What Does National Organic Program (NOP) Mean?
The National Organic Program (NOP) is a regulatory program in the United States. It is a part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
The National Organic Program is responsible for developing standards for organically produced agricultural products, which includes crops, livestock, and products derived from those items such as beauty products.
Products that contain at least 95% organic ingredients and are in accordance with USDA standards are awarded the USDA organic seal. National Organic Program standards help let consumers know that products that carry the USDA organic seal meet consistent, uniform standards.
It should be noted that NOP regulations do not address food safety or nutrition; these factors are governed by additional agencies in the US.
Maximum Yield Explains National Organic Program (NOP)
In the United States, organic food is federally governed by the regulatory framework of the National Organic Program. Protecting the integrity of the USDA organic seal is the NOP's core purpose.
The National Organic Program involves fresh and processed agricultural food products, such as crops and livestock, as well as non-food products that may be sold as organic, such as natural fibers like organic cotton. Health and beauty products can also be labeled organic through the NOP if compliant with the National Organic Program's standards.
The main undertakings of the National Organic Program are to maintain the list of certified organic operations, including helping new operations get certified, training and accrediting certifying agents, and investigating any reports of violation.
The NOP is also responsible for the ongoing development of guidance and regulations on organic standards, overseeing the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances, and institute international organic import and export policies.
The National Organic Program also assists the work of the National Organic Standards Board, a Federal Advisory Committee program that oversees the Organic Certification Cost Share programs.
