Ecolabel requires reduced pesticide use

The first product carrying the ecolabel Protected Harvest will go on sale in U.S. stores in November. The Healthy Grown brand potatoes earned the label by eliminating high-risk pesticides in favor of biologically integrated pest management on farms. Protected Harvest, which is endorsed by the Worldwide Wildlife Fund, hopes to certify wine grapes, Florida tomatoes, peppers, and sweet corn soon, and expand standards to improve soil quality and biodiversity. The certification process and label resulted from collaborative efforts between farmers, scientists, and environmental advocates to offer environmentally responsible products. Consult www.protectedharvest.org for information on the standards. —RACHEL PETKEWICH