Processor or Handler

Yes. The Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 requires certification agencies to perform residue testing of organic product. Such testing acts as a deterrent to fraud and helps to prove to organic customers that the standards are upheld and that organic really does mean something. CCOF is granted the authority to collect samples for testing by the National Organic Program regulations section 205.670. Refusing to allow the inspector to take samples for testing may result in adverse action against your certification with CCOF.

Like other non-GMO verification programs, non-GMO does not mean GMO-free. The phrase “non-GMO” on certified organic products means that, as required by organic standards, the product was produced without the use of GMOs.

Currently there is no federal regulation for organic cosmetics. If you would like to claim that your product is “certified organic” it must meet the same requirements as organic food, including the restrictions on non-organic ingredients and labeling.

The way you label your certified organic products will depend on the amount of organic ingredients in them. Most crops and single-ingredient products can be labeled “Organic” and use the USDA seal.