Otago organic food growers are debating whether to set up their own label.

A steering committee is organising a growers' group under the auspices of the National Heritage Society, which formed the Oamaru Organic Cooperative that sells food outside the region.

The international Bio-Gro and Demeter labels are available but certification is expensive for small operators.

An organics label, possibly based on international certification rules but without the costly inspections, would enable small producers to sell locally and nationally.