Corporate Control of Organic Foods

Another one from the Organic Consumers Association:
(why it's more important than ever to buy local, as well as organic....)

A MOUTHFUL OF MONEY: THE CORPORATE TAKEOVER OF ORGANIC FOODS
Kraft Foods bought small natural cereals producer Back to Nature in 2004. The company is a subsidiary of Altria Group, which also owns Phillip Morris Companies Inc., one of the largest cigarette makers in the world. Kraft also owns Boca Burger Inc.

Odwalla Inc., which produces natural and organic fruit juices, was purchased by Coca-Cola in 2001.

Dean Foods Co., the largest dairy company in the U.S., bought out Horizon Organic in 2003, in addition to Silk soymilk and White Wave tofu.

Kellogg's has acquired several natural and organic brands: Kashi Cereal and Morningstar Farms.

General Mills purchased Cascadian Farm, in 2000. The brand consists of items such as frozen fruit, vegetables, granola bars and fruit spreads. General Mills also bought out Muir Glen, which produces ketchup, tomato sauce, and salsa.

Unilever bought out Ben & Jerry's for $326 million.

Colgate-Palmolive Co. is purchasing Tom's of Maine, which specializes in natural oral and personal care products.