2009 Organic Certification Instructions for New Processors/Handlers
The following forms are for processing and handling operations seeking certification, and not for producers who are currently certified.
Everyone applying for certification, no matter what they process or where, must complete the following three forms:
▪ Certification Application (Step 2 below)
▪ Fees Form (Step 3 below)
▪ Organic Producers' Endorsement (Affidavit)
Everyone will also need to complete SUPPLEMENT forms, and the required supplements will vary depending on what is being produced for organic certification. The steps below have been designed to help you determine what forms you need to complete.
New processors applicants are accepted year round.
2009 Certification Process
STEP 1.
Read the 2009 PRACTICE MANUAL (download links below). It explains what practices are permitted, and what practices are prohibited. It describes the certification process, fees, and refund policies. It also contains handy information like the National Organic Program Rule.
▪ The 2009 Practice Manual - MOFGA Certification Services' own guide for certification (PDF Format, 370 Kb size)
▪ Appendix - USDA National Organic Program (NOP) including National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances
Please download and read both.
STEP 2.
Complete the CERTIFICATION APPLICATION (PDF Format, 95 Kb size). This is a basic application form that is to be filled out by everyone. It provides us with contact information for you, as well as marketing information for your products. Completing this form will also help you determine what supplements you will need to complete.
STEP 3.
Complete the FEES FORM (PDF Format, 80 Kb size). This is a green form in the paper packet. The basic fee schedule is on the form. Information about additional fees is presented in the Practice Manual. Please don't forget that processors must pay the additional $100 processor fee.
STEP 4.
If you are entirely or primarily not a farm but you are a manufacturer/processor/handler of organic agricultural products you have to complete an Organic handling form. This form also includes an organic product profile worksheet. We'll need one of these each different product you want certified, so make copies if you have multiple products. Don't forget to attach your product labels.
STEP 5.
All applicants for certification or certification renewal need to sign the ORGANIC PRODUCERS' ENDORSEMENT
LAST STEP
The LOGO USE FORM should be completed if you intend to use MOFGA's Certified Organic Logo.
Please make a COPY of your completed application for your files before you mail it. Make sure that you have signed the Organic Producers' Endorsement, and that you have enclosed a check or money order for the appropriate fees. Please contact anyone at MCS if you have any questions. (PDF Format, 86 Kb size). The same individuals listed on the Certification Application need to sign this document. There is a limit of two individuals that may appear on the certificate.