When a group of local growers in Hartland, Devon decided, in 1998, to apply for certification so that they could put an "organic" symbol on their produce, they realised that because they were all selling only small quantities, they could not afford the fees.

Then someone said: "Hey, we are only selling in our local area. Everyone round here knows we grow our stuff without harmful chemicals etc. Why don't we create our own symbol?"

So the WFA was born.

The name, "Wholesome Food Association" was coined by Sky McCain, a member of the original group, the first secretary - and now director - of the organisation.

The original symbol - with a picture of a garden fork - was officially unveiled in September 1999.

The idea caught on, and it was decided to offer the symbol to other groups and growers who found themselves in the same situation. Enquiries came in from all over the UK, most with the same story, "we want to sell our organic produce but we are too small to afford full organic certification."

At that point, administrative assistance from the International Society for Ecology & Culture (ISEC) was given to launch the WFA as a national organisation. Phil Chandler, while working for ISEC, took on the project, created the structure, and contributed to the guidelines. Phil created the first website, redesigned the symbol and served as Managing Director for two years. He has now handed the reins to Sky, but is still available for special projects.

The WFA is registered as a non-profit company limited by guarantee, which means that it has no shareholders and exists solely for the benefit of its affiliates.

All administrative work is done on a voluntary basis.