Organic Certification Maze: Choosing the Right Certification Body for Your Project

(Written by Anil M V, 24 years experience, {Bsc. Agric, MBA, CTP}Founder, Organil Services)

In today's world, consumers are increasingly demanding organic products, driven by concerns about health, sustainability, and environmental impact. As a result, businesses operating in the organic sector must obtain certification to meet these demands and assure consumers of the authenticity and quality of their products.

Does Food Products need to be Certified Organic to be sold with Reference Organic

In India, the use of the term "Organic" on food products is regulated by the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP), overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare. According to NPOP regulations, any product labeled as "Organic" must be certified by a certification body accredited by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). These certification bodies ensure that organic products meet the stringent standards set by NPOP, which cover the entire organic production chain, including cultivation, processing, packaging, labeling, and marketing.

Adherence to NPOP standards is crucial not only for domestic sales but also for international trade, as India is a significant exporter of organic products. Certification by accredited bodies under NPOP provides assurance to consumers and trading partners that the products labeled as "Organic" meet recognized organic standards, thereby enhancing consumer trust, facilitating market access, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) enables the sale of organic products within India. PGS certification holds validity domestically and is especially suited for small-scale farmers and local markets. While it may not carry the same international recognition as certifications obtained through the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP) with third-party accreditation, PGS-certified organic products adhere to rigorous standards set by the system. These products can be confidently sold in local markets, direct-to-consumer channels, and other distribution networks across India, provided they meet the established criteria of the PGS certification process.

The requirement to be certified by an accredited certification body in order to use the term "Organic" on food products typically depends on the regulations of respective country or region where the products are being sold. In many places around the world, certification by an accredited body is indeed mandatory to label a product as "Organic." Here's a breakdown:

1. United States: In the United States, the use of the term "Organic" on food products is regulated by the USDA National Organic Program (NOP). Any product labeled as "Organic" must be certified by a USDA-accredited certifying agent. This certification ensures that the product meets the USDA's organic standards.
2. European Union: In the European Union, organic food labeling is regulated under the EU Organic Regulation (EC) No 2018/848. Organic products must be certified by a certification body accredited according to EU regulations. The certification ensures compliance with EU organic standards.
3. Other Countries: Many other countries have their own regulations governing organic food labeling. While specific requirements may vary, certification by an accredited body is often a key component of these regulations to ensure that products labeled as "Organic" meet established standards for organic production.
4. International Trade: For products intended for international trade, adherence to recognized organic standards, often certified by accredited bodies, may be necessary to comply with import regulations in target markets. Certification can facilitate market access by demonstrating compliance with internationally accepted organic standards.

Selecting the right organic certification body is crucial for the success of your project, as it can impact your market access, reputation, and overall business sustainability.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a certification body for your organic project:

1. Accreditation: Ensure that the certification body is accredited by a recognized accreditation body. Accreditation provides assurance that the certification body operates according to international standards and has undergone rigorous evaluation of its competence, impartiality, and integrity. Look for certifications such as ISO 17065, or are accredited by organizations such as the USDA (United States), EU Organic (European Union), or COSMOS (Cosmetic Organic Standard) which is specifically designed for certification bodies in the organic sector.

2. Reputation and Credibility: Research the reputation and credibility of the certification body within the organic industry. Look for feedback from other businesses that have been certified by the body, as well as reviews from industry experts and stakeholders. A certification body with a strong reputation for professionalism, integrity, and reliability will enhance the credibility of your organic project.

3. Expertise and Experience: Evaluate the certification body's expertise and experience in certifying organic products within your specific industry or sector. Consider factors such as the range of products they certify, their understanding of relevant regulations and standards, and their track record in working with businesses similar to yours. An experienced certification body will offer valuable insights and guidance throughout the certification process.

4. Geographic Coverage: Consider the geographic coverage of the certification body and ensure that they are authorized to certify organic products in your target market or markets. If your project involves international trade, choose a certification body with global recognition and presence. This will facilitate market access and ensure compliance with diverse regulatory requirements.

5. Cost and Service Quality: Request detailed information about the certification process, including costs, timelines, and the level of support provided by the certification body. While cost is an important factor, prioritize service quality and value for money. Choose a certification body that offers transparent pricing, efficient processes, and responsive customer service.

6. Alignment with Values and Objectives: Select a certification body that aligns with your organization's values, objectives, and sustainability goals. Consider factors such as the certification body's commitment to environmental protection, social responsibility, and support for organic agriculture. Building a partnership with a certification body that shares your values will strengthen your project's integrity and impact.

7. Continuous Improvement: Inquire about the certification body's approach to continuous improvement and staying updated with evolving industry trends, regulations, and consumer preferences. Choose a certification body that demonstrates a commitment to ongoing learning, innovation, and adaptation to ensure the long-term relevance and effectiveness of your organic certification.

Choosing the right organic certification body is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. By selecting a reputable, accredited, and experienced certification body that aligns with your values and objectives, you can ensure the success and sustainability of your organic project. Invest time and effort in researching and evaluating potential certification bodies to make an informed choice that will benefit your business and satisfy the growing demand for organic products in the marketplace.

Would you need an Organic Certification Regulatory Advisory, Organil Services can be hired to maintain a Robust Organic Systematic Footprint of your Company.