Certified Naturally Grown: A Guide to CNG Certification

What Does Certified Naturally Grown Mean?

Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) is a grassroots alternative to the USDA Organic certification. It is tailored for small-scale farmers and producers who prioritize sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. CNG was established in 2002 as a farmer-led initiative to provide a certification system that is both rigorous and accessible, without the bureaucratic complexities often associated with USDA Organic certification.

Certified Naturally Grown vs. Organic Certification

Both Certified Naturally Grown and USDA Organic share similar principles, emphasizing environmentally friendly practices and the exclusion of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. However, there are some key differences:

Key Differences:

1. Cost: CNG is more affordable, making it ideal for small-scale farmers.
2. Inspection Process: CNG uses a peer-review inspection system where other CNG farmers or qualified professionals perform inspections. USDA Organic inspections are conducted by third-party certifiers and can be more expensive.
3. Regulatory Body: CNG is an independent program led by farmers, while USDA Organic is regulated by the federal government.
4. Market Reach: USDA Organic certification may be more widely recognized in mainstream markets, but the Certified Naturally Grown label resonates strongly with local and direct-to-consumer markets.

Both certifications signal a commitment to sustainable and natural farming, but CNG offers a community-driven, cost-effective alternative.

The Certified Naturally Grown Logo and Label

The Certified Naturally Grown logo is a recognizable symbol of trust for consumers who value locally grown, naturally produced food. Farmers display the CNG label on their products to indicate adherence to rigorous standards, including:

• No synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.
• Non-GMO seeds and plants.
• Sustainable soil and water management practices.
• Ethical treatment of livestock, with access to pasture and natural diets.

By choosing products with the Certified Naturally Grown logo, consumers support farmers dedicated to environmentally friendly practices and local food systems.

How to Become Certified Naturally Grown

The process to obtain CNG certification is straightforward and farmer-friendly:

1. Application: Farmers submit an application detailing their farming practices.
2. Inspection: Peer inspections are conducted by other CNG farmers or knowledgeable professionals. This fosters community engagement and mutual support.
3. Compliance: Farmers must adhere to CNG standards, which align closely with organic practices.
4. Annual Renewal: Certification is renewed annually to ensure ongoing compliance.

This process is designed to be transparent, inclusive, and supportive of small-scale farmers.

Why Choose Certified Naturally Grown?

1. Affordable Certification: CNG provides an accessible option for small farmers who cannot afford the costs associated with USDA Organic certification.
2. Local and Community Focus: The CNG label fosters trust between farmers and local consumers, emphasizing relationships and transparency.
3. Eco-Friendly Practices: CNG-certified farmers adhere to strict standards that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable practices.
4. Consumer Trust: The Certified Naturally Grown logo assures consumers that the food they purchase aligns with their values of sustainability and ethical farming.

Where to Find Certified Naturally Grown Products

Products bearing the CNG label can be found at:

• Farmers’ Markets: Many CNG-certified farmers sell directly to consumers at local markets.
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): CNG farmers often participate in CSA programs, delivering fresh, naturally grown produce to subscribers.
• Local Stores: Some independent grocers and co-ops stock products with the Certified Naturally Grown logo.

To find CNG farms near you, visit the Certified Naturally Grown website for a directory of certified producers.

Supporting the Certified Naturally Grown Movement

By choosing products with the Certified Naturally Grown label, consumers help sustain a movement rooted in fairness, sustainability, and community. CNG certification empowers small-scale farmers, promotes environmentally friendly practices, and strengthens local food systems.

For farmers, CNG provides an affordable pathway to certification, allowing them to showcase their commitment to natural and sustainable practices without the barriers of conventional organic certification. The Certified Naturally Grown logo stands as a trusted symbol of integrity and quality in the local and sustainable food movement.