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AnnouncementJanuary 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 On April 25, 2014, AMS published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the availability of draft guidance on this subject and requesting public comment. This final guidance takes into consideration comments provided on the draft guidance document.
 
Preview the Federal Register Notice
View the Response to Comments
Upcoming Training Opportunity
USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) is working with Oregon Tilth to present Technical Service Provider (TSP) and Biodiversity training. This two-day pre-conference event will be held Tuesday, January 19, and Wednesday, January 20 from 8:00am - 5:00pm at the EcoFarm conference. Attendees will learn about requirements for becoming an NRCS Technical Service Provider (TSP) and recent revisions to the Conservation Activity Plan Supporting Transition to Organic (CAP 138).

To learn more, visit: TSP & Biodiversity Training.
About the Agricultural Marketing Service

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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