Organic Production

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Overview
Organic farming is a production system used to produce crops that relies on developing biological diversity in the field to disrupt the environment for pests and maintaining and replenishing the fertility of the soil. Organic producers are not allowed to use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. To be certified as organic an independent state or private organization accredited by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) must verify that that the crop has been grown and processed according to uniform standards.
Duncan Family Farms is certified by Quality Assurance International (QAI), the leading provider of organic certification services worldwide. Our farm has been certified organic since February of 2004. The certification process is quite extensive and requires us to annually submit an organic system plan and participate in inspections of all of our farm fields and facilities. Inspectors verify that we are following all organic practices and are keeping thorough and accurate records to document these practices.

Links
Quality Assurance International (QAI)
Quality Assurance International (QAI) is the leading provider of organic certification services worldwide. Accredited by multiple organizations, QAI's programs verify organic integrity at each link of the supply chain.

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Enhancing food safety by taking steps to reduce the prevalence of food borne hazards from farm to table is one of the many key activities of the USDA.

Arizona Leafy Green Products Shipper Marketing Agreement (AZ LGMA)
The AZ LGMA was established in 2007 and represents an industry wide commitment to food safety. Members of the AZ LGMA are working collaboratively to protect public health by reducing potential sources of contamination in Arizona grown leafy greens. The program is designed to continue consumer confidence in Arizona leafy greens through mandatory food safety standards and audits by government-certified inspectors.