Organic Growers of Australia

OGA Organic Standard

Revised Edition — June 2004

DOWNLOAD our Printable version of OGA Standards
National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce (AFFA website)

CONTENTS

A Growing Industry
Specific To This Standard
Introduction
Scope of Standard
Definitions
Organic Production

Wild Harvest
Landless Production
Mushrooms
Sprouts, wheat/barley grass

Converting the Farm
The Inspection System
Sanctions
Labelling
Processing/Packaging
Aquaculture
Bee Products
Livestock
General
Conversion
Breeds & Breeding

Nutrition
Disease
Welfare
Housing
Handling
Identification
Manure

APPENDICES

1. Farming Principles

Certification of Addional Land
Weed Control
Seeds & Seedlings

2. Inputs
3. Soil (Fertilising & Conditioning)
4. Plant (Pest & Disease Control)
5. Livestock (Pest & Disease Control)
6. Sanitation, Storage & Handling


A GROWING INDUSTRY

The organic market is expanding with people’s change in awareness of their health and diet — and an increasingly cosmopolitan population. Now, there is a growing demand, both locally and overseas, for food produced on a healthy, clean soil without the use of chemicals.

In addition, people are more assertive that their food production systems must not erode Australia’s ancient and fragile landscape nor damage its sensitive environment.

Organic growing is ideally suited to the small landholder. Now is the time to start revitalising your soil. Healthy soil produces healthy food — which will produce healthy people.

SPECIFIC TO THIS STANDARD

While this OGA Standard is based on the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce, there are some important differences, which are specific to this Standard. They are:

4 When a defined area is certified, the remainder of the farm must be converted to organic within 10 years (Sect 4.5)
5 Export certificates are restricted to Certified Organic (Grade A) operators (Sect 5.12)
6 Artificial lighting is not to be used (Sect 11(g)3)
7 Only open pollinated, non-hybrid seeds/seedlings from organic stock are to be used (App 1)
8 Pyrethrum products with piperonyl butoxide (a carcinogen) are not to be used (App 4 & 5)


Nothing in these Standards takes precedence over the laws of any State or Territory. It is the responsibility of the grower to acquaint themselves with the relevant laws and regulations. Produce treated to comply with any legal requirements may be disqualified from certification.

INTRODUCTION

The Organic Growers of Australia Inc (OGA) was established in 1986 by a group of NSW Northern Rivers farmers to promote the growing, processing and marketing of herbs - and to disseminate information to help establish a herb growing industry throughout Australia.

OGA recognised the ever-increasing community and environmental problems of chemical residues in food and the use of non-sustainable farming practices. As a result, OGA developed an Organic Standard to help establish its own certification system for its members.
Since then, OGA has grown into a national organic certification body which is accredited for export by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS) and is formally recognised for direct export by the European Union (EU) and Japan (JAS).

OGA's certification system is designed to be ethical, to be cost-effective, and to provide a service without additional levies on farm sales. The OGA Standard now covers all farm activities, processing, manufacturing, and wild harvest. The Standard is an evolving benchmark and is regularly updated to reflect changes in the organic industry.

This Standard is the basis of OGA's Certification System and complies with - or exceeds - the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce. Members who qualify under the OGA Standard will have the right to use the OGA logo and a dedicated certification number. This Standard is subject to amendment. Review of any aspect may be requested by any OGA certified grower.


1.    SCOPE OF STANDARD

1.1 This Standard applies to products which carry, or are intended to carry, descriptive labelling — indicating that the farm or manufactured produce is organically produced.

1.2 The Standard seeks to ensure that the ethics of organic production are followed. Therefore, in the case of farm certification, the grower (as manager of the land) — together with the land itself — will be subject to certification. The two components, grower and land, cannot be separated. Therefore, organic certification is not transferable.

1.3 OGA accepts that produce may not be completely free of chemical residues, since it may be subject to air, water or soil pollution beyond the grower’s control. However, as long as the grower is working ethically towards the creation of an organic ecosystem — and does not breach any of the regulations — there will be a certain amount of tolerance allowed. Acceptable residue levels are based upon a percentage of the maximum residue level (MRL) as defined by the National Registration Authority (NRA) and Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). OGA will accept as organic only those products which contain less than 5% of the MRL.

1.4 The certification system is policed via random inspections and consumer feedback. However, the system relies mainly on grower honesty. Each certified grower/processor is asked to sign an affidavit stating they agree to be honour-bound by this Standard. OGA uses trained organic inspectors, with approved powers and duties, to manage and control the system.

1.5 This Standard shall at all times comply with the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce. The National Standard shall be the basic requirement upon which the OGA Standard is based.

1.6 Any products derived from genetic modification technology, treated with ionising radiation, or which interfere with the natural metabolism of livestock and plants, are not permitted under this Standard.

1.7 Inputs which have been derived from natural sources – but which contain added contaminants (such as carcinogens) – are not permitted.

2.  DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this document:

allopathic veterinary drugs means substances used to treat disease that produce a reaction or effects different from those caused by the disease itself.

AQIS is the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, known as "the Competent Authority", a Government body.

Biodynamic means agricultural practices based principally on the work of Rudolf Steiner and subsequent developments derived from practical application, experience and research.

closed system is a farm management system which reduces or eliminates all off-farm inputs. All requirements (mineral and vegetative) are sourced from the atmosphere, topsoil, subsoil and bedrock.

feed ration means a feed allowance for an animal in any given period of a day or longer

foliage is the aerial parts of leafy plants or herbs.

genetically modified organisms (GMOs) means materials produced through the modern methods of biotechnology - specifically gene technology, recombinant DNA (rDNA), and all other techniques using molecular and/or cell-biology for altering the genetic make-up of living organisms in ways or with results which do not occur in nature or through traditional breeding.

grower is the person who cultivates and harvests the farm produce.

herb is any plant which is used as either a food flavouring agent, or for medicinal or cosmetic purposes. A herb is a plant which produces an essential oil.

homeopathic preparation/treatment means a preparation for the treatment of disease based on the administration of minute, potentised doses of a substance that, in larger amounts, would produce symptoms in healthy animals similar to the disease itself.

ionising radiation means the use of high energy emissions capable of altering a food's molecular structure for the purpose of controlling microbial contaminants, pathogens, parasites and pests in food, preserving food or inhibiting physiological processes such as sprouting and ripening.

labelling means any words, particulars, trademarks, brand names, pictorial matter, symbols or logos, appearing on any packaging, document or label accompanying the produce.

landless production means the specific production methods used to grow mushrooms, sprouts, barley/wheat grass etc. Hydroponic practices are excluded.

livestock means domestic or domesticated aquatic and terrestrial animals, including insects

National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce refers to the document developed by AQIS/OPEC and sets out the basic requirements for organic production standards.

"organic" means produced naturally, in soils with enriched biological activity, determined by the humus level and root structure - such that plants are fed by enhancing the soil ecosystem and not with the addition of soluble salts as fertilisers.

OPEC means the Organic Produce Export Committee established by the Minister for Primary Industries to provide advice on all aspects of organic/biodynamic agriculture.

parallel production means the production of a product which complies with this Standard by a grower who is also producing the same type of product, which does not comply with this Standard.

processor refers to an individual or company, who changes fresh produce to another form (dehydration, freeze drying, extraction, infusion, distillation etc), and/or manufactures another product from that produce.

synthetic chemical means a substance with a defined chemical structure and:

virgin land refers to a parcel of land which has not been cultivated for a minimum of five (5) years.

wild harvested is produce harvested out of natural stands under a management system which has been tested and proven to be free of chemicals.

3. ORGANIC PRODUCTION

“Organic Production” is a farming system which:

3.1 Organic production require farmers to adhere to standards of production methods and material use (as set out in Appendices 1-6).

3.2 Documentation must be maintained so all organic production inputs and produce consignments can be traced.

3.3 Anyone who produces or prepares products and markets them as “organic” must be certified organic.

“Wild Harvest” is the collection of plants, or parts of plants, growing naturally in pristine areas, forests and agricultural areas. To qualify for OGA’s Wild Harvested label the following criteria must be met:

3.4 The wild harvested products are from a clearly defined collection area which is subject to OGA’s inspection system as set out in Chapter Five;

3.5 Those areas have received no treatments with products other than those set out in Appendix 3 and 4;

3.6 The collection does not disturb the stability of the natural habitat – or the maintenance of the species – in the collection area.

3.7 Where the collection area is grazed by livestock, the livestock must be managed in accordance with the provisions of this Standard.

3.8 The wild harvested products must be described as “organic”.

"Landless Production" is a system where plant growth is not directly linked to soil (mushrooms, sprouts etc) but excludes hydroponic production:

3.9 Under this system, no parallel production is permitted.
3.10 The use of any substances not listed in this Standard for pest and disease management or for sanitation purposes will require:
9 porous equipment to be removed from organic production; and/or
10 buildings, areas and impervious equipment to be cleaned down and followed by at least one production cycle that is not labelled as organic or biodynamic; and
11 product will need to be tested before regaining certification.

Mushroom Production

3.11 For mushrooms grown in a natural environment, the requirements under “Wild Harvest of Plant Products” applies.

3.12 Buildings used for mushroom growing must be dedicated to organic production, and the production system must have been under an approved certifying organisation inspection system for at least 12 months to be eligible as organic or biodynamic.

3.13 The use of preventative management, sanitation, proper airflow and removal of spent material must maintain a healthy growing environment. To assist this process, the following methods may be employed:

3.14 Growing equipment/trays must be new or thoroughly sanitised using only those products listed in Appendix 6. No prohibited materials shall have been applied for 12 months prior to filling with the growing medium.

3.15 Cleaning and sterilisation using steam, heating, ethanol and hydrogen peroxide treatment of buildings and equipment is allowed. Other sterilisation or sanitation substances are allowed for buildings, growing containers or any other equipment provided they are listed in Appendix 6.

3.16 Only organically sourced spawn may be used.

Derogation

Where a grower can demonstrate to the Certification Review Committee that material satisfying 3.16 is not available in sufficient quality and quantity, the grower must seek written approval from CRC to use spawn not produced in accordance with this Standard.

3.17 Growing media may only be of untreated wooden logs, untreated sawdust or from materials produced according to the production requirements of this Standard.

Sprouts and Barley/Wheat Grass Production

3.18 In the production of these products the grower must use seed produced according to this Standard.

3.19 Growing areas must be dedicated to organic production.

3.20 Equipment/trays used in the growing and harvesting of such products must be new or thoroughly sanitised using permitted products listed in the Appendix 6.

3.21 Growing media for:

3.22 When using chlorinated tap water for final rinsing, the grower must employ a procedure to remove or reduce chlorine levels in the water.

4. CONVERTING THE FARM

Converting a farm to organic requires the development of a viable and sustainable farm ecosystem over a period of time. The certification process aims to convert the growing area to comply with the requirements of this Standard within a 3-year period.

4.1 Initially, a farm is inspected and a report is lodged with the Certification Review Committee (CRC). If CRC recommends the farm enter the certification system, it will be placed "Under Supervision" for the first 12 months. During this time, produce or products cannot be sold as "Certified Organic" or as "In Conversion to Organic".

4.2 After 12 months, the farm may be upgraded to "In Conversion" if the second inspection is satisfactory. The farm must then complete two years "In Conversion" before it is considered for certifying as "Organic" (otherwise known as "A Grade Organic").

5.  THE INSPECTION SYSTEM

5.1 The Certification Review Committee (CRC) appoints an Organic Inspector to assess the farmer/processor.

5.2 There must not be any commercial interest to the Inspector. Any exchange of samples/gifts must be recorded on OGA’s Gift Register for reporting to AQIS.

5.3 A farmer/processor must make application to OGA to begin the process. They will be provided with a copy of the Standards (OGA & National) and must sign an affidavit which binds them to these Standards and principles. They then complete an OGA questionnaire (Farm Appraisal Form) detailing the history of the land and the growing techniques employed. A similar Organic Handling Questionnaire is provided for processors.

5.4 The (CRC) and the Certification Officer shall review the questionnaire and any misunderstandings and discrepancies shall be clarified.

5.5 The Organic Inspector will arrange and conduct an on-site inspection. The Inspector shall have access to the complete growing/processing area, including sheds, garages and storage areas. If the Inspector has any doubts, they shall be entitled to examine the records of the grower to ascertain that inputs as claimed are verified.

5.6 The Inspector shall perform a physical inspection of the property which will include the defined growing area, processing buildings, packing sheds and all other areas of the property where other farm activities are carried out. Where adjacent activities may compromise the growing conditions of the certified crops, the boundaries must be inspected and — where necessary — a strategy devised to eliminate or reduce any risk of contamination.

5.7 The Inspector shall collect soil/foliage/water samples as required and shall send them to the approved laboratory for chemical residue testing. A report of the sample analysis will be sent to the Certification Officer for inclusion with the Inspector’s report, for discussion at a CRC meeting, and for filing in the grower’s folder. An additional copy of the analysis will be provided to the grower. The reported residue levels, if any, must be below 5% of the accepted Maximum Residue Level (MRL).

5.8 An Organic Inspector shall be entitled to make unannounced visits (a “random inspection”) to the property if requested by CRC. Where the use of unauthorised products or growing techniques is suspected, samples may be taken and tested for traces of these products. In the event that doubt still exists in the Inspector’s opinion, further samples of produce and additional farm inspections may be undertaken, at the grower’s expense.

5.9 A minimum of one farm/process inspection per year will be undertaken.

5.10 Once all the requirements are met and satisfied, the grower is deemed to be in an “Under Supervision” period for 12 months. If, after the second inspection, the Inspector is satisfied that the grower has applied all organic principles, the grower and growing area will be granted the “In Conversion” status for a two-year period and will be issued with a registration number.
During the “Under Supervision” and “In Conversion” periods, the grower must adhere to all requirements as set out in these Standards. Annual inspections will still apply. During the “Under Supervision” period, produce may not be marketed as “organic”. During the “In Conversion” period, the certification number may be used — but not the Organic logo.
Following the two years of “In Conversion” — and assuming all requirements and inspections/testing have been satisfactorily complied with — the grower will be entitled to use OGA’s Certified Organic logo.

5.11 A validated certificate will be issued to all growers/processors who attain the status of Certified Organic. A certification number is to appear on all labels bearing the words “In Conversion to Organic” or “Certified Organic”.

5.12 Once a processor is Certified Organic, they can apply for export certificates. Once a grower reaches In Conversion to Organic, they may apply for export certificates. Please note the OGA sunflower logo is still applicable to A Grade growers only. Please see below for the In Conversion logo. Contact the office for this and seek office approval before printing your labels.



5.13 OGA will keep accurate and confidential records and make these records available, if requested, to AQIS and the Certification Review Committee.

5.14 Random inspections shall be carried out on the basis of 5% of certified farms/processors per annum, as required by the National Standards.

6.  SANCTIONS

6.1 If it is found that produce is no longer grown/processed according to organic principles — or that the land is treated in an unacceptable manner — then the grower/processor will no longer be allowed to use the OGA logo and certification.

6.2 If there is evidence (by the appearance of the growing, storage or production areas) of practices unacceptable under the OGA Organic Standards, the CRC may recommend that the certification status be suspended. During the suspension period, the grower/processor will not be able to sell their produce/product as Certified Organic under the OGA logo, until such time as the situation has been repaired to the satisfaction of the Certification Officer and the CRC.
The grower will be sent a Corrective Action Request (CAR) and will have 30 days to provide an explanation. Upon receipt of a satisfactory explanation, a re-inspection will be organised at the grower/processor’s expense. The Inspector’s report will be tabled at the next CRC meeting for final decision on the grower’s status. The grower will be immediately advised of CRC’s decision in writing.
If, however, no satisfactory explanation is forth-coming within 30 days, the grower and farm (or processor) will be decertified and other certification, marketing and retail bodies will be notified.
Once decertification has taken place, the grower must return their Certificate to the OGA office within 7 days. The grower will not be able to re-apply for certification until one year has lapsed.

6.3 Should the produce/product be independently tested by the Departments of Health, Consumer Affairs or Agriculture (or another such body) — and is found to be contaminated — the grower and their land will be subject to an immediate re-inspection at the grower’s expense.

6.4 If a valid reason for contamination has been given, the grower/processor and produce/product shall not use the logo or certification number until the situation has been satisfactorily repaired to the discretion of the Certification Officer and the CRC.

6.5 If no explanation for the contamination is given, they will be in immediate suspension and will no longer be allowed to use the logo or certification number. The grower/processor will have 30 days in which to appeal the decision.

6.6 In the event of a grower voluntarily discontinuing certification (or in the event of suspension for irregularities which need further investigation), the certification number will be held in reserve and notification given to relevant marketing bodies.

6.7 In the event that a grower’s certification is withdrawn due to violation or suspicion of violation, their name and certification number will be notified to other certifying bodies and relevant marketing bodies.

6.8 Growers/processors must be current financial members of OGA and must keep all certification payments up to date. Any non-payment of fees will result in decertification and/or loss of membership.

7.  LABELLING

7.1 OGA specifies that all produce marketed as “Certified Organic” must bear the OGA “Organic” logo and registration number affixed to the produce or its container.

7.2 Logos may be reproduced in combination with a trade name/farm identification, but may not be used without reference to OGA and must include its proper address.

7.3 Only those members who have been granted “Certified Organic” status (following the “In Conversion” period) may use the OGA Organic logo.

7.4 Those growers who are “In Conversion” must clearly mark their labels “IN CONVERSION”.

7.5 Produce which is grown in a medium other than soil but which, after inspection and testing, is proven to be grown without chemicals, may be marked “organic”.

7.6 Produce harvested out of natural stands under a management system, and tested and proven to be chemical free, may be labelled “organic”.

7.7 The OGA logo is not transferable. Nor may it be used on produce which has not been granted certification, or which may have been affected by outside pollutants.

7.8 The Certification Review Committee must be informed when a product contains non-certified material, to ascertain whether any contamination of the certified product may occur.

7.9 When a product contains non-certified materials, the logo and certification may only be used in the ingredient label to state the certified content and not on the main label or “face” of the product.

8.  PROCESSING/PACKAGING

8.1 All practical measures must be taken to ensure maximum compliance with this Standard.

8.2 The processor must make available a full description of the premises, showing facilities used for processing, packaging and storage.

8.3 Products from farms (or commercially bought goods not subject to inspection standards) should not be processed, packaged or stored in the same premises as this may cause confusion or infringements. Where this is not possible, a separate area must be designated as: “The Organic Holding Area”.

8.4 Written accounts and documents must be kept to enable the Organic Inspector to trace the origin, nature and quantities of herbal goods, agricultural products and all other inputs. Full details must be made available if requested.

8.5 The processor must comply with basic Good Management Practice (GMP) standards.

8.6 Inspection of the premises and products shall be carried out on an annual basis. In the case of unannounced visits, the processor must give full cooperation to the Organic Inspector.

8.7 Irradiation is not permitted for post harvest or quarantine purposes.

8.8 Any processed product which is to be marketed as Certified Organic must be processed by a certified organic processor.

8.9 If a processor wishes to introduce a new sale product between inspections, they are to notify OGA in writing stating: the product name and a list of its ingredients; a verification of the organic ingredients; a list of non-organic ingredients and their percentage (mass/mass) of the total product. OGA may then send the processor an updated Schedule of Products after which the product can then go on sale.

9.    AQUACULTURE

Aquaculture includes many forms of production in fresh, brackish and salt water. This Standard covers aquatic livestock grown from fingerlings or spat, in any form of enclosure under controlled conditions. It does not cover organisms that are harvested from open waters.
Organic or Biodynamic Aquaculture is based on: high quality water entering the system, sound management practices, the use of appropriate stocking rates, consideration of stock welfare, and the use of approved inputs.

9.1 Aquaculture products must be under a system of inspection for at least 12-months before any products can be labelled as organic or biodynamic.

9.2 Breeds adapted to local conditions shall be chosen. Natural breeding behaviour, settlement and hatching are desirable traits.

9.3 Polyploid and genetically engineered aquatic species are not allowed.

9.4 Ample clean water must be provided.

9.5 The certified grower shall ensure that construction materials and production equipment shall not contain synthetic chemicals or substances, which could detrimentally affect the environment or contaminate the certified product.

9.6 There must be adequate room in enclosures for the stock to exhibit natural behaviour such as forming shoals.

9.7 The diet must be suitable for the species and be from any of the following sources:
(a) plant and animal products produced according to this Standard
(b) plankton and zooplankton grown in the organic aquaculture system
(c) nutrients contained within the water supply
(d) disease-free processed waste from wild harvested marine organisms.

9.8 Minerals and vitamins used as feed supplements must be naturally sourced.

9.9 Growers must demonstrate that water and the nutrient load leaving the system will not adversely affect the environment, natural ecology or bio-diversity.

9.10 The use of allopathic veterinary drugs is not permitted in the treatment of organic Aquaculture. Where such a substance is required, the treated pond/tank area(s) affected cannot be used for organic production for a minimum of 12 months. Treated species will lose their organic certification status.

9.11 Capture and handling techniques can stress and damage stock. Aquatic stock should be handled as little as practical and fish shall not be out of water for more than 30 seconds during any handling procedure.

9.12 The use of synthetic chemical tranquillisers is not permitted.

9.13 Oil of cloves or ice slurry or carbon dioxide is permitted for the sedation of fish, for pre-slaughter or transportation purposes.
Any sorting or moving of aquatic stock must be recorded.

10. BEE PRODUCTS

Organically managed bees should be limited in their foraging to organically managed and naturally occurring flora.. Bees are to be managed humanely and product integrity is to be maintained throughout all stages of production and processing. In relation to the placement of hives, the certified grower should take into consideration the impact on the indigenous insect population.
Growers are encouraged to obtain their queen bees from organic sources.

10.1 Hives must be under a system of inspection for at least 12-months before any products can be labelled as organic or biodynamic.

10.2 Due to the long distances that foraging bees may travel, it is often impossible to limit foraging activities to organic floral sources. Apiaries must be placed on sites where the grower can monitor all activities that may affect colonies.

10.3 Growers must demonstrate that hive locations are in foraging areas more than five kilometres distant from any prohibited substances which may be derived from, but not limited to:
(a) flower-bearing crops that are treated with pesticides not permitted by this Standard, or genetically engineered and/or modified organisms or their products; or
(b) urban or industrial activities; or
(c) waste sites.

10.4 Records must be kept on the number, location (including maps), condition and management of colonies. These shall be used as part of the documented proof of maintaining organic integrity as well as preventing disease and pest problems.

10.5 Bee colonies must be provided with a continuous supply of clean water and sufficient forage throughout the season. The food source must fulfil the nutritional needs and good health of the colony.

10.6 Feeding of hives is only allowed under extreme climatic or other extenuating circumstances and, in such cases, only organic honey tested free of American Fowl Brood disease can be used.

Derogation

The grower must seek permission from the approved certifying organisation to allow:

(a) the use of honey not produced in accordance with this Standard
(b) the relocation of hives to sites not complying with Clause 10.2.

After such event the first extraction cannot be not sold as organic or biodynamic.

10.7 Where queen bees, package bees or nucleus colonies are purchased from non-organic sources, the first extraction shall not be labelled and marketed as an organic product.

10.8 Particle board and/or toxic wood preservatives and coatings shall not be used in hive construction or maintenance.

10.9 To retain its quality and composition, honey shall not be heated to temperatures greater than 45°C.

10.10 During extraction and storage, surfaces in direct contact with honey shall be constructed of food grade materials.

10.11 The removal of honey or bee-products must not involve the destruction of the colony.

10.12 Bees shall be removed from hives by the use of bee escape boards, shaking, brushing, forced air blowers, or smoker fuel derived from natural, unprocessed substances.

10.13 Wing clipping is not allowed.

10.14 For pest and disease control or hive disinfecting, only the following products may be used:

10.15 Botanical compounds may be introduced into the hive (eg menthol, vegetable oils, essential/etheric oils, and herbal teas). However, such remedies shall not be used within thirty days of honey flow, or whenever honey supers are on the hive.

10.16 The use of synthetic antibiotics in honey production is prohibited except where the imminent health of the colony is threatened. Before such treatments, the hive(s) shall be removed from the foraging area and taken out of organic production to prevent the spread of antibiotics within the remaining apiary. Bee products harvested for the next twelve months following the use of such antibiotics shall not be certified organic and foundation wax must be replaced.

10.17 Comb honey is only eligible for certification if the foundation used was certified as organic or biodynamic.

10.18 Wax will only be certified if it comes from either cappings, or melted down combs where certified foundation was used in their generation.

11.  LIVESTOCK

Livestock make an important contribution to an organic farm by improving the fertility of the soil, controlling weeds through grazing, and increasing farm diversity. Organic livestock are those born and raised on organic farms. Their management revolves around natural breeding methods plus ongoing selection for pest and disease resistance. Their health and welfare is governed by access to healthy land and water and humane methods of handling and transport.

11 (a)   GENERAL

1. Stocking rates for livestock must be appropriate for the region, taking into consideration feed production capacity, health, nutrient balance, and environmental impact.

2. Any livestock kept on an organic or biodynamic farm must be managed according to this Standard, and must be rotated in a crop/pasture management system.

3. Livestock must be able to range freely on pasture. All livestock must have an adequate supply of clean water.

4. Livestock must be managed to avoid problems of over-grazing, erosion and to minimise the effects of manure concentration on the environment.


11 (b)   CONVERSION OF LIVESTOCK AND LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS

1. Livestock products can only carry the same in-conversion or organic or biodynamic labelling status as currently held by the production unit.

2. Livestock used for organic or biodynamic products must be born or hatched on farms that comply with this Standard. Such livestock must remain on organic or biodynamic holdings to maintain their organic or biodynamic status. .

3. Carcases of livestock born before a farm is subject to inspection and certification must not be presented or sold as biodynamic, organic or in-conversion.



Derogation

Where a grower can demonstrate that certified sources of livestock are not available, conventionally produced livestock may be introduced on to the production unit. Conversion requirements for such livestock product to be sold as Organic, Biodynamic or In-Conversion are listed in Table 1.


Produce

Requirements for organic certification

Wool

From 18 months after entering the system

Milk

From 180 days after entering the system

Eggs

From chicks up to 2 days old entering the system

Poultry & meat from game birds

From chicks up to 2 days old entering the system

Ruminant and mono-gastric animals for meat

From last trimester (excludes embryo transfer and clones)

Aquaculture

From fingerling form

4. Any livestock introduced from outside sources, other than certified organic livestock, must be quarantined from organic stock and the production system for a minimum period of three weeks. For a period of at least twelve months after quarantine, such areas shall only be used for livestock production. Crops labelled as organic or biodynamic intended for human consumption may be grown on the area after this period.


11 (c) LIVESTOCK BREEDS AND BREEDING

The choice of breeds, strains and breeding methods should be consistent with the principles of organic farming, taking into account: their adaptation to local conditions, their vitality and resistance to disease, and the absence of specific diseases or health problems associated with some breeds and strains.
Natural breeding methods are consistent with organic principles. Artificial insemination is not recommended.
The following techniques are not permitted:

11 (d) LIVESTOCK NUTRITION

The organic livestock diet is designed to ensure quality production under sustainable systems while meeting the nutritional requirements of the livestock.

1. Livestock systems shall provide 100% of the diet from feed produced according to this Standard, and:

(a) for livestock products to be labelled as organic or biodynamic, the livestock diet must be sourced from organic or biodynamic feed.
(b) feeding any portion of in-conversion feed will result in the labelling of animal products as in-conversion.
Not withstanding the above:
(c) Feed produced and stored from the same production unit during the in-conversion period may be fed to organic and biodynamic livestock without them losing their organic or biodynamic status.
(d) Stored feed produced before the production unit was placed under an inspection system cannot be used for biodynamic or organic livestock.

2. Livestock must be provided with a wide variety of food natural to their diet. Force-feeding of animals is prohibited.

3. In order to satisfy their nutritional requirements, livestock should have free access to mineral supplements (e.g. mineral licks, shell-grit, trace elements of mineral origin).

4. Feed supplements of agricultural origin must be of certified organic or biodynamic origin.



Derogation

If this is unavailable, then the approved certifying organisation may allow the use of product that does not comply with this Standard provided that:

(a) it is free from prohibited substances or contaminants, and
(b) it constitutes no more than 5% of the animal diet on an annual basis.


5. Feed supplements of non-agricultural origin can include minerals, trace elements, vitamins or pro-vitamins only if from natural sources.

6. Where feed rations are prepared, the agricultural origin component must consist of in-conversion, or organic, or biodynamic products and be labelled accordingly. Components of non-agricultural origin used to supplement feed rations include:

(a) Binders, anti-caking agents, emulsifiers, stabilisers, thickeners, surfactants, coagulants only if from natural sources.

(b) Marine products of plant origin.

7. Prohibited feed products include, but are not limited to the following:

(a) antibiotics, coccidiostats, medicinal substances, growth promoters or any other substance intended to stimulate growth or production.
(b) amino acid isolates.
(c) non-protein nitrogen compounds (eg. urea).
(d) GMO products or their derivatives.

8. The feeding of products and by-products of a species - excluding milk and milk products to ruminants - to the same species is strictly prohibited.

9. The grazing of animals in natural/rangeland areas is considered part of an organic production system provided it meets the requirements of this Standard and the:

(a) animals are managed according to this Standard; and
(b) soil structure in identifiably degraded areas must be re-developed and re-mediated to reflect natural soil structure; and
(c) grazing and land management activities do not disturb the stability or sustainability of the natural ecosystem; and
(d) monitoring of re-establishment and/or maintenance of the original native species must be undertaken; and
(e) in-conversion, or organic or biodynamic livestock cannot be grazed with animals whose routine management is not according to this Standard.



Derogation

In situations of extreme climatic or other extenuating circumstances (such as fires, floods, etc) an exemption for the feeding of organic/biodynamic foodstuff to certified livestock might be granted by the approved certifying organisation. In such a situation:

(a) where in-conversion feed is sourced, the organic or biodynamic status of the livestock is unaffected.
(b) livestock receiving feed that does not comply with this Standard must be fed on feed complying with this Standard for a consecutive six-month period before regaining organic or biodynamic status. Residue testing of certified livestock by-products maybe required before any organic or biodynamic status is regained.


11 (e)   DISEASE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

The application of management practices suitable to the requirements of each species encourages strong resistance to disease and the prevention of infections. The provision of adequate and high quality feed produced in accordance with this Standard encourages the natural immunological defence of livestock. The reliance on substances rather than management practices for the control of pests and diseases is not in accordance with organic farming principles.


1. Organic livestock health shall be maintained through any or all of the following:

(a) selection of appropriate breeds or strains of animals; and
(b) rotational grazing management; and
(c) ensuring an appropriate density of livestock, thus avoiding animal health problems, overstocking and land degradation.
(d) the provision of adequate and high quality feed produced in accordance with this Standard.


2. Products listed in Appendix 5 of this Standard are permitted only where the practices of 11(e)1 are, or would be, insufficient.

3. If despite all preventative measures, an animal becomes sick or injured it must immediately have appropriate treatment.

4. The use of medicinal remedies under organic management practices must comply with the following procedure:

(a) In the first instance, the provision of phyto-therapeutic (eg plant extracts/essences etc) or homeopathic products (eg plant, animal or mineral substances), or
(b) If the above products are not successful and are unlikely to become effective in combating illness or injury – and further treatment is essential to avoid suffering or distress to the animal – allopathic veterinary drugs or antibiotics may be used in accordance with veterinary direction.

5. The use of veterinary drugs on livestock in the absence of illness is prohibited.

6. Where specific disease or health problems occur and no alternative permissible treatment or management practice exists under this Standard, or where treatment is required by law; the following applies:

(a) Therapeutic use of allopathic veterinary drugs or antibiotics is permitted. After such treatment, livestock cannot be sold as organic or biodynamic. Their products and/or their progeny can be marketed as organic or biodynamic after a minimum management period as outlined in Table 1 of 11 (b) 3.
(b) Livestock treated with substances not listed in this Standard must be identified and quarantined from other livestock for at least three times the withholding period or three weeks, which ever is the greater, specified for the treatment under relevant laws.
(c) For a period of at least twelve months after quarantine, such areas shall only be used for livestock production. Crops labelled as organic or biodynamic intended for human consumption can be grown on the area after this period.

7. Use of vaccines is permitted only where the grower can demonstrate that management practices are insufficient to guard against disease and illness.

8. Caution must be applied when using allopathic veterinary drugs as some medications (especially vaccines) may contain GMO or GMO derived substances. Where such medications are derived from GMO production, the animal(s) and/or their produce will never regain in-conversion, organic or biodynamic certification status.

11 (f)   LIVESTOCK WELFARE

1. The welfare of livestock is paramount and Commonwealth, State and Territory legislative requirements must be observed.

2. Living conditions must provide for the natural needs of the animal for free movement, including free ranging during daylight hours, food, water, shelter and shade.

3. Surgical treatments permitted under this Standard are:

(a) castration.
(b) tail docking of lambs.
(c) de-horning.
(d) placement of nose rings in bulls.
(e) mulesing, for breeds that require mulesing.
(f) removable nose rings for pigs.
(g) veterinary surgery with the use of anaesthetic.
(h) ear tagging, micro-chipping.

4. The use of anaesthetics will not result in loss of organic or biodynamic status.

5. Pain inflicted by surgical treatments must be kept to a minimum level and duration.

6. The slaughter of livestock must be undertaken in a manner that minimises the effects of stress and suffering and be in accordance with the relevant Codes of Animal Welfare Practice.


11 (g)     LIVESTOCK HOUSING

The producer of organic or biodynamic livestock should provide shelter because of: the conditions under which the health, safety and well being of the animal could be jeopardised; inclement weather; or the animal’s stage of pregnancy.

Where housing is provided, the building construction must satisfy the biological and behavioural needs of livestock including freedom of movement and comfort as well as protection from climatic extremes and predators.


1. While housed, livestock must have access to sufficient feed and clean water.

2. All buildings used to house livestock must allow for plentiful ventilation and natural light.

3. Because artificial lighting severely interferes with an animal’s natural life cycles, it is not to be used to boost production.

4. Manure, urine and uneaten or spilt feed must be removed as often as necessary to minimise unpleasant odours and avoid attracting pests. Only products listed in Appendix I Annex D are permitted for pest control.

5. Stocking density in buildings shall provide comfort and well-being for the confined livestock; allowing sufficient space to stand naturally, lie down easily, turn around, groom themselves, assume all natural postures and make all natural movements such as stretching and wing flapping.

6. Where livestock are housed, the minimum “on ground” density shall comply with the following, for:

(a) small to medium ruminant animals, not less than 1.5 sq m for every animal; or
(b) medium to large ruminant animals, not less than 3 sq m for every animal on ground; or
(c) small to medium mono-gastric animals, not less than 1.5 sq m for every animal; or
(d) medium to large mono-gastric animals, not less than 3 sq m for every animal; or
(e) avian species:
(i) poultry, not less than 1 sq m for every 5 birds including the roosting area; or
(ii) ducks, geese, housing is not necessary after the agnostic stage however shelter for shade purposes is required; or
(iii) turkeys, not less than 1 sq m for every 2 birds on ground; or
(iv) emu, ostrich, housing is not necessary.

7. Housing, pens, equipment and utensils must be cleaned and disinfected to prevent cross-infection and the build-up of disease carrying organisms. Only those products listed in Appendix 6 are permitted for sanitation purposes.

8. Where required, floor litter material must be provided from untreated sources. If this litter material is consumed by the species housed, the material must comply with the feed requirements outlined in this Standard.


11 (h)     LIVESTOCK HANDLING

1. Loading and transport management must be carried out so as to limit stress and injury to livestock.

2. Transport vehicles must be dedicated to the transport of organic stock and/or be cleaned before loading organic stock. Livestock that does not comply with this Standard must be segregated from stock that complies with this Standard.

3. Handling shall be in accordance with the relevant Commonwealth, State or Territory codes of animal welfare practice.

4. The use of any type of electrical stimulation to coerce animals is prohibited.

5. The use of any synthetic chemical tranquillisers is prohibited.

11 (i)      LIVESTOCK IDENTIFICATION

1. Livestock and livestock products must be identifiable at all stages of their production, preparation, transport and marketing.

2. Medication of livestock shall be recorded, with treated stock clearly identified. This record shall contain details concerning all treatments, including, but not limited to:

(a) substance and trade name of medication used, and
(b) the active and inert ingredients of the substances used, and
(c) the duration of treatment.

3. The grower must record the “method of disposal” of all by-products from treated livestock.

11 (j)    LIVESTOCK MANURE

1. Manure management shall be implemented in a manner that optimises recycling of nutrients; while minimising soil and water degradation.

2. All manure storage and handling facilities, including composting facilities, shall be designed, constructed and operated to prevent contamination of ground and/or surface water.

3. Manure storage facilities shall exceed the immediate storage requirement to also provide storage for periods in which application of manure to land is not possible.

FARMING PRINCIPLES

Normally, these principles must apply to the land for at least 3 years before the marketing of products as Certified Organic.

A reduced period may be applicable (subject to certain conditions as outlined in these standards). The CRC may consider a recommendation of an Organic Inspector to reduce the “In Conversion” period — but is not bound to do so.

If the Inspector is not satisfied that the grower has sufficient knowledge of organic principles, or that satisfactory organic management practices have been applied, or the growing area shows no improvement in soil structure and fertility, then the “In Conversion” period may be extended beyond two years.

The fertility and biological activity of the soil must be maintained or increased by any one — or a combination — of the methods endorsed by OGA, such as:


Pests, diseases and weeds may be controlled by any one, or a combination, of the measures endorsed by OGA, such as:

CERTIFICATION OF ADDITIONAL LAND

Where a Certified Organic operator (Grade A) buys a new farm which has never been certified, they may apply to the Certification Review Committee for an exemption of the “Under Supervision” year requirement for the new land.

If successful, this would ratify the new land’s status as “In Conversion (first year)” meaning its products could immediately trade on the organic market with an OGA registration number.

 

OGA believes that once a farmer has qualified for the status of Certified Organic, they need not undergo the Supervision period again. However, any such exemption would depend on the quality and status of the new land.

For CRC to consider a claim for exemption, the following requirements for the new land must be met:

1. A satisfactory soil test for chemical residues
2. A satisfactory soil analysis (nutrient) for organic production
3. A satisfactory farm inspection – which must also ensure there is no evidence of chemical use
4. The new land to be owned/managed by a Certified Organic (Grade A) operator.


If all these criteria have been met, CRC may then decide whether to upgrade the status of the new land. In some cases, if still uncertain, CRC may require additional tests or inspections before making its final decision.


WEED CONTROL

A good organic farming system utilises sound management practices (instead of poisons) to reduce the impact of unwanted plants around the farm. Some examples are:

No commercial carpet or underfelt is to be used due to the risk of contamination from chemicals (such as dieldrin). No synthetic chemicals are to be used.

SEEDS AND SEEDLINGS

Only open pollinated, non-hybrid seed varieties and seedlings from organic stock are acceptable. No chemically-treated seeds are allowed.

However, if a grower can demonstrate non-availability of organic stock, they may seek OGA’s dispensation to use non-organic seeds or seedlings in the first growing season. The following crops must be grown from seeds or seedlings from their own organic stock.

No genetically altered or engineered seed or plant material is allowed.

FARMING INPUTS

A developed organic farm will operate within a closed system to the maximum extent possible. Inputs from outside the farm should be kept to an absolute minimum and used on the basis of need only.

Proper design and good farm management techniques are essential.

Organic material, produced by the grower, should be returned to the soil to increase and maintain proper humus content.

Where materials are brought onto the farm from outside, they should be from a certified organic property or a certified processor. If not, they must undergo a heated composting method. (This does not apply to mulch. However, non-certified mulch might contain enough chemical contamination to void a certification. This activity is at the growers’ risk so OGA recommends such mulch be independently tested before purchase.)

Organic matter is best added to the soil surface or shallowly incorporated into the soil.
If manure is not being composted (ie if they chooks are being run free range), then the farmer would need to grow two consecutive green manure crops and turn them in before growing vegetables/small crops in the area. (This does not apply to fruit trees.)

The acceptable input lists in the following appendices are subject to continual review. The presence of a particular item on the list does not mean that it is safe or recommended. If in doubt, contact OGA’s Certification Officer.

Any product used must comply with all Commonwealth and State legislation.

Note: Some natural herbicides (such as those based on pine oils) are still toxic and their use is not recommended. However, if they are required for limited application, the must not be used in any certified production area. Any use must be fully documented for annual auditing.

SOIL FERTILISING & CONDITIONING

Acceptable materials for soil fertilising and conditioning are:

If buying products containing the above, care must be taken that they are not manufactured using unacceptable methods or substances (eg urea as nitrogen in seaweed products).

Repeated use of any product has the potential to introduce unwanted residues and contaminants. Use all inputs in moderation, so as not to upset the natural balance and structure of the soil.


PLANT PEST & DISEASE CONTROL

A properly designed farm, incorporating companion planting techniques, is essential to good pest management. If a problem does occur, OGA recommends that only a deterrent (like garlic extract) be used in the first instance.
Only as a last resort, should a stronger control be used. Care should be taken with these inputs, as they may also be harmful to beneficial insects. Some of them may change the soil structure or balance with repeated use (eg copper in Bordeaux).
Acceptable materials for plant pest and disease control are:


LIVESTOCK PEST & DISEASE CONTROL

Where wetting agents are required, caution needs to be exercised with commercial formulations as these may contain substances prohibited under this Standard. Acceptable wetting agents include some seaweed products, plant products (including oils) and natural soaps.

Livestock pest control
Acceptable materials for livestock pest control are:
Substances Specific conditions/restrictions


Livestock disease control
Acceptable materials for livestock disease control are:

Note: Veterinary products for diseases like pulpy kidney, blackleg etc (vaccines such as “5-in-1”) may be used for livestock – but only where there is a demonstrated problem. Many such diseases may be seasonal – or may be bred away from – so growers should never automatically use such treatments each year. Any use of these treatments must be fully documented for annual auditing.

SANITATION, STORAGE & HANDLING

Growers and processors will select cleaners, sanitisers, and disinfectants based on avoidance of residual contamination, rapid biodegradability, low toxicity, worker safety, and a life-cycle impact of their manufacture, use, and disposal.
Endocrine disrupting, ozone depleting, and trihalomethane-forming compounds used in sanitation chemicals are prohibited.

Substances permitted as sanitation treatments include:

The use of any of the above substances will be followed by a thorough rinse of the area/equipment using potable water.

Cleaning and sanitising chemicals will be used and stored in such a manner so as to avoid cross-contamination to organic and biodynamic produce.