What does USDA Organic Mean?

Today’s consumers have more options for buying groceries than ever before. Many health- and eco-conscious shoppers prefer certified organic goods—but if you’ve never looked for this label before, you might have questions about what it means and how these products differ from others. Here’s a closer look at what the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic certification entails, and why it’s worth choosing organic products when possible.

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What are the requirements for USDA Organic labeling?

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The USDA Organic Certification is a label for foods grown and processed in a way that satisfies stringent federal guidelines. It emphasizes biodiversity, ecological balance, and the avoidance of synthetic additives¹.

Several product categories can qualify for USDA organic certification, each with its unique requirements².

Produce and grains must be grown using natural fertilizers and eco-friendly pest and weed control. These goods must also be grown on soil that hasn’t been treated with any prohibited substances for at least three years, such as synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

Meat, dairy, and eggs must be produced by animals that are raised in conditions supporting their natural behaviors, including free outdoor roaming. They must be free of growth hormones or antibiotics, and their feed must also be 100% organic.

Packaged goods must be made without genetically modified organisms (GMOs), have a traceable supply chain from the farm to the store, and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Packaged products may also be labeled “made with organic products” if they contain at least 70% organically produced ingredients, but they won’t have the USDA organic label.

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How does USDA Organic certification work?

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The USDA organic program is a robust standard that represents a commitment to health, sustainability, and ethical farming practices. The label is a registered trademark, and its use is protected by law².

The path to becoming certified is rigorous, and involves several key components¹:

• National Organic Program standards: Farmers and processors must become familiar with The National Organic Program (NOP) and its comprehensive standards covering everything from soil management to animal welfare and processing practices.
• Organic system plan: Applicants must create a plan that explains how their practices will comply with USDA organic standards. This could include descriptions of pest control, crop rotation, handling processes, and livestock management.
• Application and inspection: After an Organic System Plan is developed, applicants submit it for review to a USDA-accredited certifying agent. Thereafter, a specially trained organic inspector will perform an on-site assessment of all fields, facilities, equipment, and applicable records.
• Certification: If all criteria are satisfied, the certifying agent will issue the USDA organic certification. If there are non-compliance issues found, the farmer or processor has the opportunity to address them.
• Ongoing inspections: Inspectors routinely visit organic farms and facilities to ensure standards are consistently being met and proper recordkeeping is being performed. Inspections may be unannounced, so businesses must remain audit-ready.

While the process of acquiring and maintaining USDA organic certification is a significant undertaking, many farm operations and food organizations find that upholding the integrity of the organic label is worthwhile, as it assures consumers that their products can be trusted.What are the benefits of USDA-certified organic products?

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Buying and consuming foods that are USDA-certified organic offers several noteworthy benefits:

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• Chemical-free consumption: Because organic foods are free of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, choosing these products naturally reduces your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. There’s also evidence that organic food is higher in certain nutrients³, including antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Animal welfare: Since farmers must comply with ethical livestock management practices, choosing poultry, meat, and other animal products with the USDA-certified organic seal means you’re supporting better animal health and welfare.
• Environmental sustainability: Organic farming practices prioritize water conservation, soil health, and biodiversity, all of which have a positive impact on our environment. With their eco-conscious choices, organic farmers help preserve ecosystems.
• Support for smaller farm operations: Many organic farms are small, family-run operations. Choosing organic produce and animal products allows you to support small businesses.
• Brand transparency: To maintain USDA organic certification, farmers and processors must maintain transparent recordkeeping and undergo rigorous inspections. When you buy organic, you can trust the authenticity of the product, since the label is backed by enforceable standards.
• Taste and quality: Many people find organic food more appealing than conventionally produced products⁴. They feel that the taste and quality are often superior, which could be due to the absence of synthetic chemicals and the use of healthier soils.

If getting organic food conveniently is important to you, turn to The Rounds for simple and sustainable grocery shopping. Choose the organic products you love, and we’ll deliver them to your door.

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