What are the requirements for obtaining a USDA organic certification?

In Florida, the requirements for obtaining a USDA organic certification are governed by the Federal Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 (OFPA) and the National Organic Program (NOP). The NOP regulates all aspects of organic food production, handling, and labeling, implemented by the United States Department of Agriculture. The NOP requires that a farm or production facility meet certain standards and requirements for growing, harvesting, processing, and packaging organic products. The standards set forth by the OFPA and NOP include the use of organic seeds and other inputs in farming and the exclusion of synthetic substances, such as fertilizers and pesticides. The use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is also prohibited. All organic products must be produced without the use of sewage sludge, ionizing radiation, or bioengineering. Furthermore, organic producers must establish an action plan to prevent organic contamination, while growers must maintain compliance with set NOP regulations and recordkeeping requirements. To obtain certification, an organic producer must submit an application and an organic system plan to the USDA. The organic system plan must include a description of the land, farming operations, and products produced. The application must also include documentation of the current growing practices being used and proof of organic inputs. The facility must also go through an inspection process to prove that it is following all regulations. Once the USDA completes the review of the application and inspection, the USDA will issue the certification to the organic producer.

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What are the requirements for obtaining a USDA organic certification?

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