Organic Integrity from Farm to Table Consumers Trust the Organic Label
Announcement
January 23, 2015
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is assisting the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in disseminating its advisory notice on avian influenza, and is reminding producers and certifiers of the National Organic Program (NOP) Policy Memo 11-12 with guidance on biosecurity practices for poultry.
APHIS Avian Influenza Announcement
In December 2014, USDA confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the Pacific flyway. The disease is NOT found in U.S. commercial poultry and there is no public health risk. The HPAI is circulating in wild birds. Some backyard flocks with outdoor access are also being impacted.
Spread the word! To protect backyard/outdoor poultry, follow good biosecurity practices, prevent contact between your birds and wild birds and report sick birds/unusual bird deaths through USDA's toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593.
Now is a good time for organic producers and certifiers to review the APHIS guidelines and ensure adherence to biosecurity practices by reviewing the NOP Policy Memo 11-12. The memo provides information on the confinement of organic poultry flocks due to potential outbreaks of avian influenza. The memo also explains actions certifiers and producers can take to protect organic poultry flocks from infectious disease and maintain organic certification.
USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) facilitates the competitive and efficient marketing of agricultural products. Through its National Organic Program, AMS facilitates trade and ensures the integrity of organic agricultural products by consistently implementing organic standards and enforcing compliance with the regulations throughout the world. Learn more.
About the USDA Organic Insider
The USDA Organic Insider informs the organic community on a wide range of functions, including regulatory updates, requests for public comments, and USDA programs and services.
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