CHICAGO — Robert (Bob) Scaman Jr. admits that when he named his company “Goodness Greeness” 24 years ago, he didn’t foresee how relevant the name would become.

In 1991, Scaman’s “concept was to build a market around the distribution of certified organic produce.” At that time, he added, “certified organics didn’t exist in this part of the country. In 2002 the USDA defined organics.”

While rising from an emerging trade that was focused on the West Coast, “we built around as many products as we could. Early-on, it was ‘catch-as-catch-can.’ Now we routinely receive 200 to 300 items a week.”

The watershed moment promoting organic produce was Meryl Streep’s 1989 outburst against Alar, which threw the apple industry on its ear. Whatever the basis of the discussion, consumer concern with chemical use in produce production escalated.

From very limited initial supplies, the produce industry has evolved to the point that virtually “every major producer is doing something organic as a mainstream item,” he said. “That is a complete turn from 20, or even 10, years ago. It’s been a fun little ride. Acceptance has been an amazing journey.”

Organic production has led to “proactive farming,” which involves building soils before planting to have a healthier environment as well as healthier plants and soils. “These are good growing practices,” he said. “The product tastes better, looks better and ultimately holds up longer.”

Scaman said organic production “is beyond a fad. I believe it will be the majority of the product” in the future. “People won’t accept something that is not properly grown.”

He noted that labor practices and Fair Trade products are merging into the organic segment, “which gives us another way to connect” with consumers. “We carry Fair Trade products when they’re available and when customers ask — they are asking for more.”

Goodness Greeness sources as much local product as is possible. But the firm also handles international products, such as peppers from Israel and New Zealand apples.

“Every year, the supply lines look closer to those of the conventional business,” he said.

Goodness Greeness is highly cognizant of the cold chain and food-safe certifications. Various GAP and FDA standards “have allowed us to improve and dial in our game,” he said. New standards “are an extra set of eyes, which is helpful.”

Goodness Greeness’ facility in South Chicago includes a repacking line for packing its own “Goodness Greeness” label. Culinary herbs are packed by the firm under a “Savory Sensations” label. The firm offers a full line of squeezed, fresh organic juices. This is a “booming” market, he added.

“We have a full line of fruits and vegetables,” he said. “If it’s available, we have it.”