OCA Speculates On Organic Certification Fraud

Reports released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program (NOP) of its audit on organic certification firms may have found that some organic certifiers are either committing fraud or making simple mistakes, the Organic Consumer Association (OCA) reported.

The five-year audit found that 14 certifiers had their accreditation renewed, while 14 others must correct “non-compliance” before being granted renewal.  The NOP said in the report it will not take any “adverse action” against certifiers with “non-compliances."

The OCA argues that the report suggests that USDA is admitting numerous violations of organic standards are taking place, thus suggesting organic fraud is increasing.

Source: Organic Consumer Association, Did USDA Audits on Organic Certifiers Find Fraud or Simple Mistakes?