Do not be misled by the term "organic." The primary and only standard that should matter is quality.
Once a product leaves an organic-certified facility, it loses its authenticity and can no longer be marketed as organic. Without a full paper trail and handling solely by certified facilities, maintaining its certified organic status is not possible.
Using "Organic" on Your Product Label
Many cosmetic and skincare brands claim their products are organic, even if they haven't been certified under programs like the USDA National Organic Program. Any cosmetic, body care, or personal care product that does not meet the following criteria for production, handling, processing, labeling, and certification cannot be labeled as USDA-Certified Organic or assert compliance with USDA Organic Standards.
"100% Organic"
A product must consist entirely of organic ingredients (excluding water and salt). It may display the USDA Organic Seal and must include the certifying agent’s name and address.
"Organic"
A product must contain at least 95% organic ingredients (excluding water and salt). The remaining ingredients must be non-agricultural substances from the National List or non-organic agricultural products that are not commercially available in organic form. These products can display the USDA Organic Seal and must also show the certifying agent’s name and address.
"Made with Organic Ingredients"
These products must contain at least 70% organic ingredients. The label can list up to three organic ingredients or “food” groups on the principal display panel, such as “body lotion made with organic lavender, rosemary, and chamomile.” These products may not display the USDA Organic Seal but must include the certifying agent’s name and address.
"Less Than 70% Organic Ingredients"
These products cannot use the term "organic" on the principal display panel. However, they can list specific USDA-certified organic ingredients on the ingredient statement. They are not allowed to display the USDA Organic Seal or the certifying agent’s name and address. Substantial proof of organic ingredients must be provided.
NSF/ANSI 305: Personal Care Products Containing Organic Ingredients
In 2009, NSF and ANSI introduced this standard for personal care products containing at least 70% organic ingredients by weight. To achieve certification under this standard, products must undergo review by an independent organic certifier. Unlike the USDA Organic program, NSF/ANSI 305 allows some chemical processing for personal care products, such as saponification in soap production, which is necessary for lathering.
Violations of organic labeling can result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation. The Federal Trade Commission can also penalize companies for making fraudulent claims, particularly if they cannot back up their statements with proper documentation.