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USDA Organic Standards Fact Sheet

Background

On October 21, 2002, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) National Organic Program (NOP) standards for food labeled organic went into effect. This standard applies to food grown in the United States or imported from other countries.

When you buy food labeled "organic," you can be sure that it was produced using the strictest organic production and handling standards in the world and certified by a USDA-accredited certifying agent.

The National Organic Standards offer a national definition for the term organic, providing clear and consistent labeling requirements for use of the word. They detail the methods, practices, and substances that can be used in producing and handling organic crops. The standards establish clear criteria for organic labeling, and they specifically prohibit the use of genetic engineering methods, ionizing radiation, and sewage sludge for fertilization.

The National Organic Standards replace a patchwork of different state and private certification standards and are designed to take the confusion out of what the term organic means for consumers.

While all organic food producers must be certified by the USDA, use of the "USDA Organic" seal on products made with at least 95% organic ingredients is voluntary.

What the National Organic Standards Mean for Consumers

The standards ensure that consumers who buy organic foods can know exactly what they are buying (including the exact organic content).

For consumers who are concerned about Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), the National Organic Standards reinforce the fact that organic food is never genetically engineered or modified, and is never irradiated.

The Certification Process

Before a product can be labeled organic, a USDA-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to the supermarket or restaurant must be certified as well.

Labeling Rules

For single-ingredient foods, such as produce, look for a small sticker with the USDA Organic seal on the product or on the sign above the organic produce display. These foods are 100 percent organic.

For foods with more than one ingredient, there are four labeling categories:

1. 100% Organic must be just that—100% organic ingredients.
2. Organic with the USDA seal must contain 95% organic ingredients by weight.
3. Made with Organic Ingredients must contain 70% organic ingredients by weight.
4. Products with less than 70% organic ingredients may list specific organically produced ingredients on the side panel of the package, but they may not make any organic claims on the front of the package.

Look for the name of the government-approved certifier on all packaged products that use organic ingredients. The term "natural" does not mean organic. Neither do other truthful claims, such as "free-range" and "hormone-free." Only food labeled organic has been certified as meeting USDA organic standards.

The USDA Organic Seal

The USDA Organic seal may be used only on products that are 95-100 percent organic. Use of the seal on packaging is strictly voluntary.

What About Organic Foods Imported into the United States?

In addition to ensuring that domestically produced organic products have met the standards, the USDA oversees the entry of qualified organic food products into the United States, thus ensuring all products meet the same stringent standards.