As a farmer, retailer or other business, gaining USDA organic certification status is a savvy and ethical business move. However, it's not enough to simply claim "organic." You must make sure that your product is carrying the certified USDA Organic Seal.
The USDA National Organic Standard Seal not only shows your ongoing commitment to a healthy planet but assures consumers and buyers that your product meets stringent USDA organic certification requirements, thus will make your product more marketable and profitable.
So, how do you get started with the USDA organic certification process?
Are You Eligible for USDA Organic Certification?
The best way to find out if your farm or product is eligible for USDA organic certification is to contact a reputable organic certifying agent. An organic certification agent is an agent who is accredited by the National Organic Program (NOP).
Choosing the right organic certification agent is a big deal as your agent will help you with the planning process, inspect your product and in the end, license you to use the term "organic" to sell your product.
- Choose the Best Organic Certification Agency
- What Questions Should You Ask an Organic Certification Agency?
Who Can Get USDA Certified Organic?
In general, you may be eligible for organic certification if you are one of the following.
- A commercial producer of organic crops or livestock such as a farmer or livestock producer.
- A processor of organic foods, feed, fibers or textiles.
- A handler of organic products, for example a broker, packer, wholesaler or distributor.
- A restaurant owner who sells organic fare.
- A retailer who specializes in organic products or organic food.
- A marketer of organic products.
- A brand owner developing organic products.
Who Cannot Get USDA Certified Organic?
Not everyone qualifies for USDA organic certification. First of all, your product needs to meet the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. This list, mandated by the Secretary of Agriculture, tells you which synthetic and non-synthetic substances may or may not be used in your organic production and handling operations.
You may also be exempt or excluded from organic certification based on a number of USDA regulations.
- When is an Organic Farm Exempt from USDA Organic Certification?
- 11 FAQs About Organic Certification Exemption
Is USDA Organic Certification Right for You?
USDA organic certification is an ongoing process that requires dedication. Getting certified means making a long-term commitment to the organic process and it can be time consuming.
For example, did you know that in order to become certified organic you must comply years in advance in some cases? It's true. National Organic Program standards state that organic crops must be grown on land that has been free from prohibited pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers for three years proceeding growth.
There are many other issues to think about as well. Becoming certified organic means considering your entire operational procedure, not just the end product.
How Much Will it Cost to Get Certified Organic?
When the National Organic Program initially launched USDA organic certification, the cost of a single farm becoming certified was estimated at $750 with a sliding scale fee structure in place for other organic operations.
Current certification fees vary wildly depending on the organic certification agent you choose. Be sure each organic certification agent you're speaking with gives you a clear estimate of the fee structure before officially choosing an agent.
There are also programs that can help you pay for the costs of getting certified, as shown below.
