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Most people know Carol Moseley Braun as the former US Senator from Illinois or as former Ambassador to New Zealand, but for the last 3 years she has been busy building her company, Ambassador Organics, into an industry leader in the field of biodynamic food products.

DS: Ambassador Braun, please give us a little background on how you became involved in this new and unique area of foods.

CMB: I set out to restore a family farm as a biodynamic organic farm, and circumstances morphed that initiative into another one - Ambassador Organics - a food company specializing in biodynamic organic products. Biodynamic farming is the most sustainable agricultural system, using only on-farm inputs and natural herbs and farm products to heal and restore the soil. It is the original organic, and can be relied upon to produce Grade A, authentic organic food.

DS: Please explain the differences and similarities between organic and biodynamic agriculture and the food they produce.

CMB: Organic is the starting point, and biodynamic goes the extra mile in requiring attention to the growth processes and inputs. We believe it produces a more nutritious food product, and it has been referred to as “real nutrition that doesn’t cost the earth”.

DS: You know my wife and I are tremendous fans of your delicious tea, but can you please tell us about some of the other products you are currently taking to market?

CMB: Thank you, we are proud of the taste profile of Ambassador Biodynamic organic teas. We also have 3 types of coffee, 10 different spices, and an organic olive oil.

DS: What role do you believe packaging plays in the sustainable market in general and specifically in your products?

CMB: A commitment to sustainability should not be half hearted, and packaging is a huge challenge not only because of the disposal issues, but production as well. In many cases, the packaging costs more than the product it holds. I imagine most people would be appalled that they spend so much money to use so much energy to create so much trash. Consumers will determine the way this conversation will go, and if they demand sustainable packaging, the market will respond, and we will all be able to celebrate a “footprint” reduction that can have long lasting and meaningful impacts.

DS: Ambassador Braun, thank you for granting this interview and for the opportunity to get to know you, your company and your products better.