Equipment

Can I use my equipment for both organic and non-organic products?

Yes. However, you’ll need to demonstrate and document a plan for purging and sanitizing equipment to prevent the commingling of organic and non-organic products.

When do I need to purge my equipment?

Purging applies to equipment used for both organic and non-organic products. It may also eliminate the step of equipment cleaning in certain situations.

A purge runs an adequate batch of organic product through equipment to eliminate any residue or remaining non-organic product in unreachable areas. All purged organic batches may not be sold as organic. They are eligible for sale as non-organic or may be discarded. Detailed records of equipment cleaning and purges are required.

When are equipment purges not required?

If you can adequately clean equipment prior to an organic run, or you are an organic-only facility, a purge is not required. Appropriate steps to eliminate cleaning material or sanitation residue are still necessary.