Labeling & Ingredients - What is Organic?

Labeling of Organic Products

Labeling of Organic Products

The National Organic Program has specific guidelines for labeling of food that is made with organically grown or produced ingredients. The composition of the food based upon the organic ingredients is verified during the inspection of your processing plant. It is a violation of federal and state law to falsely claim organic status when it does not exist.

The NOP also provides a list of approved nonorganic ingredients. Although the non-organic ingredients list is being litigated now this list provides some guidance for processors. If you have questions, contact your certification agency or the Organic Materials Review Institute. The list of approved non-organic ingredients is here: National List (pdf)

There are four categories of labeling for organic products. These categories are based on the percentage (by weight) of the ingredients that are organic. Salt and water are not considered in the calculation.

The four labeling categories are:

100% ORGANIC
ORGANIC 95 – 100%
MADE WITH ORGANIC INGREDIENTS – 70% OR MORE
ORGANIC INGREDIENTS

Additional details about organic labeling can be found in each of the documents.

• Labeling for processors (pdf)
• Labeling details (pdf)

More general information about food product package labeling can be found in this document.

• A Food Labeling Guide (pdf)