USDA Organic
US federal standard for food and farming grown without synthetic pesticides or GMOs.
What it is
USDA Organic is regulated by the National Organic Program under the US Department of Agriculture. Certified products contain ≥95% organic ingredients (for the 'Organic' seal) or ≥70% (for the 'Made With Organic' label). Synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, sewage sludge, GMOs and ionising radiation are prohibited.
How it's verified
Farms and handlers submit an Organic System Plan, undergo annual on-site inspection by USDA-accredited certifying agents, and keep detailed records. Soil must be managed without prohibited substances for three years before certification.
What to look for
The green-and-white USDA Organic seal. For imported foods, equivalent programs (EU Organic, JAS Japan) may apply.
Watch out for
'Natural', 'all-natural' and 'farm-fresh' are unregulated. 'Made with organic ingredients' is weaker than 'Organic'. Check which tier the product qualifies under.
What it doesn't cover
USDA Organic does not address fair labour, fair pricing, water use, packaging or carbon footprint. It also permits 'organic' synthetic pesticides on the National List (e.g. copper-based fungicides) which can have ecological impact.
Top USDA Organic-certified products
The highest-scoring products in our database that carry USDA Organic certification.
A gold-standard pantry staple sourced from regenerative agroforestry projects in Sri Lanka that prioritizes soil health and fair wages.
A 100% farmer-owned coffee cooperative model that eliminates middlemen to ensure maximum profits return to the growers in Peru.
The ultimate gold standard in ethical body care, this concentrated liquid soap features 18 uses and an uncompromising commitment to fair trade and regenerative agriculture.
The ultimate multi-tasking cleaning staple with an uncompromising commitment to fair trade and environmental regenerative practices.
A highly potent, regeneratively grown turmeric supplement that prioritizes soil health and fair labor above all else.
Protect delicate skin with Dr. Bronner's Organic Magic Balm, a USDA Organic and Fair Trade multi-purpose ointment providing deep hydration for seasonal gifting
A small-batch, handcrafted ointment for paws and skin using 100% human-grade organic ingredients and plastic-free packaging.
A buttery-soft, GOTS-certified organic cotton plush toy made in a fair-trade facility in Egypt, perfect for sensitive newborns.
A benchmark for regenerative agriculture, this nutty, aromatic oil supports smallholder farmers in Sierra Leone while actively sequestering carbon.
Frequently asked
Is organic always pesticide-free?+
No. Organic farming permits certain naturally derived pesticides from the National List, including copper sulfate, pyrethrin and sulphur. Residue levels are typically much lower than conventional but not zero.
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