practices. QAI Senior Vice President Joe Smillie has served as OTA president and as a member of the board of directors. QAI President Kristen Holt currently serves on the board of directors as treasurer. Past controversy In July 2008, it was reported that organic powdered ginger that had been certified by QAI, was found when tested to be contaminated with the banned pesticide Aldicarb. The organic ginger from which the QAI certified organic powdered ginger originated had been certified organic by two other USDA accredited certifying agents in China. Under Chinese law, foreigners may not inspect Chinese farms. See also Organic farming Organic food Soil Association (United Kingdom organic certification) List of organic food topics References External links Homepage of Quality Assurance International USDA National Organic Program The Organic Trade Association (OTA) Companies based in San Diego Companies established in 1989 Organic food certification organizations Privately held companies based in California Kosher food certification organizations Gluten-free diet Agricultural organizations based in the United States