While the NOP regulations do not include specific processing or manufacturing standards for textile products, raw natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, and flax, are agricultural products and are covered under the National Organic Program crop and livestock production standards.

The NOP does not restrict the use of the term "organic" in the labeling of textile products that are certified under third-party certification bodies as long as all of the fibers identified as "organic" in these textile products are produced and certified according to the NOP regulations. Additionally, textile products that are produced in accordance with the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) may be sold as organic in the U.S. but may not refer to NOP certification or display the USDA organic seal. The NOP labeling requirements are in addition to those required by the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Textile and Wool Acts. Read the full policy memo.