Can you say organically grown if not certified?

October 13, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2024 survey, a significant percentage of consumers actively seek organic products, but many are unaware of the strict legal definitions behind the label. This raises a critical question: can you say organically grown if not certified?

Quick Summary

Labeling food as 'organically grown' without certification depends on your jurisdiction, business size, and specific claim. Government programs regulate the term to protect consumers from misleading claims.

Key Points

Legal Regulation: The term "organic" is legally regulated by government programs like the USDA's NOP, not a general descriptor for farming methods.
Certification is a Third-Party Verification: For a product to be labeled 'certified organic,' it must undergo a rigorous annual inspection by an accredited agent to ensure adherence to national standards.
Small Farmer Exemption: Small-scale producers with sales below a set threshold can market their goods as 'organic' without full certification, but they cannot use the official seal.
Buyer Responsibility: Consumers at farmers' markets must engage with uncertified growers to verify their organic-style practices, as no third party guarantees their claims.
Penalties for Misuse: Businesses that make misleading or false organic claims can face legal consequences for deceptive marketing practices.

The ability to label products as "organically grown" without official certification is nuanced and depends on various factors, including location and scale of operation. In the United States, the term "organic" is legally defined and regulated by the USDA's National Organic Program (NOP). While a farmer may adhere to organic practices, formal certification is required to use the official organic seal or claim products are "certified organic." However, exemptions exist, particularly for small-scale producers selling directly to consumers.

The Legal Distinction: Farming Practice vs. Regulated Label

Practicing organic farming methods is distinct from using the regulated "organic" label. Avoiding synthetic inputs does not automatically permit the use of the term "organic" for marketing. Certification, performed by a USDA-accredited agent, verifies adherence to national standards. This third-party oversight assures consumers that stringent requirements are met, such as soil health management and detailed record-keeping. Misrepresenting products as organic without meeting the standards can lead to penalties for deceptive marketing, protecting consumers who often pay more for organic goods.

USDA Regulations for Using the "Organic" Label

The USDA's NOP sets specific labeling rules based on organic content:

100 Percent Organic: Contains 100% certified organic ingredients. The USDA seal can be used.
Organic: Contains at least 95% certified organic ingredients. The USDA seal can be used.
Made with Organic Ingredients: Contains at least 70% organic ingredients. The USDA seal cannot be used, but specific organic ingredients can be listed.
Less than 70% Organic Ingredients: Cannot be labeled as organic, but organic ingredients can be noted in the ingredient list.

Exemptions for Small-Scale Producers

Small farms following organic standards with gross annual organic sales below a certain threshold (e.g., less than $5,000 in the US) are often exempt from certification. These producers can use the phrase "organically grown" but not the USDA organic seal. They must still maintain records to verify their practices. This exemption helps smaller farmers participate in the organic market without the full cost of certification.

How to Know Your Local Farmer is Legit

When purchasing from uncertified local producers who claim to use organic methods, building trust is key:

Ask about practices: Discuss their methods for pest management, soil health, and sourcing. Knowledgeable farmers are often transparent.
Seek transparency: Inquire about farm tours or online information about their philosophy.
Check for market verification: Some farmers' markets may have their own vendor standards.

Certified Organic vs. Uncertified Organic-Style Farming


Feature	Certified Organic	Uncertified Organic-Style
Legal Labeling	Can use "Organic" label and USDA seal (for 95%+).	Cannot use "Organic" label or USDA seal (unless exempt).
Third-Party Verification	Required annually by an accredited agent.	No third-party inspection.
Market Access	Access to mainstream retailers.	Limited to direct sales.
Consumer Trust	High, backed by standards and enforcement.	Relies on direct relationship and trust.
Cost	Includes annual certification fees.	Avoids certification fees.
Paperwork	Extensive record-keeping required.	Less formal record-keeping.

The Role of Outbound Links and Further Information

The USDA National Organic Program website offers detailed information on official standards for those seeking to learn more.

USDA Agricultural Marketing Service

Conclusion

In conclusion, while employing organic farming methods is possible without certification, legally using the term "organic" on product labels requires either certification or qualification for a small-scale exemption. Certification provides a standardized level of trust and legal compliance for consumers. For buyers of uncertified produce, engaging with growers and understanding their practices is essential for verifying organic claims. The distinction lies in third-party verification, regulation, and market implications, all of which contribute to the transparency and value of organic products.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference is third-party verification. 'Certified organic' means a product has undergone inspection by a USDA-accredited agent and meets national organic standards. 'Organic' can be a farming practice, but is not a legal claim without certification, unless an exemption applies.

Yes, in the United States, small farms with less than $5,000 in gross annual organic sales are exempt from certification. They can use the term 'organically grown' but cannot use the official USDA organic seal on their products.

Mislabeling is considered deceptive marketing and can lead to legal penalties and fines imposed by regulatory bodies. It also erodes consumer trust and can harm your business's reputation.

Consumers should build a relationship with local growers by asking direct questions about their farming methods, visiting the farm if possible, and understanding their pest and weed management techniques. Look for transparency and consistent communication from the farmer.

The health benefits of organically grown food are debated, but from a practical perspective, uncertified food is grown with the same natural methods as certified food. The core difference is the lack of third-party verification, not necessarily the quality of the produce itself.

Reasons often include the high cost of the certification process, the extensive paperwork and record-keeping requirements, and the belief that a direct relationship with their local customers provides enough assurance of their practices.

Yes, organic labeling laws and standards vary significantly by country. For example, the US uses the USDA NOP standards, while the EU and Canada have their own specific regulations and seals.