USDA NOP

What Is USDA NOP (National Organic Program)?

The National Organic Program (NOP) is an organic agriculture standard established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This system ensures that agricultural production is carried out in an environmentally friendly, sustainable way and free from chemical residues. NOP is the standard that defines all rules related to the production, processing, packaging and labelling of organic products.

The NOP certificate documents that producers implement organic farming practices in compliance with U.S. organic regulations (USDA Organic Regulation). Thanks to this certificate, products can be marketed in the United States with the "USDA ORGANIC" label.

Why Is the USDA NOP Certificate Important?

The NOP certificate provides international assurance for producers and is one of the key prerequisites for exporting to the United States. For consumers, it is a guarantee that the product has been produced without the use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For this reason, NOP-certified products are preferred in both local and global markets.

Scope of the USDA NOP Certificate

The NOP system covers plant production, animal production, processed organic foods, feed production and seed production. The following areas are assessed within the framework of NOP standards:

• Organic fruit and vegetable production
• Organic field crops (wheat, corn, barley, etc.)
• Organic animal production (milk, eggs, meat)
• Organic feed production
• Organic processed products and packaging
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How to Obtain the USDA NOP Certificate

Enterprises wishing to obtain the NOP certificate must complete the following stages:

• Preparation: The enterprise evaluates its current production practices according to NOP criteria.
• Application: An application is submitted to CTR, an authorised and accredited certification body for NOP.
• Audit planning: The audit date is set and an auditor is assigned.
• On-site inspection: The production area, records, inputs used and processing steps are examined on-site.
• Evaluation and certification: If compliance is confirmed as a result of the audit, the NOP certificate is issued.
• Annual audit: The validity of the certificate is maintained through yearly surveillance audits.
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Benefits of the USDA NOP Certificate

• Provides the opportunity to sell products with the "USDA ORGANIC" label in the United States and other countries.
• Positions producers as reliable suppliers in international markets.
• Increases consumer confidence and brand value.
• Promotes an environmentally friendly and sustainable production model.
• Creates a competitive advantage in export markets.
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Organizations Authorized to Issue USDA NOP Certificates

The NOP certificate is issued by certification bodies that are authorised and accredited by USDA. These organisations audit producers' compliance with NOP standards and issue certificates to enterprises that meet the requirements.

CTR provides certification services to producers within the scope of the NOP (National Organic Program). Acting on the principles of impartiality, transparency and adherence to international standards, CTR evaluates and certifies production processes.

USDA NOP Certification Fee

The NOP certification fee varies depending on the size of the production area, product diversity, scope of the audit and annual surveillance activities. Each enterprise is assessed individually. CTR offers proposals and process planning tailored to the needs of producers.

For detailed information on the cost of NOP certification and the application process based on the characteristics of your enterprise, you can contact CTR.