GoingOrganic: Processors &Handlers
ORGANIC TRANSITION- JUST FOR PROCESSORS AND HANDLERS
New Here? Handlers and Processors, we understand!
The definition for handling and processing in the organic regulations is extensive. (Not a believer? You can look up the definitions here under ‘Terms Defined’.) Certifiers received a big influx of Handling/Processing scope clients with the implementation of the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Act in 2024. Other operations that are already certified for crops or livestock may adopt new processes that require the addition of the certification scope to their organic certificate.
Whatever the reason you are new to the Handling/Processing scope, we have a few resources for you to orient yourself before stepping into this brave new handling world.
Resources For the Handler/Processor Looking To Transition
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Newcomers’ Guide to Organic Regulations for Handling. The name says it all. This resource, developed by Organic Agronomy Training Services (OATS) and Organic Trade Association (OTA), should be your first stop for reading if new to the Handling/Processing scope.
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Certification Process Overview for Handlers. This guide was developed by OTA and OATS and walks through the certification process using handling language and references.
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From OTA and OATS: Glossary of Terms for Organic Certification for Handlers
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Developing a Facility Map and Process Flow Sheet can be an important part of the application process. Take a look at this info sheet, “Facility Map and Process Flow,” put together by the Northeast Organic Farming Association Vermont (NOFA VT).
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