USDA renews 56 substances on organic National List through 2031

The USDA has renewed 56 substances on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances for organic production, extending their approval through July 26, 2031. The action follows the 2026 sunset review conducted by the National Organic Standards Board and the USDA’s National Organic Program.

Under the Organic Foods Production Act, each substance on the National List is reviewed at least once every five years. The review considers human health, environmental impact, the substance’s necessity in organic production or handling and whether alternatives exist. The process also includes opportunities for public comment.

The renewed listings include synthetic substances used in crop production, such as hydrogen peroxide and horticultural oils, as well as pest control materials like ferric phosphate. Livestock producers will continue to be able to use magnesium sulfate and iodine. For handling and processing, the renewal covers nonagricultural ingredients including citric acid, enzymes, perlite and tocopherols, along with nonorganically produced agricultural products such as dried orange pulp and fish oil.

Two natural substances, oxalic acid dihydrate and pullulan, remain prohibited after review. The USDA noted that these substances did not meet organic criteria or had acceptable organic alternatives.

According to the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, 24 synthetic substances remain allowed in organic crop and livestock production, 24 nonagricultural substances and six nonorganic agricultural products remain allowed in handling, and the two natural substances remain prohibited.

The National List is a cornerstone of the National Organic Program, guiding which substances may be used in organic crop, livestock and processed product production. Certifying agents approve their use based on annotations and organic system plans, and the renewal ensures continued regulatory certainty for farmers, ranchers and processors navigating organic compliance.