Website of the UK government

Organic certification

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

• Defra - Organic standards (PDF document, 434k) Opens new window
• Help with PDF files
• 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 like textiles, cosmetics, wood products and composts. Compliance with these standards is dealt with under general consumer protection law.

Organic labels

There is no requirement to display a logo, but the certification number must be used in the labelling of certified organic products (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