Understanding the Nuances: Organic Growers Group Certification vs. IFOAM PGS Group Certification

Organic farming practices have gained widespread recognition for their emphasis on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the production of wholesome, chemical-free food. Organil Services specializing in organic regulatory certification consultancy, it's crucial to delve into the distinctions between two prominent certification approaches – Organic Growers Group Certification and IFOAM PGS Group Certification. In this comprehensive exploration, we aim to shed light on the key differences and implications for organic growers.

Organic Growers group Certification and IFOAM PGS Group Certification are two different types of organic certification systems that aim to provide assurance to consumers and support organic farmers. However, they have some key differences in terms of their principles, processes, and benefits.

?Organic Growers Group Certification (OGGC) is a form of third-party certification that involves an external certification body that audits and verifies the compliance of a group of organic farmers with a set of organic standards. The group of farmers operates an Internal Control System (ICS) that monitors and ensures the adherence of each member to the organic practices and requirements. The certification body issues a certificate to the group as a whole, based on the results of the ICS and the external audit. Organic Growers group Certification is mainly used by smallholder farmers who want to access export markets or domestic markets that require third-party certification.

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Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Sharing certification costs among group members makes it more affordable for individual farmers.
2. Knowledge Sharing: Collaborative efforts facilitate the exchange of best practices and organic farming techniques among members.
3. Community Building: Fosters a sense of community and mutual support among organic growers.

Cons:

1. Coordination Challenges: Effective communication and coordination among group members are essential, which can be challenging in larger groups.
2. Dependency on Group Integrity: The certification status of each farmer is contingent on the collective adherence to organic standards by the entire group.

IFOAM PGS Group Certification (PGSGC) is a form of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) that involves a network of organic farmers, consumers, and other stakeholders who participate in the verification and certification of organic production.

• PGS is based on the principles of trust, social networks, knowledge exchange, and transparency.
• PGS does not rely on external certification bodies, but rather on peer-review and direct feedback mechanisms among the participants.
• PGS is recognized by IFOAM - Organics International as a valid organic guarantee system that can complement or substitute third-party certification.
• PGS is mainly used by smallholder farmers who want to access local markets or niche markets that value participatory and community-based approaches.

Pros:

1. Global Recognition: IFOAM PGS Group Certification is acknowledged globally, enhancing market access for certified products.
2. Empowerment of Farmers: Encourages active involvement and decision-making by farmers in the certification process, fostering a sense of ownership.
3. Credibility: The IFOAM PGS logo enhances consumer trust and confidence in the organic products certified through this system.

Cons:

1. Initial Learning Curve: Farmers may need time to familiarize themselves with the participatory approach, requiring education and training.
2. Resource Intensive: Implementation of PGS may demand additional resources, both in terms of time and training, compared to traditional certification methods.

Some of the main differences between Organic Growers group Certification and IFOAM PGS Group Certification are:?

Aspect Legend for the differentiation

• Organic Growers Group Certification > OGGC
• IFOAM PGS Group Certification >PGSGC

1. | Standards | OGGC Based on national, regional, or international organic standards that are usually set by governments or certification bodies. PGSGC Based on local, national, or international organic standards that are usually set by the PGS network or adapted from IFOAM standards|
2. | Verification | OGGC Based on external audit and inspection by a certification body that follows a predefined sampling and risk assessment method. PGSGC Based on peer-review and participatory assessment by the PGS network that follows a flexible and context-specific method|
3. | Certification | OGGC Based on the decision of the certification body that issues a certificate to the group as a whole. PGSGC Based on the decision of the PGS network that issues a certificate or a label to each individual producer|
4. | Costs | OGGC Usually higher due to the fees charged by the certification body and the administrative costs of the ICS. PGSGC Usually lower fees due to the voluntary and collaborative nature of the PGS network and the reduced administrative costs|

While both Organic Growers Group Certification and IFOAM PGS Group Certification share the common goal of promoting organic farming, they differ in their approaches and scopes. The former emphasizes community collaboration and localized empowerment, making it particularly effective for small-scale farming communities. In contrast, the latter provides a globally recognized framework that prioritizes a participatory approach, ensuring international credibility.

Choosing between these certification models ultimately depends on the specific needs and objectives of the farming community. Whether fostering local collaboration or seeking global recognition, both pathways contribute to the overarching mission of promoting sustainable and organic agriculture.

As the founder of Organil Services our commitment to organic regulatory certification consultancy aligns with the ongoing global efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure the availability of safe, organic products for consumers

"Empowering Smallholder Farmers: Overcoming Agricultural Challenges in Africa"

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Anil M V, Founder, Organil Services

Organil Services are Registered for Organic Regulatory Certification Consultancy and Accreditation Services in the Industry. WhatsApp for a Prepaid Consultancy +91 8606551335 or Email : [email protected].