Organic Integrity from Farm to Table Consumers Trust the Organic Label
Announcement
January 14, 2016
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP) is pleased to announce the final guidance on Substances Used in Post-Harvest Handling of Organic Products is available online. We would also like to highlight an upcoming training opportunity.
AMS-NOP Publishes Final Guidance on Substances Used in Post-Harvest Handling of Organic Products
On January 15, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will publish a Federal Register notice announcing final guidance on the post-harvest handling of organic products for USDA-accredited certifying agents and certified and exempt organic operations.
This final guidance helps certifiers and organic operations determine which substances can be used in post-harvest handling, regardless of whether it occurs on the farm or in a handling (processing) facility. The guidance also clarifies the provisions of the standards for facility pest management, either on-farm or in a handling facility.
By clarifying which substances can be used in post-harvest handling and ensuring the uniform implementation of the USDA organic standards across certifiers, this final guidance supports strong, enforceable standards and protects the integrity of the organic seal. On April 25, 2014, AMS published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the availability of draft guidance on this subject and requesting public comment. This final guidance takes into consideration comments provided on the draft guidance document.
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.
You are receiving this email because you elected to receive selected updates from the Agricultural Marketing Service. You may manage your profile to receive additional updates or unsubscribe at any time by using the links below.
