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CERTIFICATION SERVICES

Strengthening Organic Enforcement USDA Rule

The Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Rule is regulation put forth by the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) that was published on January 19, 2023.This is the most significant change to the national organic regulations since the creation of the NOP. The rule is intended to safeguard confidence in organic products and minimize fraud throughout the organic supply chain. All operations – including both currently certified and newly impacted uncertified handlers of organic products – should become familiar with the changes. The SOE Rule was fully implemented on March 19, 2024. 

 

Who will be impacted and how?

Many operations working in the organic industry will be impacted. All operations involved in organic are encouraged to review the regulations.

 

Currently certified operations will be notified of requirements via our newsletter and on their CCOF compliance report.

Handlers & Processors

including currently uncertified private label brand owners, brokers, traders, wholesalers, distributors, storage facilities, transporters, importers, exporters, and others.

Learn more

CCOF SOE Resources

CCOF's Organic Certification Self-Assessment

to better understand how the rule apples to uncertified operations
Organic Certification Self-Assessment

Exempt Handler Affidavit

used by CCOF certified clients to request review of potentially exempt handlers in their networks
Exempt Handler Affidavit

What to know about SOE Flyer

for CCOF certified clients to share with uncertified operations in their networks
What to know about SOE Flyer

Organic Fraud Prevention Plan Worksheet

for CCOF certified handlers
Organic Fraud Prevention Plan Worksheet
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CCOF's SOE video series outlining impacts per operation type and next steps

SOE Related Certification News

Additional Resources