The Department of Agriculture updated its regulations on Thursday for foods labeled as "organic." The move comes as the agency attempts to combat food fraud as well as increase confidence in its organic seal.
Considered to be one of the biggest updates in organic regulations since 1990, the rule will increase oversight and enforcement organic product labeling.
“Protecting and growing the organic sector and the trusted USDA organic seal is a key part of the USDA Food Systems Transformation initiative,” said Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt.“
As part of the new rule, which goes into effect in March, USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) certification will be required for all imported organic food. In addition, other players in the organic supply chain -- including brokers and traders -- will be required to adhere to NOP protocols as well. The rule also increases the authority for more on-site inspections as well as creating more authority for "more robust recordkeeping, traceability practices, and fraud prevention procedures."
