Organic Foods Rule Bans use of Sewer Sludge

A new national standard for agricultural products labeled as "organic" specifically prohibits the use of sewage sludge for fertilization.

Essentially, the new organic standard offers a national definition for the term "organic." It details the methods, practices and substances that can be used in producing and handling organic crops and livestock, as well as processed products. It establishes clear organic labeling criteria, and along with biosolids specifically prohibits the use of genetic engineering methods and ionizing radiation.

All agricultural products labeled organic must originate from farms or handling operations certified by a state or private agency accredited by USDA. Farms and handling operations that sell less than $5,000 worth per year of organic agricultural products are exempt from certification. Farmers and handlers have 18 months to comply with the national standards.

According to USDA, retail sales of organic foods in 1999 totaled about $6 billion, and the number of organic farmers in the United States - currently about 12,000 - is increasing by about 12% annually.

The new standard becomes effective Feb. 20. The rulemaking text, associated fact sheets, and background information are available at http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop.