OMRI.org determines the inputs to be used in organic production
Title
OMRI - Organic Materials Review Institute
Description
The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that specializes in the review of substances for use in organic production, processing, and handling. OMRI's Board of Directors is broadly representative of the industry segments with members distributed among certifiers, farmers, suppliers, processors, handlers, consumer organizations, and animal welfare and environmental groups. OMRI's services are directed to all aspects of the organic industry with a primary focus on the decision makers who deal with the compliance status of generic materials and brand name products. With the OMRI Generic Materials List and OMRI Products List, OMRI provides guidance on the suitability of material inputs under the USDA National Organic Program standards.
OMRI conducts materials review according to the standards established with implementation of the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) in October 2002. Materials that are allowed or prohibited by the NOP Rule's National List are compiled in the OMRI Generic Materials List in a cross-referenced format organized under the three modes of production - crops, livestock, and processing. Policy determinations relating to material standards are made by the OMRI Board, which seeks guidance on scientific and technical issues from the OMRI Advisory Council. The Advisory Council serves as an independent body designed to provide a balanced representation of expertise on the scientific, technical, and industry aspects of standard setting.
Materials review is conducted as a transparent, third-party review of products intended for use in certified organic production, handling, and processing. After review by OMRI staff, applications are submitted to an independent Review Panel of experts who evaluate a product's compliance with the NOP National List. Products that have passed review are included on the OMRI Products List. The OMRI Listed® seal, which these products can display on labels and in advertising and promotions, assures their suitability for use in certified organic production.
