USDA’s New Bio-Based Label Questioned

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‘Bio-based’: organic’s sketchy new cousin (by Holly Richmond – Grist)

EXCERPT: Thanks to the USDA and the 2002 farm bill, products made from at least a quarter “renewable plant, animal, marine, or forestry materials” can get a special “bio-based” label. Supposedly it’s like the organic or Energy Star labels, but for your glass cleaner and foamy hand soap made from renewable ingredients. The USDA’s press release says the bio-based label will help make green shopping decisions easier. Oh really, USDA? More like make greenwashing and confusion easier.