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/regulations or NOSB recommendations. Proposals 

must be voted on by the full Board, to become recommendations to the USDA. 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, February 20, 2024 1:00 pm ET

Present: Allison Johnson (AJ), Chair; Jerry D’Amore (JD); Carolyn Dimitri (CD); Kyla Smith (KS); Logan Petrey (LP); 

Wood Turner (WT); Kim Huseman (KH); Dilip Nandwani (DN)

Absent: Nate Lewis (NL), Vice Chair

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Heather Kumar (HK); Esu Obu (EO)

Agenda

• Review notes: February 6, 2024 

• Tocopherols (KS) -TR sufficiency (due 4.16.24) 

• Additional Items

• Adjourn

Discussion 

• February 6, 2024 notes were accepted as written

• Tocopherols (KS) - TR sufficiency. The lead summarized the TR, and noted that tocopherols are 

manufactured in various ways, and can be synthetic or non-synthetic. The group discussed seeking 

information about the relative percentages of synthetic vs. non synthetic supply, and if the TR is the 

correct place to ask that. The TR was found sufficient. The HS will send an additional question about 

availability to the NOP to add to the Spring sunset review, which was already submitted. 

• Additional Items. 

• NOSB workflow. The NOSB Officers and Subcommittee Chairs will meet to review work 

agendas, workflow, and schedules for the upcoming semester/year. The group discussed the 

idea of projects for the Food Technologists, and how they may be able to help with the 

workload, such as having them create the initial review templates for the sunsets, and perhaps 

do an initial review of the upcoming 2027 sunsets and flagging which ones could use an updated 

TR. A member mentioned that the goal was to refresh the TRs approximately every 10 years or 

so, and cautioned against delegating that determination to the NOP. Members asked about 

deadlines and due dates, and supported the goal of getting the sunsets on a better schedule. 

The NOSB Officers will talk about best practices. 

• Fermentation panel: A member introduced the idea of hosting a fermentation panel, which is a 

topic that intersects with several sunset reviews this term: yeast, enzymes, microorganisms, etc. 

He noted there are lingering questions, both specific and more general, and a panel might be 

helpful. The HS Chair suggested the idea of inviting speakers to future Handling Subcommittee

calls before the Fall meeting, to help focus their thoughts and questions, and to inform their 

votes at the Fall meeting. The member noted that the cornerstone is “continuous 

improvement”, and this could help move the topic in a forward trajectory. Members will think 

about potential speakers and talk about this at a future call. 

• The meeting was adjourned.

Previous HS Notes

Future call schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 PM ET | 10:00 AM PT, except where noted).

February 6, 2024. Last call before proposals are due

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Enzymes (JD) - discuss review
2026 Sunset: Microorganisms (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Yeast (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss/finalize 

February 20, 2024

Tocopherols (KS) - TR sufficiency

March 5, 2024 - cancelled 

March 19, 2024

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS). TR sufficiency, if available.

2026 Sunset: Perlite (KH) - TR sufficiency

2027 Sunsets; Review initial list and assign leads

April 2, 2024

April 16, 2024

Work Agenda

*Highlight indicates discussion. *Highlight indicates action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion

and/or vote.

Petitioned Substances

Other Projects

Substance National

List Contact Doc Type Notes* Scheduled/ status

Target

meeting

Rye Pollen Extracts 205.606 CD Proposal Petition sent to HS 8.31.22. 

Petition suff. due 10.30.22. 

HS sent additional 

questions to the petitioner 

10.4.22. Response due to 

HS ~1.15.23. Petitioner’s 

response sent to HS 2.7.23. 

HS requested a TR 3.21.23. 

TR due Late October. TR 

sent to HS on 10.20.23. TR 

sufficiency due 12.19.23. 

TR found sufficient 12.5.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23. 

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

Hydroxide

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Project Contact Notes* Scheduled/

status

Target

meeting
2026 Sunset Review

TR Requests (June 2023), Summary (Spr 2024), Review (Fall 2024) 

L-Malic acid 

reclassification

KS Work agenda request 5.13.19. Sent to NOP 7.3.19. 

Approved by NOP 8.6.19. ON HOLD. Discussion doc. 

2019 TR

9.19.23

TBD

TBD

Research Priorities DN, LP, 

All

Spring 2024 list due to MS by Jan 16, 2024 12.5.23

12.19.23

2.6.24

Spr 2024

Substance National List Con

tact

TR

Re 

quest?

Notes* Scheduled

/status

Target 

meeting

Acids (Citric and Lactic) 205.605(a)(1) NL Y -

Lmt’d

scope 

(combine

d with 

citrates?)

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995 (Lactic acid, 

fermntd gluc)

TAP: 1995 (Citric acid)

TR: 2015 (Citric acid and 

salts)

TR: 2015 (Lactic Acid, Sodium 

Lactate, and Potassium 

Lactate)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23.

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

12.19.23

Summary: 

Spr 2024

Review: 

Fall 2024

Calcium chloride 205.605(a)(7) KS Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Feb. TR sent to 

HS 1.22.24. Sufficiency due 

3.22.24. The HS requested 

clarification from the TR 

writer. 

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

3.19.24

“ “

Enzymes 205.605(a)(11) JD Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011 (Animal Enzymes)

TR: 2015 (Animal Enzymes)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a)(16) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a)(18) AJ Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “
TR due mid Jan 2024. Tr sent 

to HS 12.15.23. TR suff due 

2.13.24. TR found sufficient

2.6.24. 

Microorganisms 205.605(a)(19) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

Perlite 205.605(a)(22) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1996

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024. TR 

sent to HS 2.16.24. TR suff 

due 4.16.24.

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

3.19.24

“ “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a)(24) LP Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Mar 2024

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Pullulan 205.605(a)(25) DN N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2018

04/2019 recommendation to 

add

07/26/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Yeast 205.605(a)(30) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

TR: 2014 (Microorganisms)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

Activated charcoal 205.605(b)(2) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Activated 

Carbon)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Nov. TR sent to 

HS 12.1.23. TR sufficiency 

due 1.30.24. TR found 

sufficient 1.16.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b)(6) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “
Calcium citrate 205.605(b)(7) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Collagen gel 205.605(b)(13) KH N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings)

Added to NL April 

2019 NOSB 

Recommendation

06/25/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b)(15) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 NVM

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b)(17) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Crops)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Nutrient vitamins and 

minerals

205.605(b)(20) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Peracetic 

acid/Peroxyacetic acid

205.605(b)(22) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 Handling

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b)(25) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Potassium phosphate 205.605(b)(28) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

2.6.24

“ “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b)(30) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2010 (Sodium Acid 

Pyrophosphate)

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “
Sodium citrate 205.605(b)(31) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Tocopherols 205.605(b)(36) KS Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024. TR 

sent to HS 2.16.24. TR suff 

due 4.16.24.TR found

sufficient 2.20.24.

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

2.20.24

“ “

Celery powder 205.606(c) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Fish oil 205.606(f) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

TR: 2019 Fish-based 

fertilizers

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Gelatin 205.606(h) KH N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Gelatin)

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606(m) KS N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Seaweed, Pacific kombu 205.606(q) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Wakame seaweed 

(Undaria pinnatifida)

205.606(t) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “
Milestones

Spring 2024 Milestones Target dates (tentative) Weeks PTM 

(prior to meeting)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Nov 17, 2023 16 -20

NOP - Draft Spring 2024 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 9, 2024 ~ 10

NOSB - Spring 2024 proposals due to NOP Feb 15, 2024 ~ 9 

NOP - Post proposals Mar 5, 2024 7.5

Public comment closes Apr 3, 2024 3.5

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2024 3

Public comment webinars Apr 23 & 25, 2024 1 

Spring 2024 NOSB meeting - Milwaukee, WI Apr 29 - May 1, 2024 0

Final recommendations due May 29, 2024 30 days post 

meeting
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/regulations or NOSB recommendations. Proposals 

must be voted on by the full Board, to become recommendations to the USDA. 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, February 6, 2024 12:00 pm ET

Present: Allison Johnson (AJ), Chair; Nate Lewis (NL), Vice Chair; Jerry D’Amore (JD); Carolyn Dimitri (CD); Kyla

Smith (KS); Logan Petrey (LP); Wood Turner (WT); Kim Huseman (KH)

Absent: Dilip Nandwani (DN)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Jared Clark (JC); Heather Kumar (HK); Esu Obu (EO)

Agenda

• Review notes: January 23, 2024

• Review steps to finalize spring meeting documents

• 2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS) - discuss review/TR sufficiency

• 2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ) - discuss review/TR sufficiency

• 2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

• Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss/finalize

• 2026 Sunset: Microorganisms (JD) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Enzymes (JD) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Yeast (JD) - discuss review

• Additional Items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• January 23, 2024 notes were approved as written. 

• Review steps to finalize spring meeting documents. February 15 is the due date. Please send final 

documents to Allison and NOP. 

• 2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS). The lead summarized the substance and TR, noting that the last TR 

was from 1995. The new TR contained comprehensive information about the material, however, the HS 

wanted to clarify two items before deeming the TR sufficient: the trona process (manufacturing) and 

whether it is synthetic or nonsynthetic; and commercial availability. Members posed several questions,

and the lead modified the review based on feedback. The lead will submit the review for the Spring 

meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH). The lead summarized the substance. This is the first sunset review since 

it was added to the National List. Members asked a couple of questions, and the lead will complete the 

document and submit it to the NOP for the Spring 2024 meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ). The lead summarized the TR and indicated that it was sufficient. 

She incorporated the pertinent information into the review document for the Spring meeting and will 

send an email to the NOP indicating the determination. The lead also summarized the substance review 

(uses, manufacture, etc.) and the HS accepted the review for the Spring 2024 meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP). The lead summarized the substance uses and manufacture. 

Potassium phosphate is used in “made-with” products. There were no additional questions from 

members. The lead will forward the final document to the NOP for the Spring meeting. 

• Research Priorities (LP, All). The HS liaison reviewed the HS research priorities, and the group approved 

the top three priorities, and deemed the remainder of the list important, but not pressing. The HS will 

forward the completed list to the Materials Subcommittee for review. 

• 2026 Sunset: Microorganisms, Enzymes, Yeast (JD). The lead summarized all three substances 

(Microorganisms, Enzymes, and Yeast) for use, manufacture, and health aspects. The group discussed 

the questions to stakeholders, focused on excluded methods and ancillary substances, and looks
forward to hearing public comments. The lead will submit three separate reviews/documents for the 

Spring meeting. 

• Additional Items. None.

• The meeting was adjourned. 

Previous HS Notes

Future call schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 PM ET | 10:00 AM PT, except where noted).

January 23, 2024

Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote 

2026 Sunset: Tocopherols (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium iodide (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Perlite (KH) - discuss review

February 6, 2024. Last call before proposals are due

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Enzymes (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Microorganisms (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Yeast (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss/finalize 

February 20, 2024

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS). TR sufficiency, if available. 

March 5, 2024

March 19, 2024

April 2, 2024

April 16, 2024

Work Agenda

*Highlight indicates discussion. *Highlight indicates action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion

and/or vote.

Petitioned Substances

Substance National

List Contact Doc Type Notes* Scheduled/ status

Target

meeting

Rye Pollen Extracts 205.606 CD Proposal Petition sent to HS 8.31.22. 

Petition suff. due 10.30.22. 

HS sent additional 

questions to the petitioner 

10.4.22. Response due to 

HS ~1.15.23. Petitioner’s 

response sent to HS 2.7.23. 

HS requested a TR 3.21.23. 

TR due Late October. TR 

sent to HS on 10.20.23. TR 

sufficiency due 12.19.23. 

TR found sufficient 12.5.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

Spr 2024
Other Projects

2026 Sunset Review

TR Requests (June 2023), Summary (Spr 2024), Review (Fall 2024) 

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23. 

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

Hydroxide

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Project Contact Notes* Scheduled/

status

Target

meeting

L-Malic acid 

reclassification

KS Work agenda request 5.13.19. Sent to NOP 7.3.19. 

Approved by NOP 8.6.19. ON HOLD. Discussion doc. 

2019 TR

9.19.23

TBD

TBD

Research Priorities DN, LP, 

All

Spring 2024 list due to MS by Jan 16, 2024 12.5.23

12.19.23

2.6.24

Spr 2024

Substance National List Con

tact

TR

Re 

quest?

Notes* Scheduled

/status

Target 

meeting

Acids (Citric and Lactic) 205.605(a)(1) NL Y -

Lmt’d

scope 

(combine

d with 

citrates?)

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995 (Lactic acid, 

fermntd gluc)

TAP: 1995 (Citric acid)

TR: 2015 (Citric acid and 

salts)

TR: 2015 (Lactic Acid, Sodium 

Lactate, and Potassium 

Lactate)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23.

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

12.19.23

Summary: 

Spr 2024

Review: 

Fall 2024

Calcium chloride 205.605(a)(7) KS Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Feb. TR sent to 

HS 1.22.24. Sufficiency due 

3.22.24. The HS requested 

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

2.20.24

“ “
clarification from the TR 

writer. 

Enzymes 205.605(a)(11) JD Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011 (Animal Enzymes)

TR: 2015 (Animal Enzymes)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a)(16) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a)(18) AJ Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due mid Jan 2024. TR sent 

to HS 12.15.23. TR suff due 

2.13.24. TR found sufficient

2.6.24. 

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Microorganisms 205.605(a)(19) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

Perlite 205.605(a)(22) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1996

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a)(24) LP Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Mar 2024

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Pullulan 205.605(a)(25) DN N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2018

04/2019 recommendation to 

add

07/26/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Yeast 205.605(a)(30) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

TR: 2014 (Microorganisms)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “
TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

Activated charcoal 205.605(b)(2) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Activated 

Carbon)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Nov. TR sent to 

HS 12.1.23. TR sufficiency 

due 1.30.24. TR found 

sufficient 1.16.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b)(6) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Calcium citrate 205.605(b)(7) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Collagen gel 205.605(b)(13) KH N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings)

Added to NL April 

2019 NOSB 

Recommendation

06/25/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b)(15) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 NVM

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b)(17) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Crops)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Nutrient vitamins and 

minerals

205.605(b)(20) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Peracetic 

acid/Peroxyacetic acid

205.605(b)(22) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 Handling

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “
Potassium citrate 205.605(b)(25) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Potassium phosphate 205.605(b)(28) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

2.6.24

“ “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b)(30) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2010 (Sodium Acid 

Pyrophosphate)

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b)(31) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Tocopherols 205.605(b)(36) KS Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “

Celery powder 205.606(c) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Fish oil 205.606(f) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

TR: 2019 Fish-based 

fertilizers

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Gelatin 205.606(h) KH N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Gelatin)

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606(m) KS N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “
Milestones

Seaweed, Pacific kombu 205.606(q) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Wakame seaweed 

(Undaria pinnatifida)

205.606(t) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Spring 2024 Milestones Target dates (tentative) Weeks PTM 

(prior to meeting)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Nov 17, 2023 16 -20

NOP - Draft Spring 2024 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 9, 2024 ~ 10

NOSB - Spring 2024 proposals due to NOP Feb 15, 2024 ~ 9 

NOP - Post proposals Mar 5, 2024 7.5

Public comment closes Apr 3, 2024 3.5

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2024 3

Public comment webinars Apr 23 & 25, 2024 1 

Spring 2024 NOSB meeting - Milwaukee, WI Apr 29 - May 1, 2024 0

Final recommendations due May 29, 2024 30 days post 

meeting
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/regulations or NOSB recommendations. Proposals 

must be voted on by the full Board, to become recommendations to the USDA. 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, January 23, 2024 1:00 pm ET

Present: Allison Johnson (AJ), Chair; Nate Lewis (NL), Vice Chair; Jerry D’Amore (JD); Wood Turner (WT); Kim

Huseman (KH); Carolyn Dimitri (CD); Kyla Smith (KS); Logan Petrey (LP) 

Absent: Dilip Nandwani (DN)

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Jared Clark (JC); Heather Kumar (HK); Esu Obu (EO)

Agenda

• Review notes: January 16, 2024

• Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote

• 2026 Sunset: Tocopherols (KS) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Potassium iodide (LP) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (LP) - discuss review

• Additional Items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• January 16, 2024 notes were approved with no changes. 

• Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS). The lead summarized 

modifications made to the draft review since the last discussion and members provided feedback. The 

group agreed that neither substance is essential for organic chicory powder production, given that it is 

synthetic and there are currently many alternative organic agricultural substances as well as other anticaking agents that are already listed on the National List. The HS moved to a vote.

Motion to classify magnesium carbonate and magnesium carbonate hydroxide as non-agricultural, 

synthetic.

Motion by: NL

Seconded by: KS

Yes: 8 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Recuse: 0 Absent: 1 

Motion to add magnesium carbonate and magnesium carbonate hydroxide to the NL for use as an anticaking agent in chicory powder 

Motion by: KS

Seconded by: NL

Yes: 0 No: 8 Abstain: 0 Recuse: 0 Absent: 1

• 2026 Sunset: Perlite (KH). The lead introduced the review for perlite and noted there is a pending TR. 

Perlite has been on the National List since 1996, and the last technical review was done then as well. 

The lead summarized use, manufacture, and health and environmental concerns. The HS added a

question to the review, and will add any new info from the TR once it is available. The HS will submit the 

final review for the Spring meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Tocopherols (KS). The lead summarized tocopherols, and noted that the HS is awaiting a 

Limited Scope TR, which is not expected back before the proposal due date. The TR will be available 

before the Fall meeting. The main focus of the discussion was the classification and annotation. The 

group discussed a potential annotation change, and will talk more about it at the Spring meeting, since 

they should have the TR back by then. A member suggested the possibility of posting the updated 

review (after the information from the TR is included) to the open docket between meetings. The group 

added questions for stakeholders and the HS will submit the final review for the Spring NOSB meeting.
• 2026 Sunset: Potassium iodide (LP). The lead indicated that there is a pending TR due back in March. 

She summarized the draft review including use, manufacture, and human health and environmental 

issues. There were no additional edits, and the HS will submit the review for the Spring meeting

• 2026 Sunset: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (LP). The lead summarized the draft review including use, 

manufacture, and human health and environmental issues. The group discussed the impacts of 

phosphorous on the human diet, with particular focus on health effects of phosphorous provided by 

phosphate additives versus natural phosphorous in foods. The HS will submit the review for the Spring 

meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP). Deferred to later call. 

• Additional Items. 

o The Research Priorities co-lead (LP) will send the Handling priorities to the group for discussion 

on the next call. 

o The HS added an extra hour to the call on February 6. 

• The meeting was adjourned. 

Previous HS Notes

Future call schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 PM ET | 10:00 AM PT, except where noted).

January 16, 2024

2026 Sunset: Activated charcoal (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Gelatin (KH) - discuss review

Rye Pollen Extracts - petitioned (CD) - discuss/vote

Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote

2026 Sunset: Enzymes, Microorganisms, Yeast (JD) - TR sufficiency

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss

January 23, 2024

Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote 

2026 Sunset: Tocopherols (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium iodide (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Perlite (KH) - discuss review 

February 6, 2024. Last call before proposals are due

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Enzymes (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Microorganisms (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Yeast (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss/finalize 

February 20, 2024

March 5, 2024

March 19, 2024

April 2, 2024

April 16, 2024

Work Agenda

*Highlight indicates discussion. *Highlight indicates action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion

and/or vote.
Petitioned Substances

Other Projects

2026 Sunset Review

TR Requests (June 2023), Summary (Spr 2024), Review (Fall 2024) 

Substance National

List Contact Doc Type Notes* Scheduled/ status

Target

meeting

Rye Pollen Extracts 205.606 CD Proposal Petition sent to HS 8.31.22. 

Petition suff. due 10.30.22. 

HS sent additional 

questions to the petitioner 

10.4.22. Response due to 

HS ~1.15.23. Petitioner’s 

response sent to HS 2.7.23. 

HS requested a TR 3.21.23. 

TR due Late October. TR 

sent to HS on 10.20.23. TR 

sufficiency due 12.19.23. 

TR found sufficient 12.5.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23. 

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

Hydroxide

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Project Contact Notes* Scheduled/

status

Target

meeting

L-Malic acid 

reclassification

KS Work agenda request 5.13.19. Sent to NOP 7.3.19. 

Approved by NOP 8.6.19. ON HOLD. Discussion doc. 

2019 TR

9.19.23

TBD

TBD

Research Priorities DN, LP, 

All

Spring 2024 list due to MS by Jan 16, 2024 12.5.23

12.19.23

2.6.24

Spr 2024

Substance National List Con

tact

TR

Re 

quest?

Notes* Scheduled

/status

Target 

meeting
Acids (Citric and Lactic) 205.605(a)(1) NL Y -

Lmt’d

scope 

(combine

d with 

citrates?)

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995 (Lactic acid, 

fermntd gluc)

TAP: 1995 (Citric acid)

TR: 2015 (Citric acid and 

salts)

TR: 2015 (Lactic Acid, Sodium 

Lactate, and Potassium 

Lactate)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23.

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

12.19.23

Summary: 

Spr 2024

Review: 

Fall 2024

Calcium chloride 205.605(a)(7) KS Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Feb. TR sent to 

HS 1.22.24. Sufficiency due 

3.22.24.

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Enzymes 205.605(a)(11) JD Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011 (Animal Enzymes)

TR: 2015 (Animal Enzymes)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a)(16) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a)(18) AJ Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due mid Jan 2024. Tr sent 

to HS 12.15.23. TR suff due 

2.13.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Microorganisms 205.605(a)(19) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.23

2.6.24

“ “

Perlite 205.605(a)(22) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1996

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “
Potassium iodide 205.605(a)(24) LP Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Mar 2024

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Pullulan 205.605(a)(25) DN N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2018

04/2019 recommendation to 

add

07/26/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Yeast 205.605(a)(30) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

TR: 2014 (Microorganisms)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.23

2.6.24

“ “

Activated charcoal 205.605(b)(2) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Activated 

Carbon)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Nov. TR sent to 

HS 12.1.23. TR sufficiency 

due 1.30.24. TR found 

sufficient 1.16.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b)(6) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Calcium citrate 205.605(b)(7) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Collagen gel 205.605(b)(13) KH N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

06/25/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b)(15) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 NVM

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “
Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b)(17) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Crops)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Nutrient vitamins and 

minerals

205.605(b)(20) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Peracetic 

acid/Peroxyacetic acid

205.605(b)(22) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 Handling

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b)(25) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Potassium phosphate 205.605(b)(28) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

2.6.24

“ “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b)(30) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2010 (Sodium Acid 

Pyrophosphate)

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b)(31) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Tocopherols 205.605(b)(36) KS Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “

Celery powder 205.606(c) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “
Milestones

Fish oil 205.606(f) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

TR: 2019 Fish-based 

fertilizers

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Gelatin 205.606(h) KH N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Gelatin)

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606(m) KS N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Seaweed, Pacific kombu 205.606(q) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Wakame seaweed 

(Undaria pinnatifida)

205.606(t) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Spring 2024 Milestones Target dates (tentative) Weeks PTM 

(prior to meeting)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Nov 17, 2023 16 -20

NOP - Draft Spring 2024 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 9, 2024 ~ 10

NOSB - Spring 2024 proposals due to NOP Feb 15, 2024 ~ 9 

NOP - Post proposals Mar 5, 2024 7.5

Public comment closes Apr 3, 2024 3.5

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2024 3

Public comment webinars Apr 23 & 25, 2024 1 

Spring 2024 NOSB meeting - Milwaukee, WI Apr 29 - May 1, 2024 0

Final recommendations due May 29, 2024 30 days post 

meeting
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/regulations or NOSB recommendations. Proposals 

must be voted on by the full Board, to become recommendations to the USDA. 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, January 16, 2024 1:00 pm ET

Present: Allison Johnson (AJ), Chair; Nate Lewis (NL), Vice Chair; Jerry D’Amore (JD); Wood Turner (WT); Kim

Huseman (KH); Carolyn Dimitri (CD); Kyla Smith (KS); Logan Petrey (LP); Dilip Nandwani (DN); 

Absent: None

Staff: Michelle Arsenault (MA); Jared Clark (JC); Heather Kumar (HK); Esu Obu (EO)

Agenda

• Review notes: December 19, 2023

• 2026 Sunset: Activated charcoal (KH) - discuss review

• 2026 Sunset: Gelatin (KH) - discuss review

• Rye Pollen Extracts - petitioned (CD) - discuss/vote

• Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote

• 2026 Sunset: Enzymes, Microorganisms, Yeast (JD) - TR sufficiency

• Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss

• Additional Items

• Adjourn

Discussion

• December 19, 2023 notes were accepted as written

• 2026 Sunset: Activated charcoal (KH). The lead summarized both the substance review and the TR, and 

the group discussed them. The HS requested a new TR, since the previous TAP was from 2002. The TR 

was found to be well written and comprehensive, specifically with regard to use of activated charcoal. 

The HS found the TR sufficient, and will submit the review for the Spring meeting. 

• 2026 Sunset: Gelatin (KH). The lead summarized the review of gelatin, noting the lack of organic gelatin.

The HS included a question about barriers to production of organic gelatin, and the lead will complete 

the document and submit it for the Spring meeting.

• Rye Pollen Extracts - petitioned (CD). After a brief introduction by the lead, the group discussed the 

review for rye pollen extracts. The primary use is for vegan sweetener syrup, replacing honey from bees. 

The lead will make revisions based on the conversation, and will recirculate the document prior to 

submitting it to the NOP for the Spring 2024 meeting. The Subcommittee is not supportive of adding this 

to the National List. The group felt that the changes would not alter the document in such a way that it 

would change their vote, so moved to a vote on this call. 

Motion to classify rye pollen extracts as agricultural

Motion by: CD

Seconded by: KS 

Yes: 9 No: 0 Abstain: 0 Absent: 0 Recuse: 0 

Motion to add rye pollen extracts to the NL

Motion by: CD

Seconded by: JD

Yes: 0 No: 9 Abstain: 0 Recuse: 0 Absent: 0

• Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS). The lead summarized the 

two reviews, which were combined into one document. Members discussed nano-particles, essentiality,

and alternatives, such as chicory powder. Magnesium carbonate is allowed in many of the International 

Standards, and a member asked about equivalency agreements and how that impacts the use of 
magnesium carbonate. A member added that the criteria to add substances to the NL should be a high 

bar, and members should take that into consideration with all substance reviews. Another member 

mentioned that magnesium carbonate was previously listed for use in made-with category of organic 

only, and it was removed. Additionally, the industry seems to have grown without it. The group 

discussed the questions that were part of the discussion document, and whether to include them again

in the proposal. The lead will make some modifications and keep the questions, and the HS will vote on 

a future call. 

• 2026 Sunset: Enzymes, Microorganisms, Yeast (JD). The lead summarized the limited scope TR, which

was focused on excluded methods. The TR was found sufficient, consistent, thorough, and well written. 

He also noted that the TR is broad enough to apply to other substances that are produced via 

fermentation. The group discussed the TR and its content, and the lead posed some questions for the 

group, which they may include in the Spring review. The three substances are scheduled to be reviewed 

on the February 6 call. 

• Research Priorities (DN, LP, All). Deferred. 

• Additional Items. None. 

• The meeting was adjourned. 

Previous HS Notes

Future call schedule (1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1:00 PM ET | 10:00 AM PT, except where noted).

December 19, 2023

2026 Sunset: Acids (Citric and Lactic) (NL) - discuss reviews

2026 Sunset: Pullulan (DN) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Fish oil (DN) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Seaweed, Pacific kombu (DN) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Wakame seaweed (Undaria pinnatifida) (DN) - discuss review

January 16, 2024

2026 Sunset: Activated charcoal (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Gelatin (KH) - discuss review

Rye Pollen Extracts - petitioned (CD) - discuss/vote

Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote

2026 Sunset: Enzymes, Microorganisms, Yeast (JD) - TR sufficiency

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss

January 23, 2024

Magnesium Carbonate/Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide - petitioned (KS) - discuss/vote 

2026 Sunset: Calcium chloride (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Tocopherols (KS) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium iodide (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Potassium phosphate (LP) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Sodium acid pyrophosphate (LP) - discuss review

February 6, 2024. Last call before proposals are due

2026 Sunset: Collagen gel (KH) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Magnesium sulfate (AJ) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Enzymes (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Microorganisms (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Yeast (JD) - discuss review

2026 Sunset: Perlite (KH) - discuss review

Research Priorities (DN, LP, All) - discuss

February 20, 2024

March 5, 2024
March 19, 2024

April 2, 2024

April 16, 2024

Work Agenda

*Highlight indicates discussion. *Highlight indicates action needed. *Highlight indicates review completion

and/or vote.

Petitioned Substances

Other Projects

2026 Sunset Review

TR Requests (June 2023), Summary (Spr 2024), Review (Fall 2024) 

Substance National

List Contact Doc Type Notes* Scheduled/ status

Target

meeting

Rye Pollen Extracts 205.606 CD Proposal Petition sent to HS 8.31.22. 

Petition suff. due 10.30.22. 

HS sent additional 

questions to the petitioner 

10.4.22. Response due to 

HS ~1.15.23. Petitioner’s 

response sent to HS 2.7.23. 

HS requested a TR 3.21.23. 

TR due Late October. TR 

sent to HS on 10.20.23. TR 

sufficiency due 12.19.23. 

TR found sufficient 12.5.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23. 

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Magnesium 

Carbonate 

Hydroxide

205.605 KS Proposal Petition sent to HS 2.10.23. 

Petition suff. due 4.11.23.

Petition found sufficient/ 

HS requested TR 3.21.23. 

TR sent to HS 8.31.23. 

Sufficiency due 10.30.23

TR found sufficient 9.19.23

12.5.23

1.16.24

1.23.24

Spr 2024

Project Contact Notes* Scheduled/

status

Target

meeting

L-Malic acid 

reclassification

KS Work agenda request 5.13.19. Sent to NOP 7.3.19. 

Approved by NOP 8.6.19. ON HOLD. Discussion doc. 

2019 TR

9.19.23

TBD

TBD

Research Priorities DN, LP, 

All

Spring 2024 list due to MS by Jan 16, 2024 12.5.23

12.19.23

2.6.24

Spr 2024
Substance National List Con

tact

TR

Re 

quest?

Notes* Scheduled

/status

Target 

meeting

Acids (Citric and Lactic) 205.605(a)(1) NL Y -

Lmt’d

scope 

(combine

d with 

citrates?)

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995 (Lactic acid, 

fermntd gluc)

TAP: 1995 (Citric acid)

TR: 2015 (Citric acid and 

salts)

TR: 2015 (Lactic Acid, Sodium 

Lactate, and Potassium 

Lactate)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23.

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

12.19.23

Summary: 

Spr 2024

Review: 

Fall 2024

Calcium chloride 205.605(a)(7) KS Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Feb.

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “

Enzymes 205.605(a)(11) JD Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011 (Animal Enzymes)

TR: 2015 (Animal Enzymes)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

1.16.24

2.6.24

“ “

L-Malic acid 205.605(a)(16) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Magnesium sulfate 205.605(a)(18) AJ Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due mid Jan 2024. Tr sent 

to HS 12.15.23. TR suff due 

2.13.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Microorganisms 205.605(a)(19) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

2.6.24

“ “
Perlite 205.605(a)(22) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1996

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “

Potassium iodide 205.605(a)(24) LP Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 1995

TR: 2011

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Mar 2024

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Pullulan 205.605(a)(25) DN N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2018

04/2019 recommendation to 

add

07/26/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Yeast 205.605(a)(30) JD Y -

Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2014

TR: 2014 (Microorganisms)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due early Dec. TR sent to 

HS 12.13.23. TR suff due 

2.11.24. TR found sufficient 

1.16.24

3.21.23

6.6.23

2.6.24

“ “

Activated charcoal 205.605(b)(2) KH Y Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Activated 

Carbon)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Nov. TR sent to 

HS 12.1.23. TR sufficiency 

due 1.30.24. TR found 

sufficient 1.16.24

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Ascorbic acid 205.605(b)(6) NL N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2019

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

9.19.23

“ “

Calcium citrate 205.605(b)(7) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR 

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Collagen gel 205.605(b)(13) KH N Sunset date: 7/26/2026

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

06/25/2021, 86 FR 33479

3.21.23

4.4.23

2.6.24

“ “
Ferrous sulfate 205.605(b)(15) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 NVM

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Hydrogen peroxide 205.605(b)(17) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Crops)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Nutrient vitamins and 

minerals

205.605(b)(20) AJ N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Peracetic 

acid/Peroxyacetic acid

205.605(b)(22) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 Handling

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “

Potassium citrate 205.605(b)(25) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Potassium phosphate 205.605(b)(28) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Sodium acid 

pyrophosphate

205.605(b)(30) LP N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2010 (Sodium Acid 

Pyrophosphate)

TR: 2016 (Phosphates) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

1.23.24

“ “

Sodium citrate 205.605(b)(31) CD Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015 (Citric Acid and 

Salts)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

Draft TR sent to HS 10.19.23. 

Sufficiency due 12.18.23. TR

found sufficient 11.21.23

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.21.23

“ “

Tocopherols 205.605(b)(36) KS Y - Lmt’d 

Scope

Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

TR due late Feb 2024

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.23.24

“ “

Celery powder 205.606(c) WT N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

11.7.23

“ “
Milestones

Fish oil 205.606(f) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2015

TR: 2019 Fish-based 

fertilizers

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Gelatin 205.606(h) KH N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TAP: 2002 (Gelatin)

TR: 2019 (Collagen Gel, 

Gelatin, and Casings) 

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

1.16.24

“ “

Orange pulp, dried 205.606(m) KS N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: NA

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

4.4.23

9.5.23

“ “

Seaweed, Pacific kombu 205.606(q) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Wakame seaweed 

(Undaria pinnatifida)

205.606(t) DN N Sunset date: 9/12/2026

TR: 2016 (Marine Plants & 

Algae -Organic Production 

and Handling)

2019/Fall - Rec to Renew

08/03/2021 86 FR 41699

3.21.23

5.16.23

12.19.23

“ “

Spring 2024 Milestones Target dates (tentative) Weeks PTM 

(prior to meeting)

NOP - Publish FRN, Open public comment ~Nov 17, 2023 16 -20

NOP - Draft Spring 2024 NOSB meeting tentative agenda Feb 9, 2024 ~ 10

NOSB - Spring 2024 proposals due to NOP Feb 15, 2024 ~ 9 

NOP - Post proposals Mar 5, 2024 7.5

Public comment closes Apr 3, 2024 3.5

NOP - Send compiled public comments to NOSB Apr 5, 2024 3

Public comment webinars Apr 23 & 25, 2024 1 

Spring 2024 NOSB meeting - Milwaukee, WI Apr 29 - May 1, 2024 0

Final recommendations due May 29, 2024 30 days post 

meeting