In a significant move for the organic community, Andrea Hatziyannis, the category strategy manager at Sprouts Farmers Market, has been appointed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). Alongside her, Amanda Felder, who serves as the organic integrity and environmental compliance manager at Taylor Farms, has also received this prestigious appointment. Their terms, initiated this month, will span five years, as confirmed by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack.
The NOSB plays a critical advisory role to the Secretary of Agriculture, recommending policies that govern the production and distribution of organic food products. This includes reviewing and updating the National List of Approved and Prohibited Substances. The board itself includes 15 members representing various segments of the organic community, underscoring the importance of diverse expertise in shaping organic regulations.
Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), expressed enthusiasm regarding the appointments. “We are delighted to see these dedicated members of our association appointed to the NOSB,” said Burns. She highlighted Hatziyannis’s and Felder’s commitment to agriculture, noting that their experiences in organic fresh produce will significantly enrich the board’s endeavors. This sentiment is echoed in the contributions already made by the IFPA as they delineate the challenges faced by the organic produce sector, such as residue testing and certification processes.
Hatziyannis’s expertise stems from her extensive background in food science and manufacturing—a fact that was recently acknowledged when she was named a Top Woman in Store Brands for 2024 by Progressive Grocer. This recognition was attributed to her ability to leverage her knowledge to create innovative products that foster growth and strengthen consumer loyalty. Similarly, her colleague Felder has been recognized for her contributions to organic integrity, reinforcing the quality of organic compliance.
Sprouts Farmers Market is renowned as one of the largest and fastest-growing specialty retailers in the United States for fresh, natural, and organic foods. With over 430 stores and a workforce of approximately 33,000 associates across 24 states, Sprouts has made a significant mark in the grocery sector. It ranked No. 51 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of top food and consumable retailers in North America and was honored as the company’s Retailer of the Year.
The appointment of Hatziyannis and Felder to the NOSB positions both individuals at the forefront of organic advocacy at the federal level, bringing their industry insights directly to policy-making discussions that shape the future of organic food standards. Their work will not only impact producers but also consumers who are increasingly seeking transparency and assurance in their food sources.
In recent months, the IFPA has actively responded to the NOSB’s Fall Work Agenda, emphasizing pivotal organic industry challenges. This engagement underscores the necessity for ongoing dialogue between producers and policymakers to address issues like crop insurance and certification processes—all vital for the growth and sustainability of the organic sector.
Both executives recognize the responsibilities that come with their new roles. They aim to ensure that the voices of organic producers are well-represented on a national scale and that the board’s recommendations effectively reflect the realities of the organic marketplace. The collaboration with IFPA’s Organics Committee and Government Relations team is designed to further strengthen efforts aimed at productive policies that favor organic farming practices.
The current landscape of organic food production is under constant scrutiny and evolving regulations. Thus, leadership within bodies like the NOSB is essential for reinforcing best practices in the industry and advocating for rigorous standards that protect both producers and consumers. Hatziyannis and Felder’s appointments herald a new chapter in organic governance as they bring their vast knowledge in ensuring organic integrity and fostering innovation.
As the organic market expands, driven by consumer demand for healthier options and sustainability, the contributions of these leaders will be crucial. The role of the NOSB is more important now than ever, and with Hatziyannis and Felder advocating for organic practices, stakeholders across the spectrum can look forward to informed recommendations and strategic actions aimed at enhancing the organic ecosystem.
The success of the organic sector will depend largely on how effectively these board members can navigate challenges while enhancing the integrity and value proposition of organic products in the eyes of consumers.