What Does “Organic” Really Mean? Understanding USDA Organic Standards

The term “organic” is often used to describe food and products, but what does it really mean when something is labeled “organic”? In the United States, the term is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) under its National Organic Program (NOP). Products must meet specific production and labeling standards to be labeled as organic, ensuring that they are grown, produced, and processed in a way that aligns with organic farming principles.

USDA Organic Standards

The USDA sets strict requirements for organic products, covering everything from how the soil is managed to how animals are raised. Organic farms must avoid synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and irradiation to maintain their crops. Additionally, organic livestock cannot be given growth hormones or antibiotics, and they must have access to the outdoors, with a diet consisting of organic feed.

What Makes a Product Organic?

In order for a product to be labeled as organic, it must meet the USDA’s production standards and be certified by an accredited agent. Products labeled as “100% organic” must contain only organic ingredients, while products labeled simply as “organic” must have at least 95% organic ingredients. If a product contains between 70% and 95% organic ingredients, it can be labeled “made with organic ingredients.”

Organic Labeling Integrity

The USDA also regulates the handling and processing of organic products to ensure that their organic integrity is maintained throughout the supply chain. The USDA Organic Seal can only be used on products that meet these standards, and the USDA maintains a database of certified organic operations so consumers can verify the organic status of the products they purchase.

Conclusion

When you see the USDA Organic Seal, you can trust that the product meets stringent regulations for organic production. From soil management to animal welfare, these standards ensure that organic products are produced with a high level of integrity and care for both the environment and consumer health