USDA Organic Certification Explained
United States · Established 2002
Cruelty-Free Certification Organic food, farming, cosmetics (voluntary)
Audit Level: Third-Party Audit
An independent third party conducts an audit of the brand's facilities or documentation. More rigorous than self-declaration.
Supply-chain verified: Yes.
| Supply Chain | Verified |
| Cost for Brands | Cost-share programmes available. Certification fees vary by certifier. |
| Recognized In | USARecognised equivalent in many countries |
Editorial Analysis
The US federal organic standard. Certified by USDA-accredited certifiers. Four labelling levels: '100% Organic', 'Organic' (95%+), 'Made with Organic' (70%+), and ingredient listing. Does not certify vegan status. Does not regulate animal testing in cosmetics. A small number of cosmetics brands use the USDA Organic seal on high organic ingredient percentage products.
Summary
Type
Cruelty-Free
Established
2002
Origin
United States
Scope
Organic food, farming, cosmetics (voluntary)