USDA National Organic Program (Agricultural Marketing Service)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service’s National Organic Program (NOP) is a regulatory program that develops and enforces national standards for organically-produced agricultural products. These standards assure consumers that products with the USDA organic seal meet consistent, uniform standards for production and distribution. Organic products are now found in the majority of U.S. households with Americans spending nearly $50 billion in organic purchases annually. The National Organic Program team: - Investigates complaints alleging violations of USDA organic regulations; conducts proactive compliance and outreach activities; and enforces organic production, handling, and labeling standards. - Accredits and oversees a network of third-party organizations, called certifiers, who certify organic farms and businesses. - Sets standards for organically-produced agricultural products. We develop and update regulations and policies; and facilitate review of new materials for use in organic agriculture. - Collaborates with other USDA agencies and countries to establish organic equivalency arrangements. - Develops communication materials and outreach and training programs to support the organic community.