The USDA Organic certification is a rigorous, voluntary process for farms and businesses that want to market their products as organic within the United States. Governed by the National Organic Program (NOP), this certification verifies that an operation complies with a set of national standards covering everything from soil health to handling practices. Obtaining this label provides producers with significant market access and premium pricing opportunities.
The USDA Organic Certification Process: A 5-Step Overview
Becoming certified involves a clear, multi-step process that applies to farms, processors, and handlers.
- Develop an Organic System Plan (OSP): This is a detailed document that acts as the blueprint for your organic operation. It must describe your production, handling, and management practices, as well as the inputs you use and your monitoring systems.
- Select a USDA-Accredited Certifying Agent: You must choose a certifying agent approved by the USDA to conduct your evaluation. The USDA provides a list of accredited agents, and you should compare them based on cost, location, and expertise.
- Submit Your Application: After selecting an agent, you will submit your completed OSP and other application forms for their review. The agent will review your documentation to ensure it complies with NOP regulations.
- Undergo an On-Site Inspection: A qualified inspector will visit your farm or facility to verify that your actual operations align with your OSP. The inspector may also take soil or product samples for testing.
- Receive Certification Decision: The certifying agent reviews the inspection report and your application. If all standards are met, the agent issues your organic certificate. If not, they will identify non-compliances that must be corrected.
Key Standards for Different Operations
To qualify for USDA organic, you must adhere to specific standards based on your type of operation.
Crop Production
- Land Transition: Any land used for organic crops must be free of prohibited synthetic substances for 36 months before the first harvest of an organic crop.
- Inputs: Synthetic fertilizers and pesticides are prohibited. Organic fertilizers, compost, and approved natural substances are used instead.
- Genetic Engineering: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not permitted.
- Soil Health: Operations must implement practices that maintain or improve soil organic matter, like crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting.
Livestock and Poultry
- Organic Feed: Animals must be fed 100% certified organic feed and forage.
- Animal Health: Prophylactic antibiotics and growth hormones are strictly prohibited. Animal health is maintained through preventative practices.
- Outdoor Access: Livestock must have year-round access to the outdoors, including access to pasture for ruminants.
Handling and Processing
- Prevention of Contamination: Certified handlers and processors must take precautions to prevent contact between organic and non-organic ingredients.
- Ingredient Integrity: All organic ingredients must be certified organic, and only approved non-organic ingredients can be used according to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances.
- Traceability: A robust record-keeping system is required to track organic products from suppliers to the final sale.
Comparison of Farming Approaches
To better understand the commitments of organic certification, here is a comparison with conventional methods.
| Aspect | Organic Farming | Conventional Farming |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticides/Fertilizers | Uses approved natural substances like compost and natural pest controls. | Relies on synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides. |
| Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) | Prohibited. | Routinely employs GMOs for higher yields and pest resistance. |
| Soil Health | Builds soil fertility naturally through compost, crop rotation, and cover crops. | Can deplete soil nutrients over time and contribute to erosion. |
| Animal Welfare | Focuses on humane conditions, organic feed, and outdoor access. | Standard industry practices that may include antibiotics and growth hormones. |
| Cost of Production | Often higher due to labor-intensive methods and specific inputs. | Lower due to economies of scale and synthetic inputs. |
| Market Price | Commands premium prices from consumers seeking certified organic products. | Often sold at standard, commodity market prices. |
Annual Recertification and Record-Keeping
Certification is not a one-time event; it requires ongoing commitment and annual renewal. Each year, operations must update their OSP, pay renewal fees, and prepare for an on-site inspection. Meticulous record-keeping is critical for success, as it provides the transparent audit trail that certifiers require. Farmers must be prepared for both scheduled and unannounced inspections. This continuous oversight ensures the integrity of the organic label and builds consumer trust.
Conclusion
Achieving USDA organic certification is a significant undertaking, requiring a deep commitment to sustainable practices and meticulous record-keeping. The process involves a comprehensive, five-step pathway: developing an OSP, applying to a certifying agent, undergoing inspection, receiving a decision, and committing to annual renewal. While the path presents challenges, the benefits of market access, premium pricing, and environmental stewardship are substantial. By following the detailed NOP standards and working closely with a USDA-accredited certifying agent, farms and businesses can successfully navigate the process and join the growing organic movement. For a directory of USDA-accredited certifiers, visit the Agricultural Marketing Service website.
