On January 19, 2023, USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) published the long-anticipated “Strengthening Organic Enforcement” rule, amounting to the most significant changes to the regulations in the history of the NOP. Every currently certified organic operation will be affected by the rule changes, and thousands more will need to obtain certification for the first time. Operations and certifying agents must comply with the new requirements by March 19, 2024.

Demand for organic certification is at a record high, and the certification process takes 12-14 weeks after submitting your Organic System Plan. Book your audits now to ensure auditor availability. Inquire about expedited services.

Rule changes and updates to the regulations include the following areas:

Read our recent blog on "Understanding the USDA's New Strengthening Organic Enforcement Rule" where we outline the major updates to the new rule.

Not sure if your business needs organic certification? Take the quiz here to find out.

WEBINAR RECORDING

Understanding the USDA’s New Strengthening Organic Enforcement Rule

Get an overview of the new rules, including major expansions to the requirements that will affect entire supply chains. Participants will learn about the many areas affected by updated rulemaking, and specific preparations that are necessary to become compliant with the new regulations.

BLOG

SOE Summary: Top Seven Changes to Watch as 2024 Deadline Nears

The USDA’s Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule is the biggest change to the National Organic Program since its founding in 2001. Many companies in the organic supply chain that never needed organic certification before will now be required to get certified. This blog covers the top 7 changes impacting companies under the SOE final rule.

BLOG

SOE Organic Fraud Prevention – What Every Business Needs to Know

An organic system plan and accompanying organic fraud prevention plan are mandatory under the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule. This blog discusses some of the most important parts of the organic fraud prevention plan (OFPP) requirement under the SOE final rule that all companies in the certified organic supply chain need to be aware of.

FAQ

Strengthening Organic Enforcement | Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The year-long implementation period for the final rule of USDA’s Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) ends on March 19, 2024. Is your company ready to be compliant with the updated regulations and requirements? SCS has pulled together a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) to help you get up to speed.