Understanding the 'Farmers We Know' Brand
The phrase "Farmers We Know" is a trademarked part of the company One Degree Organic Foods, which is known for its commitment to transparency and clean ingredients. Rather than being a separate entity, it is the philosophy behind One Degree Organic Foods' sourcing. The company's founder, Stan Smith, wanted to close the gap between consumers and the origins of their food, which is why they include a QR code on packaging that allows for full ingredient traceability. This direct-to-farm approach is central to their assurance of quality and, specifically, their glyphosate-free claim.
The Importance of Glyphosate-Free Certification
For many years, the presence of glyphosate in oat-based products has been a significant concern for consumers. Glyphosate, the main chemical in the weed-killer Roundup®, is sometimes used as a pre-harvest desiccant to dry out crops and speed up harvesting, a practice that can result in higher residue levels in the final product. While organic certification prohibits the use of glyphosate on farms, cross-contamination from neighboring fields or processing facilities remains a risk. This is why third-party testing is crucial for providing real peace of mind.
To ensure their products are truly glyphosate-free, One Degree Organic Foods goes beyond standard organic protocols. They implement a robust system of sourcing and testing, including:
- Annual, signed contracts with farmers prohibiting the use of glyphosate.
- Required annual training for new farmers on their stringent chemical policies.
- Random, monthly third-party testing of oat samples for glyphosate residues.
- Certification from BioChecked as Non Glyphosate Certified.
This multi-layered approach demonstrates a significant commitment beyond simple organic status, addressing the very real possibility of environmental cross-contamination. One Degree Organic Foods' dedication to this level of detail is what allows them to confidently label their products, including the "Farmers We Know" oatmeal, as glyphosate-free.
Glyphosate-Free vs. Standard Oats: A Comparison
To better understand the value of choosing products with specific glyphosate-free certifications, here is a comparison table outlining the key differences between these products and conventional alternatives.
| Feature | Certified Glyphosate-Free Oats (e.g., Farmers We Know) | Conventional Oats (e.g., many major brands) |
|---|---|---|
| Glyphosate Use | Actively banned and verified as not used on source farms, including as a pre-harvest desiccant. | Can be sprayed with glyphosate, often used pre-harvest to dry out the crop. |
| Residue Testing | Subjected to regular, random third-party testing to ensure no detectable residues. | Often not tested for glyphosate residues, relying solely on regulatory limits. |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Minimized through strict sourcing protocols and facility controls. | Present due to environmental factors and shared processing facilities with conventional crops. |
| Certification | May hold additional certifications like 'Certified Glyphosate Residue Free' (by The Detox Project or BioChecked) in addition to USDA Organic. | May meet legal EPA standards, which are often significantly higher than health benchmarks suggested by groups like the EWG. |
| Company Transparency | Offers full ingredient traceability, allowing consumers to learn about the farmers who grew their oats. | Less transparency regarding sourcing and farming practices for raw materials. |
The Consumer's Role in Driving Change
Consumer demand for clean and transparent food is what pushes companies to adopt stricter standards. By choosing products from brands like One Degree Organic Foods that prioritize third-party testing for glyphosate, consumers send a clear message to the food industry. This has already influenced changes in some parts of the industry, with some companies showing a reduction in glyphosate levels in their products, though the problem is far from eliminated. Your purchasing decisions have power.
It is important to look for specific certifications, such as those from The Detox Project or BioChecked, which confirm that a product has been tested for glyphosate residues. Relying on terms like "natural" is insufficient, as numerous lawsuits have shown that such labels do not guarantee a chemical-free product. Always verify the claims with third-party certification logos on the packaging.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when asking, "is Farmers We Know oatmeal glyphosate free?", the answer is a confident yes, backed by transparent sourcing and third-party verification. For health-conscious consumers concerned about the presence of glyphosate in their food, this brand offers a trustworthy option. By understanding the difference between organic and certified glyphosate-free, and actively looking for brands that exceed minimum standards, you can make informed choices about the food you bring into your home.
For additional insight into certified oat products, consider exploring the list of brands that have been verified by The Detox Project, a non-profit dedicated to transparency in food production.
Note: The "Farmers We Know" brand is produced by One Degree Organic Foods. The linked reference offers a broad list of brands certified by The Detox Project, which supports consumer education on this topic.
