The USDA, Not the FDA, Regulates Organic
Contrary to common belief, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have a formal definition for the term "organic" when it comes to food. The authority to define and regulate the use of this term on food labels in the United States belongs to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), through its National Organic Program (NOP). This program establishes the comprehensive standards that farmers, ranchers, and food processors must follow to receive and maintain organic certification.
Understanding the USDA's Organic Standards
The NOP sets forth a comprehensive set of rules governing organic production and handling, designed to foster resource cycling, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. To be certified, products must be produced without a variety of prohibited substances and methods. The program is backed by the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, making it a federal law with rigorous oversight.
Core Principles of Organic Production
- Prohibited Substances and Methods: Organic products must be produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers, most synthetic pesticides, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering (GMOs).
- Soil and Crop Management: Farmers must follow practices that build soil health and manage pests and weeds naturally, such as crop rotation and using approved biological pesticides.
- Livestock Practices: Organic livestock must be raised with organic feed, have access to the outdoors, and be free from antibiotics or synthetic growth hormones. If an animal is treated with antibiotics for health reasons, it can no longer be sold as organic.
- Processing and Handling: During processing, organic ingredients must be separated from non-organic ones to prevent commingling. Products cannot contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Decoding Organic Labeling Tiers
The USDA offers different labeling categories that indicate the percentage of organic ingredients in a product. It is important for consumers to understand these distinctions.
- "100% Organic": Products bearing this label must contain 100% certified organic ingredients, excluding salt and water. They can display the official USDA organic seal.
- "Organic": These products must contain at least 95% certified organic ingredients. The remaining 5% of ingredients must be on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. This label can also use the USDA organic seal.
- "Made with Organic [Specific Ingredients]": A product with this label must have at least 70% certified organic ingredients. It cannot use the USDA organic seal on the front but can list up to three organic ingredients or food groups on the front panel.
- Specific Organic Ingredient Listings: If a product contains less than 70% organic ingredients, it cannot make an organic claim on the front of the packaging. However, it can list the specific organic ingredients in the ingredients statement.
Organic vs. Natural: The Critical Distinction
One of the most significant points of confusion for consumers is the difference between "organic" and "natural." The distinction is clear: one is heavily regulated, and the other is not.
| Feature | Organic (USDA Certified) | Natural (Generally unregulated) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | Strictly regulated by the USDA National Organic Program. | No formal, legal definition for most food products by the FDA. |
| Pesticides | Prohibits most synthetic pesticides; uses approved natural pesticides. | May contain synthetic pesticides and chemicals. |
| GMOs | Prohibits genetically modified organisms (GMOs). | Can contain GMOs, unless certified non-GMO separately. |
| Hormones/Antibiotics | Prohibits synthetic hormones and routine antibiotics in livestock. | Not prohibited, can be used in livestock production. |
| Processing | Prohibits artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. | Can contain artificial ingredients and be highly processed. |
The FDA's Role: A Closer Look
While the FDA does not define or regulate the "organic" label, it does play a role in the overall safety and labeling of food. The FDA regulates food safety and has oversight on certain food products, such as game meats. For organic products, the FDA ensures they meet general food safety standards, but the specific organic claim falls under USDA jurisdiction. Cosmetics, which the FDA also regulates, must comply with both FDA safety rules and USDA organic certification rules if they bear an organic label.
Why Organic Certification Matters
Organic certification provides consumers with a transparent assurance that a product was produced according to federal standards. For a producer, the process is rigorous and involves extensive record-keeping and annual inspections by a third-party certifier accredited by the NOP. This process traces the product from the farm to the store, adding a layer of accountability that is not present in non-regulated labels. A farmer can face significant penalties, including fines, for mislabeling a product as organic.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, understanding the true meaning of "organic" empowers consumers to make informed choices that align with their nutritional and ethical preferences. The key takeaway is that when you see the USDA organic seal, it's not the FDA, but the USDA's National Organic Program that guarantees the product has been produced and processed according to a strict set of federal regulations. This includes the prohibition of GMOs and most synthetic substances. In contrast, the term "natural" offers no such guarantee. By paying close attention to the specific labeling tiers and understanding the roles of the USDA and FDA, you can better navigate the grocery store aisles with confidence. Source: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
