Organic Certifications

Whole value chain in the process needs to be certified as per organic

Obtaining organic certification for your farm or agricultural business involves a series of steps and adherence to specific organic standards set by certifying organizations or government agencies.

After obtaining the organic certification anyone in the world will be able to trace the product where it comes from to the hand. 

Organic Standards

Organic certification is doing against an organic standard which may be published by a country, region or private institute

Before going for the organic certification it is required to identify the organic standards that apply for the country or region or the standard that the buyer is willing to obtain.

As an example in the United States, the USDA Organic program sets the standards, while the European Union has its own organic regulations. Other countries have their own organic certification authorities and standards.

Organic Certification Bodies

3^rd party accredited certification bodies as per ISO 17065 can carried out the organic certification

In Sri Lanka there are 04 certification bodies registered under National Organic Control unit (NOCU) as accredited certification bodies.

Registered Certification Bodies with NOCU

1.	Control Union Inspection (pvt) Ltd
2.	Mayacert (pvt) ltd
3.	Ind-expo Certification Ltd
4.	Sri Lanka Standard Institution

 

Preparation and Record Keeping

Start maintaining detailed records of your farming practices, including inputs, crop rotation plans, pest and disease management, and livestock management (if applicable).

You'll need to demonstrate compliance with organic standards, and thorough record-keeping is Important.

 

Transition Period:

If your land or operation was not previously managed organically, there is often a transition period during which you must follow organic practices without using prohibited synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms. The length of this transition period can vary.

 

Choose a Certification Body:

Select a reputable organic certification agency or body accredited by the relevant government authority. Ensure they are recognized in your region and have experience with your type of operation.

 

Submit an Application:

Contact the chosen certification body and request an application form. Fill out the application, providing information about your farm or business, including your organic practices, crops, and products.

 

Inspection and Audit:

The certification body will schedule an on-site inspection or audit of your farm or facility. During the inspection, the certifier will assess your compliance with organic standards, review your records, and discuss your organic practices with you.

 

Review and Approval:

After the inspection, the certification body reviews the findings and makes a decision on whether to grant organic certification. If there are any non-compliances, they may require corrective actions.

 

Corrective Actions (if necessary):

If the inspection reveals non-compliance with organic standards, you will be required to implement corrective actions and make necessary changes to meet the standards.

 

Annual Renewal:

Organic certification is typically valid for one year. To maintain certification, you must undergo annual inspections and provide updated records to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

 

Labeling and Marketing:

Once certified, you can label and market your products as "organic" according to the guidelines of the certification body. Proper labeling is essential to maintain consumer trust.

 

Fees:

Be prepared to pay certification fees, which can vary based on the size and complexity of your operation, as well as the certification body you choose.

 

Stay Informed:

Keep up to date with any changes in organic standards or regulations that may affect your certification status.