Website of the UK government

Organic certification

The use of the word “organic” is controlled by law and can only be used on food products if they are produced according to regulations. Farmers and processors producing organic food must be certified by an approved organisation.

• Defra - Organic standards (PDF document, 434k) Opens new window

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• Full list of authorised certification bodies Opens new window

As well as the standards set out in regulations for organic food there are private standards used by authorised bodies for other products. These include textiles, cosmetics, wood products and composts. Compliance with these standards is dealt with under general consumer protection law.

Finding organic products

There is no requirement to display a logo.  However, the certification number must be shown when products are labelled as organic (eg “Organic Certification: UK 1”).

Two examples of organic logos are shown here.

• Soil Association Opens new window

• Organic Farmers and Growers Opens new window