In a world where food labels can feel confusing or inconsistent, Certified Naturally Grown offers a clear, community-rooted alternative that benefits both producers and consumers. Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) is a peer-reviewed, independent certification designed for farmers and beekeepers committed to ecological agriculture. Unlike larger federal programs, CNG emphasizes transparency, community, and sustainable practices without the high costs or barriers often associated with organic certification.
Source: What is Certified Naturally Grown?
Below is a breakdown of why this program matters, how it supports farmers, and why consumers should look for the CNG label when choosing food for their families.
Why Farmers Choose Certified Naturally Grown
Certified Naturally Grown farmers and beekeepers report that the program gives them credibility, community, and a framework that supports ecological growing practices. Farmers consistently highlight that CNG is accessible, transparent, and aligned with the values of small-scale agriculture.
Many farmers choose CNG because it demonstrates a real commitment to clean, sustainable, soil-supportive farming. As Mindfull Mycology shares,
“We chose to go CNG as a way to demonstrate our commitment to sustainable, clean, transparent agricultural practices.”
Others value the community-driven nature of certification. Bird Fork Farm explains,
“I loved the philosophy, the grassroots nature of it, and the community that comes from it.”
CNG also allows smaller farms—who may not have the financial margin for federal organic certification—to gain credibility for practices they already follow. Up Beet Farm shared,
“We are a small farm and make a very modest living, so getting certified organic wasn’t on the table…CNG celebrates ecological farming practices, has reasonable dues, and offers connectivity to like-minded folks.”
Farms appreciate how CNG recognizes ecological commitments rather than simply checking regulatory boxes. Wild Reid Ranch notes,
“We value that CNG goes above and beyond organic standards…CNG dives deeper into giving back to the land we work with.”
Others emphasize the networking and peer support that CNG fosters. Firdous Gardens highlights,
“Best certification with helpful team feedback, peer-to-peer support and networking.”
Regional Ambassador Joan Domino sums it up:
“Becoming CNG Certified demonstrates that farmers invest meaningful effort into achieving the highest quality, delivering safe nutritious food and safeguarding their surrounding ecosystems.”
And these are only some of the reasons, Certified Naturally Grown farms view the program as a meaningful path toward ecological integrity, transparency, and community recognition.
Why Consumers Should Care About Certified Naturally Grown
Consumers today face shelves full of labels—“natural,” “free-range,” “eco-friendly,” “sustainably grown”—many of which lack regulated definitions or consistent standards. CNG helps simplify this space by offering a clear, trusted certification tied directly to ecological farming and transparent practices.
Sources:
When consumers choose products from Certified Naturally Grown farms, they support practices that avoid toxic chemicals, protect pollinators, build soil health, and keep ecosystems strong. Studies highlighted by CNG show that conventional flowers can contain more than 100 toxic chemicals. This illustrates why certification is important so that customers know exactly what they are getting.
Source: Toxic chemicals in bouquets
CNG also provides detailed transparency for consumers, ensuring that farmers follow ecological growing standards verified through peer inspection. This peer review system adds both accountability and community connection. Giving consumers confidence that their food truly aligns with natural, sustainable practices.
Choosing Certified Naturally Grown farms means supporting growers who prioritize soil health, clean inputs, biodiversity, and honest labeling. It ensures consumers can trust where their food comes from and how it was raised.
Check out some CNG Farms!
Hedge Family Farm (Happy Valley, NC)
Black Dog Bees (Lebanon, NH)
Find CNG farms near you with the CNG map and directory. If you want to shop from a local farm that does not have an online store, message us the name and we will reach out. We love connecting consumers with farms, especially CNG producers who go the extra mile to stay transparent with their customers.
Final Thoughts
Certified Naturally Grown represents a growing movement of producers dedicated to ecological integrity, transparent practices, and community-centered agriculture. The certification empowers farmers, strengthens consumer trust, and supports a more sustainable regional food system.
For farmers, CNG offers credibility, peer support, and recognition for ecological practices without overwhelming financial or administrative barriers. For consumers, it provides clarity in a confusing labeling landscape and ensures their food reflects their values.
At Farm Trader, we appreciate Certified Naturally Grown because it strengthens the relationship between farmers and the communities they feed. CNG gives small and mid-sized farms a practical, respected path to verify their practices while staying true to ecological values. It also helps consumers make confident choices, knowing their food comes from farms committed to clean growing methods and transparency. As a platform dedicated to connecting farmers and buyers directly, we value certifications that build trust, support sustainable agriculture, and make local food more accessible to everyone.
In a time when both farmers and consumers are looking for honest, reliable systems, Certified Naturally Grown stands out as a meaningful partnership in building a healthier and more connected food future!
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