Carrageenan moratorium

This article was originally published in November 2014

PCC has implemented a moratorium on bringing in new organic foods containing the controversial ingredient, carrageenan.

Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and is used primarily to thicken and stabilize the texture of processed foods, such as soy milk. Independent research has found it causes intestinal inflammation and even cancer in laboratory animal studies.

Some companies, such as Organic Valley and White Wave/Silk, already are responding to concerns by reformulating foods without carrageenan.

Also in this issue

Sustainable West Coast seafood

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program has upgraded the sustainability rating of several West Coast fish.

Water quality and fish consumption

There's a battle at the state level over how much local fish we're supposed to be eating and it all hinges on the state's water quality standards. Big business is pushing to minimize water quality protection and allow the levels of pollution it believes are necessary to boost the economy.

Going with the grain

Farmers, researchers and chefs are collaborating to grow and test flavorful local grains.