Learn about the USDA National Organic Program

The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) is part of the Agricultural Marketing Service and sets the federal standards for organically produced agricultural products in the United States. It ensures that organic products meet strict guidelines for soil quality, animal welfare, pest management, and the use of ingredients and processing aids. Understanding NOP priorities is essential for businesses committed to maintaining organic integrity.

Find vendors of certified organic ingredients

The Organic Integrity Database is an official USDA resource that allows users to search for certified organic operations worldwide. Whether you're sourcing organic ingredients or verifying a supplier's certification, this tool helps businesses maintain transparency and trust in the organic supply chain.

Read the Organic rules and regulations

The USDA Organic Rules, outlined in 7 CFR Part 205, establish the legal framework for organic certification in the U.S. These regulations cover everything from production and handling requirements to labeling and enforcement. Staying informed about these rules ensures compliance and protects your organic certification.

Why Organic? - Understand why organic farming matters

Organic farming supports environmental sustainability, promotes biodiversity, and ensures healthier food systems. The Rodale Institute offers valuable research and insights into the long-term benefits of organic practices, including improved soil health, reduced chemical use, and increased resilience to climate change.

Discover how to become an organic inspector

The International Organic Inspectors Association (IOIA) offers comprehensive training for individuals seeking to become organic inspectors. Their programs cover crop, livestock, processing, and wild harvest inspections, preparing professionals to uphold organic standards worldwide.

Join up with other certified organic businesses

The Organic Trade Association (OTA) connects certified organic businesses, advocates for supportive policies, and promotes organic products on a global scale. Membership offers networking opportunities, industry insights, and a collective voice to strengthen the organic movement.

Understand which crop and food processing inputs are allowed in Organics

Organic Materials Review organizations work to evaluate and approve “inputs” such as soil amendments, pest control products, and sanitizers used in organic production. OMRI, WSDA, and CDFA are independent materials review organizations offering public-facing lists of inputs allowed in organic production.

Determine which sustainable farming practices make sense for your business

The ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture program, managed by the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), offers a wealth of resources and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, educators, and others involved in sustainable agriculture across the United States.

Get guidance about techniques to promote biodiversity on your farm

The Wild Farm Alliance's "Biodiversity Conservation: An Organic Farmer's and Certifier's Guide" provides practical information to help organic farmers and certifiers comply with the National Organic Program's (NOP) Natural Resources and Biodiversity Conservation Guidance.

Fast-track your organic import business

The USDA has guidance documents to help you understand the nuts and bolts of International Equivalency Agreements and for importing and exporting certified organic products.

Pull a soil map for anywhere in the US

The USDA's Web Soil Survey (WSS), provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), offers comprehensive soil data and information for over 95% of the U.S. landscape. This free online tool allows users—farmers, land managers, researchers, and the public—to access detailed soil maps, properties, and suitability ratings for various land uses

Get an organic consultant and figure out how to build your business

The Organic Integrity Cooperative makes organic easier for you. Whether you are a food scientist or an organic tomato farmer, we make certification of organic products easier for you. Give yourself time to do what you do best. Give us the heavy lifting for your organic certification.