Aug 16, 2023
USDA offers new course on organic handling, processing
The USDA’s National Organic Program recently published a new course in its Organic Integrity Learning Center on how handlers and processors should maintain a product’s organic status.
The “Keep it Organic When Handling and Processing” course addresses key activities implemented by certified operations that handle, process, package and store agricultural products. The course introduces elements of certification, including types of handling processes, product labeling categories and composition requirements, facility pest management, sanitation, co-mingling risks and prevention.
With more handling operations seeking organic certification under the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule, this training is a critical part of rule implementation activities to help businesses prepare for the March 2024 SOE compliance deadline.
The course is also for individuals working in an organic certification role, including quality assurance, regulatory teams, certification staff, inspectors or anyone engaging in handling activities to comply with the USDA organic regulations.
Log in to use interactive media, including video recorded at organic operations, to build knowledge and skills and apply course concepts to realistic scenarios.
This course was prepared for the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, National Organic Program, in partnership with USDA accredited certifier Oregon Tilth. For more information, register for a USDA Learning Center account or sign in if you already have an account.
