November 6, 2023
SOE: Organic Fraud Prevention Under the Regulation: §205.201(a)(3)
The most significant change to USDA organic regulations in 20 years is being implemented March 19, 2024: Strengthening Organic Enforcement(SOE).
The rise of organic fraud prompted the new rule and it’s meant to strengthen the oversight and the enforcement of the production, handling and sale of organic products.
How will this affect you?
Under §205.201(a)(3) all operations must have an Organic Fraud Prevention plan in place to prevent the “Deceptive representation, sale, or labeling of nonorganic agricultural products or ingredients as “100 percent organic,” “organic,” or “made with organic (specified ingredients or food groups(s)”.
Organic Fraud Prevention Plan
The details within your plan can include, but are not limited to:
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Identifying the control points in the supply chain
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Assessing the weaknesses in the supply chain
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Conducting vulnerability assessments
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Enhancing your Traceability system (1 up, 1 down)
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Labeling and Receiving Protocols