Portland, Ore.- and Vancouver, Canada-based Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc.'s (NAT's) CRAiLAR® Organic Fibers has received Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Textile Auxiliary Agents certification, designating that it is processed using only GOTS-approved chemical inputs. Crailar was evaluated and approved for the certification by OneCert Inc., a Lincoln, Neb.-based certifier of products to six international organic standards. 

Crailar technology, developed by NAT in collaboration with the National Research Council of Canada, involves the processing of bast fibers such as hemp and flax using a proprietary enzyme wash to give them an organic cotton-like texture while allowing them to retain their durability and strength. In its efforts to commercialize Crailar Organic Fibers, NAT has successfully conducted processing trials at Philadelphia-based G.J Littlewood & Son and spinning trials at Kings Mountain, N.C.-based Patrick Yarns; and is collaborating with Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Hanesbrands Inc. to develop apparel products containing Crailar/cotton blends.

GOTS were developed to provide uniform standards within the global textile industry. Collaborators include the Organic Trade Association, Greenfield, Mass.; Soil Association, United Kingdom; International Association Natural Textile Industry, Germany; and Japan Organic Cotton Association.

"Naturally Advanced Technologies is committed to maintaining the highest standards of environmental responsibility in the textile market," said Ken Barker, CEO, NAT. "Obtaining the most stringent and well-respected certification with the GOTS Chemical Input standards validates our process and work to date. Crailar has always been eco sound; now we have certification confirming it."

August 3, 2010