ORGANIC

Organic certification is a meticulous process designed for producers of organic agricultural products, primarily recognized as ecological or biological products in the European Union.

ORGANIC

This certification encompasses various stakeholders directly involved in food production, including seed suppliers, farmers, food processors, retailers, and even restaurants.

 

A lesser-known facet of organic certification pertains to textiles, where it ensures that textile products are crafted from fibers sourced from organically cultivated crops.

The specific requirements for organic certification can vary from one country to another, and typically encompass a comprehensive set of production standards that cover cultivation, storage, processing, packaging, and transportation. These standards mandate:

Avoidance of Synthetic Inputs

Producers are required to abstain from using synthetic chemical inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, and food additives. Additionally, irradiation and the use of sewage sludge are prohibited.

Exclusion of Genetically Modified Seed

The use of genetically modified seed is strictly prohibited in organic agriculture.

Soil Quality

Organic farming necessitates the use of farmland that has remained free from prohibited chemical inputs for a specified duration, often three or more years.

Livestock Requirements

For livestock, specific criteria are established for feed, housing, and breeding to ensure their well-being and adherence to organic principles.

Record Keeping

Certified producers are mandated to maintain meticulous written records of their production and sales activities, forming a comprehensive audit trail.

Separation of Products

There is a stringent requirement for the physical separation of organic products from non-certified ones throughout the production and distribution process.

On-Site Inspections

Periodic on-site inspections are conducted to validate compliance with organic standards.

It is important to note that the oversight of organic certification can be carried out by government agencies in certain countries, and the commercial use of the term “organic” may be legally regulated. Certified organic producers are subject to the same agricultural, food safety, and other government regulations that apply to their non-certified counterparts. This rigorous certification process is crucial in ensuring the integrity and authenticity of organic products in the market.