Unique feed ingredients

Certain feed ingredients have unique requirements for organic livestock feed programs.

Am I able to use methionine in feed rations?

This essential amino acid for poultry is often deficient in plant-based poultry feed rations. The National List allows synthetic methionine as a feed additive in poultry rations (a specific maximum amount per ton of feed). OTCO will review all rations in your Organic System Plan to determine they do not exceed the allowed amount for your species of poultry.

Am I able to use kelp in feed rations?

Kelp is considered an agricultural product and requires organic certification to be included in organic livestock feed rations.

Am I able to use fish and crab meal in feed rations?

Fish and crab meal are considered non-agricultural, non-synthetic feed ingredients and do not require organic certification to be included in organic livestock feed rations.

However, several fish meal and crab meal products include synthetic preservatives (e.g., ethoxyquin) which are prohibited for use in organic feed. Some natural preservatives are compliant with the organic standards, but all products must be reviewed and approved prior to use.

What do I need to know about using microbes like yeast and bacteria cultures?

Microbes are considered non-agricultural, non-synthetic ingredients and do not require organic certification. You are required to provide verification they are non-GMO.