Content about Product certification

WASHINGTON — A study conducted in mid-January by the Organic Trade Association shows U.S. families are increasingly embracing organic products when they shop. The study also showed increased trust in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Organic seal to properly label organic products.

"More and more parents choose organic foods primarily because of their desire to provide healthful options for their children," said Christine Bushway, OTA's CEO and executive director.

LA JOLLA, Calif. — Kashi, the natural food and lifestyle company, has introduced two USDA Certified organic cereals — Kashi Berry Fruitful and Kashi Blackberry Hills, both of which combine real organic fruit and whole grains.

Berry Fruitful features shredded wheat biscuits with a berry filling made with real, organic fruit, including Concord grapes, apples, raspberries and strawberries. Blackberry Hills pairs organic whole grain rice and wheat flakes with tangy organic blackberries.

BEAVER FALLS, Pa. — Nourish by Sensible Organics, an organic beauty and personal care brand that launches this month exclusively at Whole Foods Market nationwide, has signed actress Christine Taylor to be its national brand ambassador.

In her new role as brand ambassador, she will be the face of the beauty brand and its products, and will help raise awareness about the numerous health and beauty benefits of using 100% USDA-certified organic personal care products.

MT. OLIVE, N.J., and BONN, Del. — Mars Chocolate and Fairtrade International will introduce the first Fairtrade-labeled Mars product.

As part of the collaboration, the first Mars product to carry the Fairtrade mark will be Maltesers, which will arrive in U.K. and Ireland stores in 2012. This initial phase of the agreement will contribute more than $1 million annually in Fairtrade premium funds for cocoa farmers to invest in their farms, business organizations and communities.

NEW YORK — Organic baby brand Green Babies has teamed up with manufacturer MZB Accessories to introduce its baby body care line at Whole Foods Markets throughout the Northeast region.

The full spectrum of skin, hair and bath products for babies is tear-free and contains no artificial fragrances, dyes, parabens or sulfates. Green Babies products retail for between $8.99 and $10.99.