National Organic Standards Board
Stored: National Organic Standards Board
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National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) is an advisory board that helps shape the USDA's organic regulations by making recommendations on substances used in organic farming, processing, and handling. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the organic label.
Mission
The NOSB's mission is to provide recommendations to the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture on matters related to the National Organic Program (NOP). This includes determining which materials can be used in organic production, ensuring these substances meet standards for environmental impact, human health, and compatibility with organic principles. The NOSB also reviews changes to organic regulations and advises on new standards to keep the organic certification process credible and consumer-focused.[1]
Parent organization
NOSB operates under the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), which is part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). AMS manages the National Organic Program, which oversees the organic certification process.[2]
Legislation
The NOSB was established by the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, which is part of the 1990 Farm Bill, to ensure uniform national standards for organic agriculture.[3]
Partners
- Organic producers, handlers, and certifiers
- Environmental and consumer advocacy groups
- Academic and research institutions[4]
Number of employees
The NOSB consists of 15 appointed members representing various sectors of the organic community.[5]
Organization structure
The board includes members from organic farming, handling, environmental protection, consumer/public interest, retailing, science, and certification sectors.
Leader
The NOSB is led by a Chair, elected by the members to guide the board's activities.
Divisions
NOSB has several subcommittees, focusing on:
- Crops
- Livestock
- Handling
- Materials/GMO
- Compliance, Accreditation, and Certification
List of programs
- Review of substances for the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances
- Development of guidance documents
- Recommendations on organic standards and policies
Last total enacted budget
Specific budget details for NOSB are not publicly detailed; funding is part of the AMS's National Organic Program budget.
Staff
The NOSB does not have dedicated staff; support is provided by AMS/NOP personnel.
Funding
Funding for NOSB's operations comes from the USDA's AMS budget allocated to the National Organic Program.
Services provided
NOSB provides critical oversight and recommendations for the organic sector, focusing on the materials allowed in organic agriculture, standards for production, and the integrity of the organic label.
Regulations overseen
While NOSB does not directly oversee regulations, its recommendations significantly influence the development and amendment of organic standards under the NOP.
Headquarters address
1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20250, United States
History
Established in 1992 following the Organic Foods Production Act, NOSB has been integral in defining what constitutes organic in the U.S., ensuring that organic regulations evolve with scientific and market developments.[6]
External links
References
- ↑ USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. "National Organic Standards Board". USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/nosb (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. "About AMS". USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, https://www.ams.usda.gov/about-ams (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA National Organic Program. "Organic Foods Production Act of 1990". USDA National Organic Program, https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/Organic%20Foods%20Production%20Act%20of%201990.pdf (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ Posts found on X discussing NOSB's role in maintaining organic standards.
- ↑ USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. "National Organic Standards Board; Membership". USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/nosb/membership (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA National Organic Program. "History of the National Organic Program". USDA National Organic Program, https://www.ams.usda.gov/about-ams/programs-offices/national-organic-program/history (accessed February 8, 2025).