Why the trader must be certified
The organic status of a product is preserved only if every link in the supply chain is under control. The trader is the link between the producer and the consumer. That is why the regulation requires the trader to be able to prove the origin and integrity of every batch.
Main requirements
- Supplier checks: before purchase, you check whether the supplier has a valid certificate covering the specific product. Certificates can be checked in the public databases of the EU and the MAF.
- Receipt of goods: on every delivery, you check the integrity of the packaging, the label and the accompanying documents and record the result. A consignment without a document is not sold as organic until the matter is clarified.
- Transport and packaging: products are transported in closed packaging or containers so that substitution of the contents is impossible. An exception is allowed between certified operators under certain conditions.
- Storage: organic products are stored separately from conventional ones and are clearly identified. Warehouses are cleaned with permitted products.
- Documents: registers of purchases, sales and stock that allow a balance of quantities for each product.
- Labelling: if you pack or label under your own brand, the label must meet the requirements of the regulation and be agreed with us.
Exemption from certification
Regulation (EU) 2018/848 allows certain retailers to be exempted (Article 34(2) and Article 35(8)). If you are a retailer selling prepacked organic products directly to the final consumer, you do not need a certificate. If you store, repack, import or also sell to other traders, the exemption does not apply.
Online trade
The obligations for online trade are the same: traceability, documents, correct description of the products. The online shop must be included in the scope of your certificate, and products may be presented as organic only if they are certified.
What is inspected on site
Control is mainly documentary. The inspector checks the supplier certificates, the batches in the registers of purchases and sales, the warehouse stock and the storage conditions. They trace selected batches from the supplier to the customer and draw up a balance of quantities.
Documents
- application, contract and annual production programme;
- a list of suppliers and copies of their certificates;
- registers of purchases, sales and warehouse stock;
- records of the checks on receipt of goods;
- labels (where you pack yourself).
How the process works
Enquiry or application
- you describe the products, the suppliers and how you sell.
Offer and contract
- we calculate the price and conclude a contract. You notify the MAF within 10 days.
Documents
- you submit the production programme and the list of suppliers.
On-site inspection
- documentary check at the office and the warehouse.
Decision and certificate
- the certificate is renewed every year.
Price
The fee consists of a basic annual fee and an hourly rate for the control time, which depends on the volume of products and the number of sites. The exact amounts are in our price list.
Private standards and markets
- Bio Suisse - certification of traders and warehouses in the supply chain for Switzerland.
- KRAV - verification for the Swedish market.
- NOP (USDA) - certificates for export to the USA for every consignment.