However, other considerations were raised during the discussion presenting the Committee with a difficult decision overall. One Committee inquired whether there is sufficient need demonstrated to go against the basic principles of organic production and to permit a synthetic material. If the ethylene were manufactured from a natural source it would not be a concern. It is the Committee's assumption that any listed synthetic must be in one of the noted categories. On the other hand, it was discussed that perhaps the point is moot as NOSB did allow ethylene for ripening fruit in the October 1999 meeting.
Further clarification is needed.
The committee believes this stance would encourage the development of either natural sources of ethylene or other more acceptable methods of flower induction in pineapple.