What do each of these terms mean?
Sustainable
Products are designated sustainable by a recognized third-party certifier. Certification ensures the future availability and health of the resources used to produce a product or service.
FSA supports sustainable agriculture through our association with the Food Alliance and sustainable products like Shepherd’s Grain and fresh produce. The Portland Branch of Food Services of America is the first broad-line distributor in the nation that has been certified by the Food Alliance for sustainable business practices.
Natural
Products derived from natural (non-synthetic) food sources. Any alterations during production and processing must not change the composition of the original product.
We support the ‘Natural movement’ with products like Misty Isle Beef and Blue Mesa Beef.
Organic
Products grown within the standards and requirements of the USDA Organic Code.
FSA supports organic lifestyles thru partnership with Earthbound Farms, the Organically Grown Company, and many local farmers.
Regional
Products grown or manufactured within the regional area designated by each FSA branch.
FSA supports the economic and cultural identity of the Northwest thru sponsorship of the award winning Dining Out In The NorthwestSM (DO IT NW SM ) Campaign, and through partnership with hundreds of regional manufacturers and growers.
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How and Why Were These Definitions Created
SNOR definitions were created by, and for, Food Services of America® (FSA) to categorize products so that they clearly align with the beliefs of FSA , with the intent of the environmental movement, and within the confines set by the U.S. government’s already established guidelines. As this movement evolves and as science and education continue to shed light on this challenging field, SNOR definitions will also evolve to reflect these changes.