The Ins and Outs of Certifications
Organic Certifications
The USDA's organic certification signifies that the product has past their test of being organic and for being suitable for organic agriculture. Organic agriculture produces products using methods that preserve the environment and avoid most synthetic materials, such as pesticides and antibiotics. USDA organic standards describe how farmers grow crops and raise livestock and which materials they may use.
The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) supports organic integrity by providing organic certifiers, growers, manufacturers, and suppliers an independent review of products intended for use in certified organic production, handling, and processing. OMRI is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1997.
Minimum risk pesticides are a special class of pesticides that are not subject to federal registration requirements because their ingredients, both active and inert, are demonstrably safe for the intended use. These Web pages provide detailed information for pesticide companies who want to register minimum risk pesticide products.
The National Organic Program is a part of the United States Department of Agriculture. They develop national organic standards and established an organic certification program based on recommendations of the 15-member National Organic Standards Board (NOSB).