Every consumer has heard of USDA Organic Certification. Many people like to know that the foods they eat are grown on farms that haven’t used any synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or insecticides for three years.
Organic farming doesn’t necessarily mean that crops are grown without external inputs like fertilizers. Organic soil and pest-control products are allowed, but how do you know how legitimate these ingredients are? That’s where the OMRI comes in.
The Organic Materials Review Institute, better known as OMRI, was started in 1997 to ensure quality chemical-free products were used in organic agriculture. OMRI ensures that external inputs for these farms aren’t just in compliance with the National Organic Standards, but also the Canadian Organic Regime and the Mexican Organic Products Law. Each of these countries has their own product list with OMRI.
The USDA requires a third party assessment in order for a producer to be certified organic. However, OMRI doesn’t participate in certification. It only assesses the inputs, such as fertilizers and feed, that qualify the producer to be certified.
OMRI lists organic inputs, but it doesn't certify them. The organic certification is only for what the consumer uses, like fruits, vegetables, meat, and some clothing. The products that OMRI lists are the materials used in the production of these goods.
The reviews for companies applying to be OMRI listed are still rigorous, and must be renewed each year. Just because the consumers may not see the OMRI seal, doesn’t mean it’s not important.
Being on the list means you worked hard to source the best products, and anyone who uses your products can say the same.
Organic goods are becoming more and more popular. More people in agriculture are seeking certification. To help get there, they need OMRI listed products. While it’s not an absolute requirement to be listed, it will give you the edge on others. Organic farmers want to be confident with the products they choose.
This is why the OMRI list is helpful both for farmers and organic certifiers. First, it eliminates any questions surrounding the product and whether it’s allowed to be used. The farmer can confidently use it and still be in contention for or in compliance with organic standards. And the certifier can enjoy the same benefits.
Since OMRI listed products are able to be used in certified organic agriculture, what are the standards for those listed products? OMRI only approves products with ingredients that adhere to the standards of the USDA National Organic Program, Canadian Organic Regime, and the Mexican Organic Products Law.
OMRI makes the process of getting on their list very easy. First, a company must order an application kit that includes OMRI’s Resources and Policy Manuals. From there, you can create a company account where you apply to have a product listed or renew your products that are already listed.
Once the review process starts, applicants are required to pay a company fee based on gross sales, as well as some smaller fees for each product that you would like to be listed.
The review and approval process generally takes several months. However, the demand for more organic ingredients is increasing rapidly and the wait time to be listed may be longer.
Once you’re approved, though, you can start bragging about your OMRI listing almost immediately. OMRI will list your company and products on its website where growers can find you, and you’re able to use the OMRI seal on your products. It needs to be renewed annually, but the fees are lower, and the process takes much less time than the initial application and review.
Becoming OMRI listed is one step in the process for a more sustainable future. That’s why many of our Nature Safe formulations are OMRI listed fertilizers. Nature Safe Fertilizers recognizes the need for organic products that farmers use to make their farms more profitable and healthier. OMRI is here to make sure growers are confident in the inputs they use.
The animal and plant products in Nature Safe Fertilizers are natural and organically sourced. In addition to OMRI listing, there are a host of quality assurance measures that also ensure product safety. Organic farms need more than just water and sunlight, and that’s why Nature Safe is here. Our fertilizers are effective and environmentally safe to use on farms, golf courses, and other large scale operations. Call us at 800-743-7413.
