Organic Food Labeling Requirements
Every country has an authority that regulates food labeling requirements. This is done so that the people know what they are getting. In the U.S, the USDA NOP (National Organic Program) is responsible for setting regulations and requirements for organic products.
These regulations apply to products being produced inside the country or being imported for sale in the U.S. Do remember, no one can use the term organic to sell products unless they have been certified.
100% Label Claims
Any company that claims to be 100% organic needs to only use organic ingredients and processing aids. This excludes the use of salt and water. If a company is making this claim then they can’t use any additives. That is the requirement.
On the other hand, companies that use the label of “organic” need to meet certain criteria too. They need to have at least 95% organic ingredients in their products. However, the other 5% of ingredients should include substances that have been allowed by the NOP.
Organic products using these labels need to meet the requirement of not using chemicals, fertilizers, and other pesticides in their products. They need to use organic ingredients and then get certified by the USDA.
“Made With Organic” Label Claims
This is another labeling requirement set out by the USDA NOP. If processed products contain 70% organic ingredients then they need to state the organic ingredients used in the product. This means after the Made With Organic label, they have to state at least three food groups, ingredients, or a combination of both.
For example, if a herb seasoning packet is made of 70% organic ingredients and herbs then the label can claim “Herb seasoning made with organic thyme, rosemary, and oregano.”
In simple terms, organic ingredients need to be mentioned. Apart from that, the product has to follow NOP guidelines and no prohibited substance can be added inside the product. You need to display your organic content if it is at least 70%.
However, you will not be qualified to have a USDA organic seal as that is only done with 100% organic food products.
Organic Product Labelling Requirements
USDA has set out strict guidelines to monitor the production and label requirements of different brands. If you are producing an organic product then it needs the requirements set out by the USDA. These include:
- It needs to be produced without excluded methods
- You can only produce using the allowed substances set out by the NOP
- Production and labeling has to be overseen by a USDA NOP agent
Remember, any use of additives or non-organic practices will not certify you.
Final Words
With this information, you should have a better understanding about labels that use the term “organic”. Remember, not all organic ingredients are nessicary healthy. Food loaded with organic cane sugar might not be a great choice. When in doubt, it’s best to read the list of ingredients.
