What Is Organic Certification?

Organic certification is an accredited process for producers of organic food and other organic agricultural products.

In general, any business directly involved in food production can be certified, including seed suppliers, farmers, food processors, retailers and restaurants.

The primary purpose and intention of certification is to assure quality and prevent fraud while addressing the growing worldwide demand for organic products.

Organic Certification Standards

The requirements for organic certification vary from country to country and generally involve a set of production standards for growing, storage, processing, packaging and shipping that prohibit the use of synthetic chemicals such as fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics, food additives and genetically modified organisms (GMO’s).

They are assessed against a strict set of Organic Standards that requires the ingredients in food and drinks to be verified as organic before a product can be labeled and sold as “certified organic”.

Farmlands must also be free from chemicals for a number of years, usually 3, and detailed written production and sales records must be kept; there must be an audit trail.

In addition, they also have to undergo periodic on-site inspections.

Why Choose Products With Certified Organic Labeling?

Certified Organic products are grown and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and that’s good for your health and for the planet.

The term “Certified Organic” is not just chemical free by testing. It’s about the way your food is grown and handled from the soil and seed all the way through to the food on your plate.

It is an innovative method of farming and production that’s at the forefront of food and fibre technology into the future.

The Benefits of Organic Food & Farming

Organic systems rely on a modern and scientific understanding of ecology and soil science and use traditional methods of crop rotation for fertility and natural pest control.

Animals and the Environment At all times organic systems and production aim towards sustainability of the environment and wildlife to reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.

Food and People There are now many studies that show the benefits of organic food -- fruit and vegetables contain more vitamins, minerals, nutrients and cancer-fighting antioxidants than non-organic food -- AND organic food tastes better.

No Synthetic Chemicals Organic systems prohibit the use of artificial chemicals, pesticides and fertilisers. They aren’t used on the crops, and animals are never subjected to treatment of synthetic growth hormones or drugs.

Absolutely No GMOs Genetically altered food or organisms of any kind is strictly prohibited during the growing, processing and manufacture of organic food and farming.

Conclusion

Purchasing certified organic products and produce keeps farming sustainable for the future – improving soil, keeping synthetic chemicals and pollutants out of our land, air and waterways and encouraging wildlife and woodlands – which is why it’s the smart choice for the health of you, your family and the planet.

The certified organic badge or logo such as:

• NASAA -- The National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia (Australian and International Organic Certifier),
• ACO (Australian Certified Organic)
• USDA Organic (United States Department of Agriculture National Organic Program)

is the only protection you have as a consumer that the product you are buying is of the highest quality.

When you see a certification number and logo you know there is a seamless chain of information about every step in the life of that product.

So whenever you’re looking to purchase a product always look for a certified organic logo like those listed below.