National Organic Standards Key Points National organic standards are the result of ten years of dedicated work by the Organic Trade Association, its members, the farming community supporting sustainable agriculture, consumers, and a number of dedicated government employees. Organic agriculture is a production system that's here to stay. It will contribute tremendously to the growth of family farms, to the U.S. economy, and to a safer environment worldwide. For the first time, there will be consistent standards for all organic products marketed in the United States. No longer will there be questions concerning what certification stands for, or whether a state recognizes a private certification label.
Standards clarify and make labeling consistent, protecting the integrity of the organic guarantee.
The rule gives consumers the assurance of what organic stands for. Organic agriculture prohibits the use of toxic synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, irradiation, sewage sludge, and genetic engineering in anything labeled organic. USDA will finally oversee and enforce the entry of only qualified organic products into the United States, thus preventing false and mislabeled products from entering the country. Having standards in place will facilitate and expand the marketing of organic products, both domestically and globally. The rule comes on the heels of the Risk Management Act that stated organic is a good agricultural practice.