Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. Proposals must be voted on by the NOSB, to become recommendations to the USDA. 

They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, December 18, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz (ES); Scott Rice, Vice Chair 

(SR); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer; A-dae Briones (ARB)

Absent: Tom Chapman (TC)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Agenda

• Celery powder panel discussion

• 2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

• 2021 Sunsets: Potassium citrate (LD) - discuss 

• 2021 Sunsets: Sodium citrate (LD) - discuss 

• 2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

• 2021 Sunsets: Gelatin (ARB) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Orange pulp, dried (ARB) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (ARB) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB) - discuss

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Celery powder panel discussion. Celery powder is on 205.606 because organic celery powder does 

not have the same level of nitrates as conventional, and the HS is convening a panel to look at this 

issue. Specifically, they are interested in information regarding human health and high nitrates. The 

group discussed the list of potential panelists. Unless there is strong objection, the NOP would like 

to invite the USDA ARS staff member previously identified to participate on the panel and move 

forward with all invitations in early-to-mid January. The HS had suggested a couple of other 

researchers with expertise on nitrates and nitrates, and several members chose to continue looking 

for candidates. The HS Chair feels that they should move forward with the four panelists that have 

already been identified. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD). The lead summarized the uses of calcium citrate. Members 

noted that it’s a benign material, and will seek public comment for the Spring posting. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Potassium citrate (LD). The lead summarized the uses of potassium citrate and 

noted that it is similar to calcium citrate. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Sodium citrate (LD). Sodium citrate is used as an emulsifier in such things as dairy 

products and cheese. The NOSB received little public comment during the last review (2015) on 

salts in general, but there was comment about sodium citrate. A member asked about the 

similarity of the three salts, and if all three salts are needed. Another member added that all three 

salts have unique uses.

• 2021 Sunsets: Gelatin (ARB). The lead summarized the used of gelatin. Gelatin was petitioned in 

2001 and added to the National List. The members accepted the review and will post it for public 

comment. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Orange pulp, dried (ARB). The lead summarized the uses of orange pulp. A previous 

HS recommended removal, but when it went to the full Board, the vote was split, and it ultimately 
was renewed. The Subcommittee will include questions about essentiality and seek information 

about sourcing.

• 2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu; Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB). The lead 

noted that Pacific kombu and wakame are very similar. The group briefly discussed the listings and 

will discuss it further on a future call. 

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

December 4, 2018

2021 Sunsets: Dairy cultures (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Enzymes (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Microorganisms (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Yeast (SE) - discuss

December 18, 2018

Celery powder panel discussion

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Potassium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Sodium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Gelatin (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Orange pulp, dried (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB) - discuss

January 15, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Magnesium sulfate (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Perlite (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Activated charcoal (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (SR) – discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB) - discuss

January 29, 2019

Collagen gel proposal - discuss/vote

2021 Sunsets: Citric acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Lactic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Alginic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: L-Malic acid (ES) - discuss

February 5, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Celery powder (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Calcium chloride (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Potassium iodide (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Ferrous sulfate (TC) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Potassium phosphate (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Fish Oil (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: NVM (TC) - discuss

February 19, 2019 - Last call before proposal submission deadline. 

2021 Sunsets: Ascorbic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Peracetic acid (AB) - discuss
2021 Sunsets: Tocopherols (AB) – discuss

2021 Sunsets: Hydrogen peroxide (AB) - discuss

March 5, 2019

March 19, 2019

April 2, 2019

April 16, 2019 - No call. Public comment webinar

May 7, 2019

May 21, 2019

June 4, 2019

June 18, 2019

July 2, 2019

July 16, 2019

August 6, 2019 

August 20, 2019

September 3, 2019 

September 17, 2019

October 1, 2019 

October 15, 2019

November 5, 2019 

November 19, 2019

December 3, 2019 

December 17, 2019

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Proposal Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS 

sent additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 

21 18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Spr 2019

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 27 18.

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 

18. Response due 11 12 18. TR 

found sufficient 10 02 18

Spr 2019
Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Proposal Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. 

Petition Sufficiency due 5 22 18. 

Petition found sufficient 5 15 18. 

HS requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018. 

TR sent to HS 10 30 18. Response 

due 12 28 18. HS sent additional 

questions to contractor

11 20 2018

01 29 2019

Spr 2019

2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Citric acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Lactic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) ES Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

02 19 “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “
Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) ES Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

02 19 “

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. May 

not request TR, but hold panel 

instead

02 05 “

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

12 18 “
Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Target 

meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17. ON HOLD. 

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC 2011 NOSB recommendation DHA

2011 NOSB recommendation ARA

Pending NOP Approval. Approved for addition to the work 

agenda 01 12 16. ON HOLD pending NOP action. 

TBD

Celery Powder panel ALL Spr 2019

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2019 Fall 2019

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Spring 2019 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment Nov 26, 2018

NOSB – Spring 2019 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2019

NOP - Draft Spring 2019 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 4, 2019

NOP - Post proposals Mar 6, 2019

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2019

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Apr 13, 2019

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 8, 2019

Public comment webinars Apr 16 & 18, 2019

Spring 2019 NOSB meeting - Seattle, WA Apr 24 - 26, 2019
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. Proposals must be voted on by the NOSB, to become recommendations to the USDA. 

They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, December 4, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz (ES); Scott Rice, Vice Chair 

(SR); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Tom Chapman (TC); A-dae Briones (ARB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Agenda

• 2021 Sunsets: Dairy cultures (SE) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Enzymes (SE) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Microorganisms (SE) - discuss

• 2021 Sunsets: Yeast (SE) - discuss

• Adjourn

Discussion

• 2021 Sunsets: Dairy cultures (SE). The lead summarized the use and previous reviews of dairy 

cultures. The group discussed ancillary substances in relation to the substance, and the HS Chair 

provided background information about the NOSB recommendation for review of ancillary 

substances from 2016. The NOP did not implement the recommendation, and without additional 

specific guidance from the NOP, the NOSB was unable to review ancillaries effectively. Going forth, 

the NOSB will note the ancillary substances, but will not review them individually. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Microorganisms (SE). The lead summarized the substance, noting that it is similar to 

dairy cultures but broader in spectrum. A member asked why microorganisms isn’t agricultural and 

listed under Livestock. The lead included a question about additional ancillary substances. 

• 2021 Sunsets: Yeast (SE). The lead summarized the review and noted that the listing includes an 

annotation regarding the use of organic sources.

• 2021 Sunsets: Enzymes (SE). The lead summarized the review, which did not vary much from the 

previous review. 

• Celery Powder panel. TC, HS, and DP would like to further discuss the list of potential panelists. 

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

November 20, 2018

Assign discussion dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals

Pullulan draft proposal (LD) - discuss

Collagen gel TR sufficiency (AB)

December 4, 2018

2021 Sunsets: Dairy cultures (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Enzymes (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Microorganisms (SE) - discuss
2021 Sunsets: Yeast (SE) - discuss

December 18, 2018

Celery powder panel discussion

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Potassium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Sodium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Gelatin (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Orange pulp, dried (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB) - discuss

January 15, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Magnesium sulfate (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Perlite (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Activated charcoal (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (SR) - discuss

January 29, 2019

Collagen gel proposal - discuss/vote

2021 Sunsets: Citric acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Lactic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Alginic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: L-Malic acid (ES) - discuss

February 5, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Celery powder (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Calcium chloride (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Potassium iodide (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Ferrous sulfate (TC) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Potassium phosphate (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Fish Oil (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: NVM (TC) - discuss

February 19, 2019 - Last call before proposal submission deadline. 

2021 Sunsets: Ascorbic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Peracetic acid (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Tocopherols (AB) – discuss

2021 Sunsets: Hydrogen peroxide (AB) - discuss

March 5, 2019

March 19, 2019

April 2, 2019

April 16, 2019 - No call. Public comment webinar

May 7, 2019

May 21, 2019

June 4, 2019

June 18, 2019

July 2, 2019

July 16, 2019

August 6, 2019 

August 20, 2019

September 3, 2019 

September 17, 2019

October 1, 2019 

October 15, 2019

November 5, 2019 
November 19, 2019

December 3, 2019 

December 17, 2019

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Proposal Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS 

sent additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 

21 18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

TBD Spr 2019

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 27 18.

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 

18. Response due 11 12 18. TR 

found sufficient 10 02 18

TBD Spr 2019

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Proposal Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. 

Petition Sufficiency due 5 22 18. 

Petition found sufficient 5 15 18. 

HS requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018. 

TR sent to HS 10 30 18. Response 

due 12 28 18. HS sent additional 

questions to contractor

11 20 2018

01 29 2019

Spr 2019

2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019
Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Citric acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Lactic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) ES Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

02 19 “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) ES Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

02 19 “

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “
Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. May 

not request TR, but hold panel 

instead

02 05 “

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

12 18 “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Target 

meeting
Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17. ON HOLD. 

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC 2011 NOSB recommendation DHA

2011 NOSB recommendation ARA

Pending NOP Approval. Approved for addition to the work 

agenda 01 12 16. ON HOLD pending NOP action. 

TBD

Celery Powder panel ALL Spr 2019

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2019 Fall 2019

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Spring 2019 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment Nov 26, 2018

NOSB – Spring 2019 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2019

NOP - Draft Spring 2019 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 4, 2019

NOP - Post proposals Mar 6, 2019

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2019

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Apr 13, 2019

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 8, 2019

Public comment webinars Apr 16 & 18, 2019

Spring 2019 NOSB meeting - Seattle, WA Apr 24 - 26, 2019
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. Proposals must be voted on by the NOSB, to become recommendations to the USDA. 

They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, November 20, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz (ES); Scott Rice, Vice Chair 

(SR); A-dae Briones (ARB); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Tom Chapman (TC) 

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Agenda

• Assign discussion dates for 2021 sunsets & proposals

• Collagen gel TR sufficiency (AB)

• Pullulan draft proposal (LD)

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Assign discussion dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals 

• Collagen gel TR sufficiency (AB). The Handling Subcommittee submitted some additional questions 

to the TR contractor, and will forward them to the NOP. 

• Pullulan draft proposal (LD). The lead summarized the substance’s uses and noted that it satisfies 

the OFPA criteria, although there is confusion about the classification because it is produced via 

fermentation. The members also discussed alternatives, although there is only one identified 

alternative and it was determined to be synthetic. 

Motion to classify pullulan as non-agricultural, non-synthetic: 

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add pullulan at §205.605(a) 

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR 

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

• Other items. 

o Celery powder sunset review. The lead will add questions to the review, and prior to the 

celery powder panel to be held at the Spring 2019 meeting.

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)
November 6, 2018

Assign remainder of materials.

Celery powder potential panelists invite Clarissa/Devon

November 20, 2018

Assign discussion dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals

Pullulan draft proposal (LD) - discuss

Collagen gel TR sufficiency (AB)

December 4, 2018

2021 Sunsets: Dairy cultures (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Enzymes (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Microorganisms (SE) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Yeast (SE) - discuss

December 18, 2018

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Potassium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Sodium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Calcium citrate (LD) - discuss 

2021 Sunsets: Gelatin (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Orange pulp, dried (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (ARB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Seaweed, Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) (ARB) - discuss

January 15, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Magnesium sulfate (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Perlite (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Activated charcoal (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (SR) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: (SR) - discuss

January 29, 2019

Collagen proposal - discuss/vote

2021 Sunsets: Citric acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Lactic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Alginic acid (ES) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: L-Malic acid (ES) - discuss

February 5, 2019

2021 Sunsets: Celery powder (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Calcium chloride (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Potassium iodide (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Ferrous sulfate (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Potassium phosphate (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Fish Oil (TC) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: NVM (TC) - discuss

February 19, 2019 - Last call before proposal submission deadline. 

2021 Sunsets: Ascorbic acid (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Peracetic acid (AB) - discuss

2021 Sunsets: Tocopherols (AB) - discuss

March 5, 2019

March 19, 2019

April 2, 2019

April 16, 2019 - No call. Public comment webinar

May 7, 2019

May 21, 2019

June 4, 2019
June 18, 2019

July 2, 2019

July 16, 2019

August 6, 2019 

August 20, 2019

September 3, 2019 

September 17, 2019

October 1, 2019 

October 15, 2019

November 5, 2019 

November 19, 2019

December 3, 2019 

December 17, 2019

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Proposal Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS 

sent additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 

21 18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Spr 2019

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 

18. Response due 11 12 18. TR 

found sufficient 10 02 18

Spr 2019

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Proposal Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. 

Petition Sufficiency due 5 22 18. 

Petition found sufficient 5 15 18. 

HS requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018. 

TR sent to HS 10 30 18. Response 

due 12 28 18. HS sent additional 

questions to contractor

Spr 2019
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 29 Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Citric acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 29 “

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Lactic acid 205.605(a) ES N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 29 “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) ES Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

01 29 “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 04 “

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) ES Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

01 29 “
Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05 “

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

01 15 “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 19 “

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. May 

not request TR, but hold panel 

instead

02 05 “

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

02 05? “

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

12 18 “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

12 18 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Target 

meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17. ON HOLD. 

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC 2011 NOSB recommendation DHA

2011 NOSB recommendation ARA

Pending NOP Approval. Approved for addition to the work 

agenda 01 12 16. ON HOLD pending NOP action. 

TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2019 Fall 2019

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Spring 2019 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment Nov 26, 2018

NOSB – Spring 2019 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2019

NOP - Draft Spring 2019 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 4, 2019

NOP - Post proposals Mar 6, 2019

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2019

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Apr 13, 2019

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 8, 2019

Public comment webinars Apr 16 & 18, 2019

Spring 2019 NOSB meeting - Seattle, WA Apr 24 - 26, 2019
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or 

removal from the National List. Proposals must be voted on by the NOSB, to become recommendations to the USDA. 

They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for 

official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz (ES); Tom Chapman (TC); 

Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); A-dae Briones (ARB); Sue Baird (SB) - observer; Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: none

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Agenda

• Discuss celery powder panel panelists (All)

• Review cover sheet responsibilities (LD)

• Debrief from St. Paul (All)

• Assign meeting dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals. 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Celery powder panel panelist. The NOP suggested the name of a USDA scientist to sit on the celery 

powder panel and the group discussed his participation. The HS also discussed other potential 

panelists, and want to insure there’s broad representation including celery powder users,

manufacturers, a researcher on organic celery, and a human health expert.

• Review cover sheet responsibilities (LD). The HS Chair asked that the lead reviewers complete the 

coversheets for the final recommendations for submission to the NOP by November 16.

• Debrief from St. Paul (All). Members discussed outcomes from the Fall 2018 NOSB meeting, 

including a conversation about section 205.606 and commercial availability. The HS is interested in

adding a couple of questions to the petition process for substances that are petitioned for addition 

to 205.606. The NOP noted that guidance document 3011 includes 5 specific questions about 

205.606 items and will verify that incoming petitions address these questions thoroughly. A 

member mentioned that the 2006 NOSB passed a recommendation about commercial availability 

that was not implemented, and will reread it and discuss it on a future call. Members discussed the 

idea that once items are on 205.606, there is less of an incentive to grow organic forms. Although a 

member noted that in the last several years, the 205.606 list has been reduced from approximately

46 substances to 34. 

• Lecithin. A member posed a question to the group about how to move forward with lecithin. There 

are two possibilities: Splitting the listing into two based on the source. (ie. sunflower, soy, etc) or 

if/when a source becomes commercially available in organic form an annotation could be made to 

the current listing. The subcommittee discussed and decided to wait and propose an annotation 

when the time comes.

• Assign discussion dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals. The HS Chair asked that the members 

review their calendars for availability. 

• Other items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes
Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

October 16, 2018 - cancelled for public comment webinar

November 6, 2018

Assign remainder of materials.

Celery powder potential panelists invite Clarissa/Devon

November 20, 2018

Assign discussion dates for 2021 Sunsets & Proposals

Pullulan draft proposal (LD)

Collagen gel TR sufficiency (AB)

December 4, 2018

Steve Ela away

December 18, 2018

January 15, 2019

January 29, 2019

February 5, 2019

February 19, 2019

March 5, 2019

March 19, 2019

April 2, 2019

April 16, 2019 - No call. Public comment webinar

May 7, 2019

May 21, 2019

June 4, 2019

June 18, 2019

July 2, 2019

July 16, 2019

August 6, 2019 

August 20, 2019

September 3, 2019 

September 17, 2019

October 1, 2019 

October 15, 2019

November 5, 2019 

November 19, 2019

December 3, 2019 

December 17, 2019
Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Proposal Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS 

sent additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 

21 18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Spr 2019

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition 

discussio

n doc

Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 

18. Response due 11 12 18. TR 

found sufficient 10 02 18

Spr 2019

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition 

discussio

n doc

Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. 

Petition Sufficiency due 5 22 18. 

Petition found sufficient 5 15 18. 

HS requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018. 

TR sent to HS 10 30 18. Response 

due 12 28 18

Spr 2019

2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD -

ES

N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD -

ES

N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD -

ES

N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD -

ES

Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD -

ES

Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. 

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Target 

meeting
Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17. ON HOLD. 

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC 2011 NOSB recommendation DHA

2011 NOSB recommendation ARA

Pending NOP Approval. Approved for addition to the work 

agenda 01 12 16. ON HOLD pending NOP action. 

TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2019 Fall 2019

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Spring 2019 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment Nov 2, 2018

NOSB – Spring 2019 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2019

NOP - Draft Spring 2019 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 4, 2019

NOP - Post proposals Mar 6, 2019

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2019

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Apr 13, 2019

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 8, 2019

Public comment webinars Apr 16 & 18, 2019

Spring 2019 NOSB meeting - Seattle, WA Apr 24 - 26, 2019
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. Proposals must be voted on by the NOSB, to become recommendations to the USDA. They do not 

represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the NOP website for official NOP policy, 

regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, October 2, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz (ES); Tom Chapman (TC); 

Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); A-dae Briones (ARB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA)

Agenda

• Pullulan TR sufficiency (LD)

• BPA update (LD)

• Discuss public comments (All)

• Review Subcommittee lead assignments for fall meeting (All)

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Pullulan TR sufficiency (LD). The lead summarized the TR, specifically the section about 

classification. The TR was found sufficient. Pullulan is derived from microorganisms and is similar to 

other gums on §205.605. The HS Chair will send an email to NOP declaring the TR sufficient. 

• BPA update (LD). The HS Chair let the HS members know that the work agenda item for BPA would 

be moved from active to inactive, as the program feels this is not a priority for the program. 

Additionally, the NOP is unsure whether or not this falls under the authority of the USDA. There is 

ongoing interest and concern by the public about the use of this material in organic. 

• Discuss public comments (All). The members had a brief discussion of the public comment received 

so far. 

• Review Subcommittee lead assignments for fall meeting (All). Members reviewed their 

assignments for the Fall 2018 meeting.

• Other items

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

Pullulan TR sufficiency (LD)

Discuss public comments (All)

Review Subcommittee lead assignments for fall meeting (All)

October 16, 2018 - cancelled for public comment webinar

November 6, 2018

Celery powder potential panelists invite Clarissa/Devon

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018
Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Proposal Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum 

received 05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 

16. Petition found sufficient 06 07 

16. Sent back to Subcomm at Fall 

2016 meeting. HS requested a TR

06 06 17. TR sent to HS 01 09 18. 

Response due 03 13 18. TR found 

sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Proposal Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS 

sent additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 

21 18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 

17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 

17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Cont

act

Doc type Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Target 

meeting

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Proposal Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition 

discussio

n doc

Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 

18. Response due 11 12 18. TR 

found sufficient 10 02 18

Apr 3

Jul 3

Aug 21

Petition 

discussio

n doc 

Fall 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition 

discussio

n doc

Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. 

Petition Sufficiency due 5 22 18. 

Petition found sufficient 5 15 18. 

HS requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussio

n doc 

Fall 2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Jul 17 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Aug 21 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Jul 17 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Aug 21 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606 LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Target 

meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18. TR due midDec

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. 

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Target 

meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17. ON HOLD. 

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC 2011 NOSB recommendation DHA

2011 NOSB recommendation ARA

Pending NOP Approval. Approved for addition to the work 

agenda 01 12 16. ON HOLD pending NOP action. 

TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, September 18, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz 

(ES); A-dae Briones (ARB); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Tom Chapman (TC)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA)

Agenda

• Review MS doc: Genetic Integrity Transparency of Seed Grown on Organic Land (HB). 

• Review MS doc: Excluded Methods Determinations (HB).

• Verbal update on Gums listing at 205.606 (LD).

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Review MS doc: Genetic Integrity Transparency of Seed Grown on Organic Land (HB). The MS 

Chair summarized the Materials Subcommittee proposal on the genetic integrity transparency of 

seed grown on organic land, for the benefit of the Handling Subcommittee. This topic has gone 

through several iterations. The goal of the proposal is to provide a starting point for producers to 

track the contamination risk through sampling, testing, and documentation, using field corn seed. 

The proposal doesn’t include specific direction to NOP about how to collect data or what form this 

should take. i.e. instructions to certifiers or guidance.

• Review MS doc: Excluded Methods Determinations (HB). The MS Chair summarized the Materials 

Subcommittee proposal on excluded methods, for the benefit of the Handling Subcommittee. She is 

not anticipating controversy, but noted that this could have implications for livestock vaccines. 

• Verbal update on gums listing at 205.606 (LD). The HS sought feedback about the potential for 

removing gums individually from the National List should organic sources become available. The 

NOP indicated that this is possible, and is similar to what the Crops Subcommittee did with removal 

of B1 from the listing for Vitamins B1, C and E.

• Other items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

September 4, 2018 - cancelled

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

Pullulan TR sufficiency (LD)
Discuss public comments (All)

Review Subcommittee lead assignments for fall meeting (All)

October 16, 2018 - cancelled for public comment webinar

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. TR sent to HS 09 12 18. 

Response due 11 12 18.

Apr 3

Jul 3

Aug 21

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Sep 2018

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Jul 17 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Aug 21 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Jul 17 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Aug 21 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606 LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Voted

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. 

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018

Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, August 21, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Tom 

Chapman (TC); Eric Schwartz (ES); A-dae Briones (ARB); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent:

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. 

Apr 3

Jul 3

Aug 21

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Aug 2018

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Jul 17 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Aug 21 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Jul 17 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Aug 21 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606 LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• 2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

• Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• 2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC). The lead summarized FOS, noting that there was 

a lengthy discussion at the Spring 2018 meeting regarding organic availability, essentiality, and 

alternatives. FOS is necessary in baby food and used as a pre-biotic. The lead noted that sugar 

beets, a large percentage of which are genetically modified, are a source for non-inulin derived FOS. 

The NOSB didn’t receive any new comments that would lead the Board to suggest an annotation 

restricting its use. 

Motion to remove Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) at §205.605 

Motion by: TC

Seconded by: LD

 Additional discussion: none

 Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC). The lead summarized the history and uses of flavors. Flavors are widely 

used and were deemed necessary by commenters.

Motion to remove flavors at §205.605 

Motion by: TC

Seconded by: SR
 Additional discussion: none

 Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB). The lead summarized the uses of ethylene gas. There was limited 

public comment during the first posting, and commenters were divided. A member noted the other 

listing of ethylene for Crops, and added that the more controversial uses for ethylene seem to be

around its use for pineapple flowering. 

Motion to remove ethylene from §205.605

Motion by: AB

Seconded by: TC

Additional discussion: none

 Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB). The lead summarized the uses of magnesium stearate. 

The TR didn’t provide any new information, and there were almost no comments from the previous 

Spring posting. A commenter mentioned its international uses, and that it is used only in 

agricultural products ‘made with’ organic. A certifier indicated that they had two clients that are 

currently using it. 

Motion to remove magnesium stearate at §205.605 

Motion by: AB

Seconded by: TC

 Additional discussion: none

 Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Pullulan (LD). The HS continued their previous discussion of the petition discussion document, and 

proceeded to a vote. 

Motion to accept the discussion document on Pullulan 

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: TC

 Additional discussion: none

 Yes: 7 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Other items. 

o L-Malic acid. The HS requested a TR for L-Malic acid

o AB will add additional questions to the collagen gel proposal and forward it to the HS Chair.

o The HS Chair will collect all proposals and discussion documents and forward them to NOP 

in the next day or two. 

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

August 7, 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document
2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

September 4, 2018 - cancelled

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD Y 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD Y 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation. TR 

requested 08/21/18

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. 

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, August 7, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); A-dae Briones (ARB); Asa

Bradman (AB); Tom Chapman (TC); Eric Schwartz (ES); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: None

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Clarissa Mathews (CM)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. 

Apr 3

Jul 3

Aug 21

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18. TR in 

development. Expected Aug 2018

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Jul 17 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Aug 21 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Jul 17 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Aug 21 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606 LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document

• 2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Collagen Gel (casing) (AB). The lead summarized the petition and the discussion document. The 

petitioner is seeking use as an alternative to casings, and other uses for enrobed meat products. 

The petition indicated that the substance contains ancillary ingredients - cellulose powder. The lead 

noted that collagen gel is chemically identical to gelatin. Members discussed questions for public 

comment. 

Motion to accept the discussion document on collagen gel (casing)

Motion by: AB

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 7 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: potassium chloride (ARB). The lead summarized the materials’ uses and the last 

round of public comments, which were unanimously supportive of relisting.

Motion to remove potassium chloride at §205.605 

Motion by: ARB

Seconded by: SE
Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: calcium hydroxide (ARB). The lead summarized the materials’ uses and the public 

comment. Calcium hydroxide has several uses, such as in baking powder, corn tortillas, and infant 

formula.

Motion to remove calcium hydroxide at §205.605 

Motion by: ARB

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: phosphoric acid (ARB). The lead summarized the materials’ uses and the public 

comment. Phosphoric acid is used as a cleaner. The majority of stakeholders supported relisting of 

phosphoric acid, and also urged the Board to find alternatives. 

Motion to remove phosphoric acid at §205.605 

Motion by: ARB

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: lecithin - de-oiled (ARB). The lead summarized the materials’ many uses and the 

public comment. The majority of commenters supported relisting, while also noting the need to 

move to alternatives. The group discussed the need for this material, as soy is an alternative, but 

also considered an allergen. 

Motion to remove lecithin - de-oiled at §205.606

Motion by: ARB

Seconded by: ES

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 7 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0

• Other items. 

o Celery powder panel discussion. Members discussed potential panelists for a panel at the 

Spring 2019 NOSB meeting. The NOSB seeks to have representation from industry, 

science/research community, as well as someone with expertise in human health. The NOP 

will explore potential panelists who have expertise in human health issues surrounding 

nitrates. 

o A member mentioned that there was some discussion in the certifier community about the 

current listing for L-malic acid, and anticipates that the NOSB will receive a petition to move 

its listing to 205.605(b). 

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)
July 17, 2018

Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote 

August 7, 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18. 

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Notes 

Tuesday, July 17, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); A-dae Briones (ARB); Harriet 

Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Asa Bradman (AB); Tom Chapman (TC); Eric Schwartz (ES)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Clarissa Mathews (CM)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. 

Apr 3

Jul 3

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18.

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Jul 17 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Aug 21 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Jul 17 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Aug 21 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(g) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606(k) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606(q) LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Japones pepper (ARB). The petitioner noted that this pepper is unique from others based on heat 

index. The members previously discussed the lack of information regarding supply and quantity. To

glean more information, the Subcommittee requested additional information from the petitioners, 

including whether or not they have approached growers about growing enough organic supply for 

them. The HS felt that the response did not provide enough clarity and hope to gather public 

comment and input from the rest of the NOSB.

Motion to classify japones pepper as agricultural

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: ARB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 4 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add japones pepper at §205.606 

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 2 No: 2 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0
• Ethiopian pepper (ARB). The group discussed supply and wild crop certifications, which they 

previously asked the petitioner about. The petitioners provided a little more detail for Ethiopian 

pepper than for japones pepper. Ethiopian pepper is grown in West Africa, and is harder to source. 

A member reminded the group to align the review with the OFPA criteria. 

 

 Motion to classify Ethiopian pepper as agricultural

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: AR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 4 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add ethiopian pepper at §205.606 

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: ARB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 2 No: 2 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR). Calcium carbonate has many common uses, and it also used 

as a dietary supplement. It has been on the National List since the list was initiated. The HS 

requested a new TR for this material which identified some human health and environmental 

concerns. A member noted that these concerns are mitigated by the use of protective equipment, 

and there is wide support for continued use. 

Motion to remove calcium carbonate at §205.605(a)

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR). The lead summarized the uses for potassium carbonate. 

The NOSB received public comment during the spring meeting in support of retaining potassium 

carbonate, noting that it is still in use. 

Motion to remove potassium carbonate at §205605(b)

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0

• Other items. 

The HS is waiting for some feedback from the ACA about pullulan. SR will reach out to them and 

 follow up. 

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes
Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

July 3, 2018

2020 Sunsets: oxygen, glycerides: mono and di (LD) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Alginates (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

2020 Sunsets: Sulfur dioxide (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

Pullulan (LD) - discuss petition discussion document

Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

July 17, 2018

Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

August 7, 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018
Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LD? N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, July 3, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Eric Schwartz (ES); A-dae Briones 

(ARB); Tom Chapman (TC); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Asa Bradman (AB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

Petition addendum 

#2

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 06 29 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. 

Apr 3

Jul 3

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18.

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Aug 7 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jul 17 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Aug 7 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 17 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(g) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606(k) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606(q) LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• 2020 Sunsets: oxygen, glycerides: mono and di (LD) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: alginates (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

• 2020 Sunsets: sulfur dioxide (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

• Pullulan (LD) - discuss petition discussion document

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• 2020 Sunsets: Oxygen. The lead gave a brief overview of oxygen. 

Motion to remove oxygen at §205.605

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 5 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: Glycerides: mono and di (LD). The lead summarized the uses of glycerides. They are

used in food processing, specifically drum drying. The HS added some questions to the review. 

Motion to remove glycerides: mono and di at §205.605

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: None

 Yes: 0 No: 6 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: alginates (SE). The lead summarized alginates, which are used as a thickener. Public 

comments were favorable, and supported relisting. There were some comments about seaweed 
sources and wild harvesting rules, but at this time the NOSB feels that would be addressed in the 

marine materials project. 

Motion to remove alginates at §205.605(b)

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 6 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• 2020 Sunsets: sulfur dioxide (SE). The lead gave a brief summary of sulfur dioxide. 

Motion to remove sulfur dioxide at §205.605

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: ES

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 6 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Pullulan (LD). The TR is due back in early August, which may not allow enough time for the 

Subcommittee to develop a proposal for the Fall meeting. If not, the HS will produce a petition 

discussion document to solicit feedback. Members discussed the substance, including the 

classification based on the new decision tree. The new classification guidance indicates it is nonagricultural/non-synthetic, although there was some initial disagreement and uncertainty. The HS 

will include several questions in the petition discussion document. SR will follow up with the 

Accredited Certifiers Association (ACA) working group.

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC). The lead summarized the substance’s uses, production processes, 

human health concerns, mode of action, and need. The group discussed the petition addendum #2, 

noting the petitioner’s comments about the TR being too general and not addressing their petition 

specifically. Members also discussed unintended uses of silver dihydrogen citrate, beyond what the 

petitioner is asking for, and will address that in the proposal. TC will make some minor 

modifications to the proposal, however the group felt it would not affect the voting. 

Motion to classify silver dihydrogen citrate as synthetic

Motion by: TC

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 5 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add silver dihydrogen citrate, annotated, limited to particulate sizes greater than 300nm,

at §205.605

Motion by: TC

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 5 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

• Other items. None

• The meeting was adjourned
Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

June 19, 2018

Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews

2020 Sunsets: gellan gum, xanthan gum, gums: arabic, carob bean, guar, locust bean, tragacanth

July 3, 2018

2020 Sunsets: oxygen, glycerides: mono and di (LD) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Alginates (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

2020 Sunsets: Sulfur dioxide (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

Pullulan (LD) - discuss petition discussion document

Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

July 17, 2018

Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) - discuss proposal/vote

Pullulan (LD) - Continued discussion of petition discussion document

August 7, 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018
Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LS N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, June 19, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Eric Schwartz 

(ES)

Absent: A-dae Briones (ARB); Tom Chapman (TC)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jul 3

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jul 17

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18. 

Apr 3

Jul 3

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18.

May 15

Aug 7

Petition 

discussion 

doc Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Aug 7 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jul 17 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jul 3 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Aug 7 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Aug 7 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Aug 21 “

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 3 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Aug 21 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Aug 7 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Aug 7 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Jul 3 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jul 17 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(g) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606(k) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Aug 7 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606(q) LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews

• Research priorities discussion (ALL) 

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

• 2020 Sunsets (LD) - gellan gum, xanthan gum, gums: arabic, carob bean, guar, locust bean, 

tragacanth

• Celery powder technical panel (ALL) - update from Executive call 

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews. See table above.

• Research priorities (RPs) discussion (ALL). A member suggested that there be more coordination 

between the NOSB and the organic community with regard to research priorities. HS has three 

previous priorities: chlorine materials, celery powder and BPA. 

o Chlorine materials. Sanitizers have been approved for the MS work agenda, which may 

encompass chlorine, but members suggested keeping this on the research priorities for 

now. 

o Celery powder. The HS is working on a review of celery powder and is discussing a panel. 

The HS would like to keep it on research priorities list.

o BPA. The group discussed research components vs. manufacturing/production issues. A 

member noted that currently the canning and food-handling community is already looking 

at alternatives, however, keeping it on the RPs keeps it visible.

o New priorities. No new priorities were identified.

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC). Deferred to next call.

• 2020 Sunsets (LD) 
o Gellan gum. The lead summarized the uses and previous public comment.

Motion to remove gellan gum at §205.605

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 1 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

o Xanthan gum. The lead summarized the uses and previous public comment. Xanthan gum 

is commercially available to the public for baking. Commonly used along with other gums. 

Manufacturers and industry were supportive of retaining this on the list. 

Motion to remove xanthan gum at §205.605(b)

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 1 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

o Gums: arabic, carob bean, guar, locust bean. The lead summarized the uses and previous 

public comment. Commenters discussed insufficiencies in organic supply. The group would 

also like to explore the possible removal of one of the gums. NOP indicated that the gums 

can be reviewed individually, much like the Livestock Subcommittee’s review of the 

vitamins, in which they removed one (B1) of the three. 

Motion to remove gums: arabic, carob bean, guar, locust bean at §205.606

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SR

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 1 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

o Tragacanth. The lead summarized the uses and previous public comment. Tragacanth is 

used in high-acid products like salad dressings. The HS didn’t receive much public comment

during the first posting. The lead noted that it is being reviewed early, as part of the sunset 

reorganization. Previous comments indicated that there was a manufacturer using this, and 

the HS is anticipating public comment for the fall meeting. 

Motion to remove tragacanth at §205.606

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 4 Abstain: 1 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

• Celery powder technical panel (ALL). Update from Executive call. The NOP reached out to OTA,

who had convened a panel on celery powder, asking for recommendations for panelists. The NOP 

will pass along the list when it is received. A member noted a contact at the University of 

Wisconsin.

• Other items. None
• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

June 5, 2018

Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal/vote

June 19, 2018

Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews

2020 Sunsets: gellan gum, xanthan gum, gums: arabic, carob bean, guar, locust bean, tragacanth

July 3, 2018

2020 Sunsets: oxygen, glycerides: mono and di (LD) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Alginates (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

2020 Sunsets: Sulfur dioxide (SE) - discuss proposals/vote

Pullulan (LD) - discuss petition discussion document

Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

July 17, 2018

Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

2020 Sunsets: Flavors (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) - discuss proposal/vote

August 7, 2018

Collagen Gel (casing) (AB) - discuss petition discussion document

2020 Sunsets: Calcium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium carbonate (SR) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Potassium chloride (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Calcium hydroxide (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Phosphoric acid (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - discuss proposal/vote

August 21, 2018

2020 Sunsets: Ethylene (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

2020 Sunsets: Magnesium stearate (AB) - discuss proposal/vote

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LS N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, June 5, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Tom Chapman (TC); Asa

Bradman (AB); A-dae Briones (ARB)

Absent: Eric Schwartz (ES)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jun 19

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jun 19

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Jun 19

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18

Apr 3 TBD

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18.

May 15

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Jun 19 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Jun 19 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

“

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

“

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Jun 19 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

“

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

“

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

“

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Jun 19 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Jun 19 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal/vote

• Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal/vote

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

• Celery Powder (All)- discuss technical panel vs TR

• Assign call dates for all work agenda items

• Other items 

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR). The lead 

summarized the material and the group discussed potential human health concerns and 

essentiality. The lead noted that when it is used as labeled and allowed to degrade, there is little 

hazard, but the potential for toxicity remains. (Category 2 of the criteria). The HS proceeded to a 

vote on the proposal. SR and AB will add some additional language as agreed upon by 

Subcommittee members. 

Sodium chlorite was classified as non-agricultural, synthetic during a previous NOSB review. 

Motion to add sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas at §205.605(b)

Motion by: SR

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Tamarind seed gum (SE). The lead summarized the material. The petitioner indicated that 

tamarind seed gum has specific uses that other gums don’t, and supply of organic tamarind seed 

gum is not adequate. A member noted that tamarind seed gum is similar to guar gum and 
questioned whether adding this substance to §205.606 will drive the market to produce organic 

tamarind in sufficient quantities.

Motion to classify tamarind seed gum as non-agricultural, non-synthetic 

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add tamarind seed gum at §205.606

Motion by: SE

Seconded by: LD

Additional discussion: None

Yes: 6 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 Recuse: 0

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC). Deferred to next call. 

• Celery Powder (All). The group discussed the pros and cons of convening an expert panel or 

requesting a TR for celery powder. Celery powder is a complex issue, and one that is currently being 

researched, so most members and NOP felt that a panel would be the best resource. A member 

noted that OTA had convened a working group under an Organic Research and Extension 

Initiative(OREI) grant to study celery powder. The NOP will reach out to OTA regarding potential 

panelists. The HS feels that the panel needs to include a diverse group of stakeholders, including a 

manufacturer of celery powder, in order to be successful. The NOSB is discussing the use of panels 

as a cost-effective way to glean the additional information required for substance reviews, and 

piloting this process for a sunset review, as opposed to a petition, would be less risky. Timeline: 

Spring meeting if possible. 

• Assign call dates for all work agenda items. LD volunteered to complete all of her sunset reviews 

on June 19. Other reviews will be assigned during a later call. 

• Preliminary petition discussion document. The NOSB is piloting a process by which it will post a 

preliminary discussion document for petitioned materials while awaiting a TR. This would allow the 

Board members who are not on a Subcommittee to get involved earlier in the process, and would 

also allow the Board to get feedback from the public sooner. The HS will pilot this process with 

pullulan and collagen.

• Other items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

May 15, 2018

Silver dihydrogen citrate (SR) - discuss proposal, vote

Collagen gel - assign lead

Discuss requests for TRs for 2021 sunsets

Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal

June 5, 2018
Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal/vote

June 19, 2018

Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews

Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal/vote

Japones pepper, Ethiopian pepper (ARB) - discuss proposals/vote

All Sunsets (LD) - gellan gum, oxygen, glycerides: mono and di, xanthan gum, gums: arabic, carob 

bean, guar, locust bean, tragacanth

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment TBD

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

New NOSB member training July 18, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LS N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, May 15, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Tom Chapman (TC); Asa 

Bradman (AB)

Absent: A-dae Briones (ARB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. TR

found sufficient 05 15 18.

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

May 15

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Jun 5

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18

Apr 3 TBD

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 AB Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition 

Sufficiency due 5 22 18. Petition

found sufficient 5 15 18. HS 

requested TR 5 15 18.

May 15

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

“
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

“

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

“

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

“

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

“

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

“

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

“

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

“
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) TR sufficiency

• Discuss requests for TRs for 2021 sunsets (All)

• Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews/votes & all other proposals coming forward to the fall 

meeting 

• Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - discuss proposal

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - TR sufficiency. The HS found the TR sufficient. The group had a 

conversation regarding the differences between the TR contractor template and the materials 

review template that the NOSB uses when reviewing materials. The NOSB is interested in making

these documents more uniform to facilitate review. The HS discussed nanotechnology with regard 

to this petition, and the NOP will follow up on some questions.

• Collagen gel (AB). The lead summarized the petition, noting that casings are similar and are already 

on the list, and gelatin is approved for use as well. The lead noted that this substance is noncontroversial and straight forward. The HS chose to request a TR.

• TRs for 2021 sunsets (All). See table below for list of materials for which the HS would like to 

request TRs. The NOP will cross reference links on the website for the following: microorganisms, 

vitamins, gums, marine materials, and phosphates.

• Assign call dates for 2020 sunset reviews/votes & all other proposals coming forward to the fall 

meeting - deferred to next call.

• Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR). Deferred to next call. The HS will 

review questions for public comment regarding use and demand.

• Other items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes
Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

May 1, 2018 - cancelled

May 15, 2018

Silver dihydrogen citrate (SR) - discuss proposal, vote

Collagen gel - assign lead

Discuss requests for TRs for 2021 sunsets

Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal

June 5, 2018

Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal

Silver dihydrogen citrate (TC) - discuss proposal

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Fall 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment May 18, 2018

NOSB Request for TRs for 2021 sunset materials Jun 6, 2018

NOP - Draft Fall 2018NOSB meeting tentative agenda Aug 9, 2018

NOSB - Fall 2018 proposals due to NOP Aug 23, 2018

NOP - Post proposals On or before Sep 5, 2018

Public comment closes Oct 4, 2018

Discuss/finalize work agendas on ES call Oct 12, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Oct 8, 2018

Public comment webinars Oct 16 & 18, 2018

Fall 2018 NOSB meeting - St. Paul, MN Oct 24-26, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE N 1995 TAP

See 2014 TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD N 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR N 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC N 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE N 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR N 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LS N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC N 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB N 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB N 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC N 1995 TAP

Phosphates TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR N 2001 TAP

2010 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB Y None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC N 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB Y 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

HS requested TR 05 15 18 -

combined with collagen gel and 

casings TR

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB N None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB N None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, April 3, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); A-dae Briones (ARB); Tom 

Chapman (TC) ; Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Asa Bradman (AB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. Revised TR sent to HS 02 21 

18. Response due 04 23 18. 

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018. TR sent to HS 03 12 18. Suff 

due 05 11 18. TR found suff 04 03 

18.

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18. Petition 

found suff 04 03 18. HS requested 

TR 04 03 18

Apr 3 TBD

Collagen Gel (casing) §205.606 Petition sent to HS 03 23 18. Petition

Sufficiency due 5 22 18
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 20 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017. TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting. Moved to MS 

for completion 04 03 18.

TBD

Magnesium chloride

reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. Voted 02 06 18

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Assign leads to 2021 Sunsets (All) 

• Tamarind Seed Gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

• Pullulan petition sufficiency (LD) 

• Other items – marine materials moved to MS. LS and EO will be working on this within MS

• Adjourn

Discussion
• Assign leads to 2021 Sunsets (All). See table below

• Tamarind Seed Gum. The TR was found sufficient. The lead noted that it was well written, and 

answered all the questions that the HS had. 

• Pullulan petition sufficiency (LD). Pullulan is a material that is already in use: in vegetarian capsules

used in “made with organic” supplements. After the classification guidance was published, it was 

deemed not agricultural anymore. If that is case then it needs to be on 605(a). The HS found the 

petition sufficient and will request a TR.

• Other items. Marine materials was moved to the Materials Subcommittee. LD and EO will be 

working on this in the Materials Subcommittee.

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018 - cancelled

April 3, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

Pullulan (LD) - petition sufficiency 

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - discuss proposal

April 17, 2018 – cancelled. NOSB public comment webinar. 

May 1, 2018 - cancelled

May 15, 2018

Silver dihydrogen citrate (SR) - discuss proposal, vote

Collagen gel - assign lead

Discuss requests for TRs for 2021 sunsets

Sodium chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas proposal discussion (SR) - discuss 

proposal

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - discuss proposal

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018
Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) LD 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) TC 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) LD 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) SE 1995 TAP

See TR for microorganisms

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) SE 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) LD 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) LD 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) SR 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) SE 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) SR 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) TC 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) SE 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) SR 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) LD 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) LS 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) TC 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) AB 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) TC 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) AB 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) LD 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) TC 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) SR 2001 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) LD 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) AB 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 AB None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Fish oil 205.606 TC 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 ARB 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 ARB None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 ARB None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 ARB None. See TR for marine materials

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, March 6, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Asa Bradman (AB); Tom Chapman (TC); Steve 

Ela (SE); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer; Jesse Buie (JB) - observer

Absent: A-dae Briones (ARB)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18. TR found sufficient 03 06 18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. TR sent to HS 02 21 18. 

Response due 04 23 18. HS sent 

additional questions to the TR 

contractor 03 06 18. Waiting for 

response. 

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Mar 6

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 17

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Apr 3

Fall 2018

Pullulan 205.605(a) LD Petition sent to HS 02 27 18/ 

Sufficiency due 04 30 18

Apr 3 TBD
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 20 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017, TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting

TBD

Magnesium chloride

reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. Petitioned. Voted 02 06 18

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Approve February 20, 2018 notes

• Sodium chlorite (SR)

• Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

• Pullulan petition - assign lead 

• Discuss 2021 Sunsets (All) 

• Other items

• Adjourn
Discussion

• HS Notes from February 20, 2018 were approved with a couple of changes to dates, and lead 

reviewer initials.

• Sodium chlorite (SR). The HS found the TR sufficient, as it addressed questions that both the Board 

and public commenters had. The Chair will alert the NOP as to sufficiency. 

• Tamarind seed gum (SE). Awaiting TR. Rescheduled discussion to April 3

• Pullulan petition. The HS Chair will lead the review.

• Discuss 2021 Sunsets (All). The 2021 sunset materials have been added below. The HS will assign 

leads on the next call, and will discuss the deadline for TR requests.

• Other Items. 

o The Crops and Handling proposals for marine materials will be combined and Handling will 

bring the document forward. 

o The HS canceled the March 20 call

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

February 20, 2018

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal/update 

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (LD) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (LD) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (LD) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018 - cancelled

April 3, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

Pullulan (LD) - petition sufficiency 

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) discuss proposal

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018
November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Enzymes 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) 2001 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Fish oil 205.606 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, February 20, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Asa Bradman (AB); Tom Chapman (TC); A-dae 

Briones (ARB); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer; Jesse Buie (JB) - observer

Absent: Steve Ela (SE)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Devon Pattillo (DP)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Mar 6

Fall 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) TC Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17. TR under 

revision. TR sent to HS 02 21 18. 

Response due 04 23 18. 

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Fall 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Mar 6

Fall 2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found suff 02 20 18

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) LD N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) ARB N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) ARB N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18. TR 

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) ARB N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 20 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) LD Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18.

TR found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 LD Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18. TR

found sufficient 02 20 18.

Feb 20 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017, TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting

TBD

Magnesium chloride

reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. Petitioned. Voted 02 06 18

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Approve February 6, 2018 notes

• Reassignment of Joelle’s assignments

• 2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

• 2018 Gums TR (LD) - TR sufficiency 

• 2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (LD) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (LD) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (LD) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (LD) - Discuss review

• 2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

• BPA (AB) – Discuss & vote 

• Sodium Chlorite (SR) – TR sufficiency, draft proposal discussion (?) 

• Marine Materials (SR) - Update on status 

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• HS Notes from February 6, 2018 were approved by the Subcommittee with minor changes.
• Materials reassignment.

o AS’s materials were reassigned to ARB

o Joelle Mosso resigned due to time commitments and conflicts with a new position. She 

completed her sunset reviews prior to her departure, and the HS Chair reassigned her 

materials to others. 

• 2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR). The HS requested a new TR for this substance, and found it 

sufficient. The HS Chair will send confirmation of sufficiency to the NOP. 

• 2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR). The HS will submit the review to the NOP for posting for 

the Spring NOSB meeting. 

• 2018 Gums TR (LD). The TR was deemed sufficient and the HS Chair will send confirmation of 

sufficiency to the NOP.

• 2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (LD). The HS added one question to their review of gellan gum for public 

comment, and will submit the document for posting for the Spring NOSB meeting. 

• 2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean, Tragacanth gum (LD). The HS added a 

question to the review document about organic alternatives, and will submit the document for 

posting for the Spring NOSB meeting. 

• 2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (LD). The HS added a question to the review document about organic 

alternatives, and will submit the document for posting for the Spring NOSB meeting. 

• 2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (LD). Discussed with other gums.

• 2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB). The lead will modify the summary with some additional 

information from the technical report. The HS found the TR sufficient and the HS Chair will send 

confirmation of sufficiency to the NOP.

• BPA (AB). HS will defer this project to the Fall 2018 meeting.

• Sodium Chlorite (SR). TR sufficiency, discussion. Deferred to next call.

• Marine Materials (SR) - Update on status. Deferred to next call. The HS will combine this document 

with the Crops version, and send it to the Materials’ Subcommittee for completion. 

• Other Items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

February 6, 2018

BPA (AB) - Discuss

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) - Discuss

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

February 20, 2018

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal/update 

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (LD) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (LD) - Discuss review
2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (LD) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

March 6, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Substance National 

List §

ContactTR request?Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Meeting

Alginic acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

Summary: 

Spr 2019 

Review: 

Fall 2019

Calcium chloride 205.605(a) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Citric acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Dairy cultures 205.605(a) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Enzymes 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Lactic acid 205.605(a) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

L-Malic acid 205.605(a) 2003 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a) 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Microorganisms 205.605(a) 2014 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Perlite 205.605(a) 1996 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium iodide 205.605(a) 2011 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Yeast 205.605(a) 2014 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Activated charcoal 205.605(b) 2002 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Calcium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
2021 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2018, Summary: Spr 2019, Review: Fall 2019

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b) 1995 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b) 2015 Hydrogen Peroxide (Crops)

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Nutrient vitamins 

and minerals

205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Peracetic acid 205.605(b) 2016 TR

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Potassium 

phosphate

205.605(b) 1995 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b) 2001 TAP

2015 NOSB Recommendation

“

Sodium citrate 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Tocopherols 205.605(b) 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Celery powder 205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Fish oil 205.606 2015 TR

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Gelatin 205.606 2002 TAP

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Orange pulp, dried 205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Pacific 

kombu

205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“

Seaweed, Wakame 

(Undaria 

pinnatifida)

205.606 None

2017 NOSB Recommendation

“
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Asa Bradman (AB); Steve Ela (SE); A-dae Briones (ARB); Harriet Behar (HB)

- observer; Jesse Buie (JB) - observer

Absent: Tom Chapman (TC); Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Joelle Mosso (JM)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA) 

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Feb 20

Spr 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) JM Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Fall 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

development - expected March 

2018

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Mar 6

Fall 2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) JM N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) AS N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) AS N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. TR sent to HS 

01 29 18. Suff due 03 30 18

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) AS N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 20 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) JM N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) JM Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting. TR sent to 

HS 01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18

Feb 20 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 JM Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting. TR sent to HS 

01 30 18. Suff due 04 02 18

Feb 20 “
Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017, TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

TBD

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. TBD

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting

TBD

Magnesium chloride

reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. Petitioned. Voted 02 06 18

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Approve January 16, 2018 notes

• Reassign AS’s sunset materials - (LD)

• Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) - Discuss & vote

• BPA (AB) - Discuss

• 2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

• Sodium Chlorite petition sufficiency (SR) - Discuss & decide on sufficiency

• Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal/update 

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• HS Notes from January 16, 2018 were approved with no changes

• Sanitizers (HB). The HS Chair asked for feedback about potential sources for technical information

to aid in development of the sanitizers work agenda item. 

• Reassign AS’s sunset materials (LD). The HS Chair will reassign substance reviews from AS to 

current HS members, and asked for volunteers.

• Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD). The group briefly discussed the reclassification of 

magnesium chloride and moved to a vote. The Handling Subcommittee proposes the removal of 

the annotation “derived from seawater” since there are multiple sources from which non-synthetic 

magnesium chloride can be derived.
Motion to reclassify magnesium chloride as non-synthetic and move its listing from 605(b) to 605(a)

Motion by: LD

Seconded by: SE 

Additional discussion: 

Yes: 4 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 3 Recuse: 0 

• BPA (AB). The Handling Subcommittee found the TR sufficient, and the HS Chair will communicate 

that to the NOP. The lead author will make some modifications based on the group’s conversation 

and recirculate the draft document for further discussion.

• 2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR). Deferred to next call

• Sodium Chlorite petition sufficiency (SR). Deferred to next call

• Marine Materials (SR). Deferred to next call

• Other Items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

January 16, 2018

SDBS (SR) - Discuss/vote

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency

2020 sunset: Lecithin - de-oiled (AB) - Discuss review

February 6, 2018

BPA (AB) - Discuss

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) - Discuss

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

February 20, 2018

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal/update 

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

March 6, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018
June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, January 16, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Joelle Mosso (JM); A-dae Briones 

(ARB); Harriet Behar (HB) - observer

Absent: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Tom Chapman (TC)

Staff: Devon Pattillo (DP); Michelle Arsenault (MA) 

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17. TR sent 

to HS 01 09 18. Response due 03 13 

18.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Feb 6

Spr 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) JM Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Spr 2018

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

contracting. 

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Feb 20

Spr 

2018/Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) JM N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) AS N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) AS N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) AS N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 6 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) JM N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) JM Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting.

Feb 20 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 ARB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 JM Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting.

Feb 20 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

Discussion doc 

Spr 2018
Other projects

handling - including 

BPA

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017, TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. Spr 2018

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting

TBD

Magnesium chloride

Reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. 

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Approve January 2, 2018 notes

• SDBS (SR) - Discuss/vote

• Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency

• 2020 sunset: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - Discuss review

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• HS Notes from January 2, 2018 were approved with no changes.

• SDBS (SR). The lead reformatted the review after the last call, using the updated form. The group 

discussed various sections of the document, including impacts on human health and potential 

impurities, such as lead and arsenic. The Subcommittee determined that SDBS is not essential, as 

there are alternatives available. A member raised a concern about the essentiality criteria with 

regard to sanitizers, given that food safety and sanitizers fall under the purview of several other 

agencies, such as FDA.

Motion to classify sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) as petitioned as synthetic/nonagricultural

Motion by: SR

Seconded by: ARB

Additional discussion: none

Yes: 5 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add Sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) as petitioned at §205.605(b)

Motion by: JM

Seconded by: SE
Additional discussion: None

Yes: 0 No: 5 Abstain: 0 Absent: 2 Recuse: 0

• Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR). The TR was sent to the Handling 

Subcommittee on January 9, and members discussed it briefly. The group discussed the human 

health issues around chlorine gas, as well as alternatives. The group will continue to discuss this 

substance and determine TR sufficiency on the next call. 

• 2020 sunset: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB). The lead summarized the use of the material and the 

previous reviews. She made the distinction between forms of lecithin, noting that this review is for 

the de-oiled, dry form only. She noted there was very little information about manufacturing 

processes. The lead encouraged the group to reread the last review, as the NOSB vote was split. 

• Other Items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

January 2, 2018

SDBS (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Ethylene (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Flavors (TC) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - Discuss review

January 16, 2018

SDBS (SR) - Discuss/vote

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency

2020 sunset: Lecithin - de-oiled (ARB) - Discuss review

February 6, 2018

BPA (AB) - Discuss

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) - Discuss

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - TR sufficiency, discuss draft 

proposal

February 20, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency (if available)

2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018
June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018

July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018
Note: Subcommittee notes may include preliminary discussions regarding substances considered for addition to or removal 

from the National List. They do not represent official National Organic Program (NOP) policy or regulations. Please see the 

NOP website for official NOP policy, regulations, and status of substances used in organic production and handling.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)

Handling Subcommittee (HS) Meeting Notes 

Tuesday, January 2, 2018 1:00 pm ET

Present: Lisa de Lima (LD), Chair; Scott Rice, Vice Chair (SR); Steve Ela (SE); Asa Bradman (AB); Joelle Mosso 

(JM); Tom Chapman (TC); Harriet Behar (HB)

Absent: Michelle Arsenault (MA); A-dae Briones (ARB)

Staff: Devon Pattillo (DP), Lisa Brines (LB)

Work Agenda

Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Sodium 

dodecylbenzene 

sulfonate (SDBS)

Petition Addendum 

#1, SDBS (PDF)

205.605(b) SR Y Petition sent to HS on 11 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 01 04 

16. Petition found suff 12 01 15. No 

new TR will be requested. Referred 

back to HS at Apr 2016 NOSB 

meeting. TR request sent 05 18 16. 

TR in development - Expected late 

Dec 2016/early Jan. TR delayed until 

Spring 2017. TR sent to HS 05 30 17. 

Response due 08 01 17. Petition 

addendum sent to HS 07 12 17. The 

HS found the petition addendum

suff 08 01 17

Aug 1, 

Aug 15

Jan 2

Spr 2018

Sodium Chlorite for 

the generation of 

chlorine dioxide gas

Petition, Addendum 

205.605 SR Y Petition for chlorine dioxide dry gas 

sent to HS on 12 02 15. 

Response/request for TR due 02 02 

16. HS sent request 03 17 16 for 

additional info from petitioner.

Sodium chlorite addendum received 

05 05 16. Suff due 07 05 16. Petition 

found sufficient 06 07 16. Sent back 

to Subcomm at Fall 2016 meeting. 

HS requested a TR 06 06 17.

May 16, 

Jun 6,

Jan 16

Spr 2018

Silver Dihydrogen 

Citrate

Petition Addendum 

#1

205.605(b) JM Y Petition sent to HS 01 24 17. 

Response/request for TR due 03 28 

17. Petition found sufficient 03 07 

17. HS requested TR 03 07 14. TR in 

development. Petition addendum 

sent to HS 08 03 17. TR sent to HS 

10 19 17/ Suff due 12 19 17. HS sent 

additional questions to TR 

contractor 12 05 17

Mar 7, 

Dec 5

Spr 2018
Petitioned Substances

Substance National 

List §

Conta

ct

TR rqst? Notes* Scheduled,

Discussed,

Voted

Meeting

Japones pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4, 

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Ethiopian pepper 205.606 ARB N Petition sent to HS 02 09 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 11 

17. Petition found suff 04 04 17. No 

TR. HS requested additional info 

from petitioner 07 19 17 & 11 07 19

Apr 4

Jul 18

Oct 3

Nov 7

Spr 2018

Tamarind Seed Gum 

Petition Addendum, 

August 22, 2017

205.606 SE Petition sent to HS 02 15 17. 

Response/request for TR due 04 17 

17. HS requested additional info 

from the petitioner 04 04 17.

Petition addendum Rcvd 08 10 17. 

Response due 10 10 17. Updated 

petition addendum rcvd 08 22 17.

TR requested 10 03 17. TR in 

contracting. 

Apr 4

Sep 5,

Oct 3

Feb 20

Spr 

2018/Fall 

2018

2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Name National 

List §

Con 

tact

TAP/TR Notes Scheduled, 

Discussed

Review 

Meeting

Calcium carbonate 205.605(a) SR Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Feb 20 Summary: 

Spr 2018 

Review: 

Fall 2018

Flavors 205.605(a) TC N 2005 TR Jan 2 “

Gellan Gum 205.605(a) JM N 2006 TAP Feb 20 “

Oxygen 205.605(a) LD N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

chloride

205.605(a) AS N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR for Nutrient 

vitamins and minerals

Dec 5 “

Alginates 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 19 “

Calcium hydroxide 205.605(b) AS N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Dec 5 “
2020 Sunsets 

TR Requests: July 2017, Summary: Spr 2018, Review: Fall 2018

Ethylene 205.605(b) AB N 1995 TAP; 1999 TAP -

Processing. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms 

Dec 19, 

Jan 2

“

Glycerides: mono 

and di

205.605(b) LD N 1995 TAP; 2015 TR Dec 5 “

Magnesium 

stearate

205.605(b) AB Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority

Feb 20 “

Phosphoric acid 205.605(b) AS N 2003 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Contingent on request from 

other Subcomms

Dec 5 “

Potassium 

carbonate

205.605(b) SR N 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. Low priority. 

Feb 6 “

Sulfur dioxide 205.605(b) SE N 1995 TAP; 2011 TR Dec 19 “

Xanthan gum 205.605(b) JM N 1995 TAP; 2016 TR Feb 20 “

Fructooligosacchar

ides (FOS)

205.606 TC N 2006 TAP; 2015 TR Jan 2 “

Gums: Arabic, 

Carob bean, Guar, 

Locust bean

205.606(k) JM Y 1995 TAP. TR requested 07 28 

17. TR in contracting.

Feb 20 “

Lecithin - de-oiled 205.606 AB N 1995 TAP; 2009 TR Jan 16 “

Tragacanth gum 205.606 JM Y None. TR requested 07 28 17. 

TR in contracting.

Feb 20 “

Other projects

Name Contact Notes* Meeting

Packaging

substances used in 

organic food 

handling - including 

BPA

LD/AB Submitted briefing paper to NOP 01 12 14. Response memo from 

NOP sent to HS 11 19 14. TR in development, expected mid-Sep -

delayed. TR received 9/30/16. In review by the program. TR sent 

to HS 10 19 16. TR sufficiency due 12 20 16. TR found insufficient 

12 20 16. Vote: 02 21 17. New TR in development. Expected July 

2017, TR received 07 10 17. Response due 09 08 17. TR found 

sufficient 08 01 17.

Discussion doc 

Spr 2018

Nutrient Vitamins 

and Minerals -

annotation change

TC Pending NOP Approval. Approved 01 12 16. Proposal. On hold. Spr 2018
Other projects

Marine materials

(marine algae and 

extracts). Proposal

SR Pending NOP approval. NOP approved request 01 12 16. TR 

request sent to NOP 02 05 16. TR expected Jul 2016. TR sent to 

HS 08 10 16. TR suff due 10 11 16. TR found sufficient 09 06 16. 

Voted 09 06 16. Proposal in development 12 06 16. Voted 01 17 

17. Referred back to HS at Spr 2017 NOSB meeting

TBD

Magnesium chloride

Reclassification 

205.605(b)

LD HS requested addition of this item and NOP approved 01 12 16; 

TR completed 11/30/16. 

Spr 2018

Research Priorities TC/ALL RPs due to MS Aug 2018 Fall 2018

*Highlight indicates committee action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion and/or vote

Agenda

• Approve December 19, 2017 notes

• SDBS (SR) - Discuss proposal

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (AB) - Discuss review

• Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - discuss proposal

• Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) – Discuss

• Sunset 2020: Flavors (TC) – Discuss review

• Sunset 2020: FOS (TC) – Discuss review

• Other items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• HS Notes from December 19, 2017, were approved with no changes

• SDBS Petition (SR). The lead noted that additional background information has been added to the 

proposal to summarize the petition review activities since receipt of the petition in 2015. The lead 

added more information on the manufacturing process and noted that the substance is not rinsed 

following fruit/vegetable wash. The lead discussed synthetic and nonsynthetic alternatives and 

other ingredients that may be found in formulated SDBS products. Members discussed, generally, 

how to assess whether petitioned sanitizers are essential for organic use. A member noted that 

other regulatory bodies have more expertise and authority to assess risks vs. benefits, and 

members discussed NOSB’s role in the process. Members discussed factors that may affect an 

organic handler’s selection of a particular substance and members discussed comments received on 

SDBS. Members also discussed potential advantages and the efficacy of the substance. The lead 

will update the proposal to match the newer proposal format and members will vote on the next 

call.

• 2020 sunset: Ethylene (AB). The lead discussed the use of ethylene for post-harvest ripening of 

tropical fruit and de-greening of citrus. A member asked about the allowance of ethylene under 

international organic standards, and the lead agreed to add that information to the document, 

along with other template information. 

• Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR). Postponed to the next call

• Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD). Postponed to the next call

• Sunset 2020: Flavors (TC). The lead summarized the listing for flavors. The lead noted that the 

NOSB passed a recommendation to require a search for organic flavors since the last Sunset review 
but that no action had been taken by NOP on this recommendation. This listing is being reviewed 

early to distribute the sunset workload. 

• Sunset 2020: FOS (TC). The lead summarized the substance, uses, and alternatives. A member 

noted that inulin (a longer chain polymer) is available in organic form but that organic FOS is not 

commercially available in organic form. 

• Other Items. None

• The meeting was adjourned

Previous HS Notes

Future Call Schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 ET)

December 19, 2017

Petitions for 205.606 Ingredients

Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) – Discuss

2020 sunset: Alginates (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Sulfur dioxide (SE) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Ethylene (AB) - Discuss review

January 2, 2018

SDBS (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Ethylene (AB) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Flavors (TC) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) (TC) - Discuss review

January 16, 2018

SDBS (SR) – Vote

Sodium Chlorite for the generation of chlorine dioxide gas (SR) - discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Lecithin - de-oiled (AB) - Discuss review

February 6, 2018

BPA (AB) - Discuss

Marine Materials (SR) - Discuss proposal

2020 sunset: Potassium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

Magnesium chloride reclassification (LD) – Discuss

February 20, 2018

Tamarind seed gum (SE) - TR sufficiency (if available)

2020 sunset: Calcium carbonate (SR) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gellan Gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Gums: Arabic, Carob bean, Guar, Locust bean (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Tragacanth gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Xanthan gum (JM) - Discuss review

2020 sunset: Magnesium stearate (AB) - Discuss review

March 6, 2018

March 20, 2018

April 3, 2018

April 17, 2018

May 1, 2018

May 15, 2018

June 5, 2018

June 19, 2018

July 3, 2018
July 17, 2018

August 7, 2018

August 21, 2018

September 4, 2018

September 18, 2018

October 2, 2018

October 16, 2018

November 6, 2018

November 20, 2018

December 4, 2018

December 18, 2018

Spring 2018 Milestones Target dates (tentative)

New NOSB member orientation TBD

NOSB - Spring 2018 proposals due to NOP Feb 21, 2018

NOP - Complete Spring 2018 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Mar 6, 2018

NOP - Post proposals, Open public comment Mar 6, 2018

Discuss work agendas on ES call Mar 9, 2018

Public comment closes Apr 4, 2018

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 9, 2018

Work agendas finalized on ES call (last call before fall meeting) Apr 13, 2018

Public comment webinar(s) Apr 17 & 19, 2018

Spring 2018 NOSB meeting – Tucson, AZ Apr 25-27, 2018