WASHINGTON DC (April 1, 2020) — The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeks nominations of qualified individuals for five open seats on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). The 15-member advisory board considers and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and other issues involved in the production, handling and processing of USDA certified organic products.

WASHINGTON DC (January 9, 2020) — The Organic Integrity Learning Center now includes two new courses targeted to the needs of accredited certifiers and inspectors. Courses are available to all users.

Advanced Inspections details best practices for planning and conducting effective investigations.

Course lessons include:

WASHINGTON DC (November 7, 2019) — The National Organic Program, Compliance, and Enforcement/Appeals Annual Summary for Fiscal Year 2019 is now available on the NOP website. The report provides a summary of incoming complaints and appeals, initial actions taken, suspensions, revocations, and case-dispositions during the past fiscal year. Fourth-quarter data show a significant increase in the number of investigations closed, as well as inquiries and appeals resolved.

WASHINGTON DC (October 19, 2019) — On October 18, 2019, the Department of Agriculture published a proposed rule in the Federal Register to amend the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List) based on public input and the October 2018 recommendations from the National Organic Standards Board.

This proposed rule would: