Optional to obtain certification
What types of operations considered are considered optional?
- Brand owners
- Marketers
- Traders / brokers (livestock brokers must be certified)
- Product transport businesses
- Livestock transport businesses
- Storage facilities
- Operations that meet the USDA National Organic Program’s organic exemptions (see below)
Do I need certification if I contract other businesses to produce my organic products?
No. If you contract someone else to produce organic products for you and only sell the final product — what’s known as a “brand owner” — you do not require certification. However, your co-packer or custom manufacturer is required to be certified and to list your organic products on their certificate.