NOP Certification is mandatory for exporting organic agricultural and processed food products to the United States. NOP stands for the National Organic Program, administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Indian producers, processors, and exporters must obtain NOP certification from USDA-accredited certifying bodies to label products as “organic” in the US market.
This Saving Mantra blog explains the step-by-step process for NOP certification in India, including eligibility, documents, audits, timelines, and benefits—crafted to rank higher on Google and help exporters comply smoothly.
What is NOP Certification?
NOP Certification verifies that organic products are produced, handled, processed, and labeled in accordance with USDA organic standards. It covers:
- Organic farming practices
- Input control (no prohibited substances)
- Traceability and record-keeping
- Organic handling, processing, and labeling
Only NOP-certified products can be sold as “USDA Organic” in the United States.
Who Needs NOP Certification?
NOP certification is required for:
- Organic farmers and grower groups
- Organic processors and manufacturers
- Organic traders and exporters
- Storage units and handlers of organic products
📌 Mandatory if you plan to export organic products to the USA.
Benefits of NOP Certification
- 🌱 Legal access to the US organic market
- 🌱 Use of “USDA Organic” claim (as permitted)
- 🌱 Higher export value and buyer trust
- 🌱 International recognition of organic integrity
- 🌱 Compliance with stringent US organic laws
Step-by-Step Process for NOP Certification in India
Step 1: Choose a USDA-Accredited Certifying Body
- Select an accredited certifier operating in India
- Ensure the certifier is approved for your product scope
Step 2: Application Submission
- Submit application with farm/unit details
- Declare crops, products, locations, and volumes
Step 3: Organic System Plan (OSP) Preparation
Prepare a detailed Organic System Plan, covering:
- Farming practices and inputs
- Soil fertility and pest management
- Processing methods and sanitation
- Storage and transportation controls
Step 4: Document Review
- Certifier reviews OSP and supporting documents
- Queries and clarifications may be raised
Step 5: On-Site Inspection
- Physical inspection of farms/units
- Verification of records, inputs, and traceability
- Sampling (if required)
⏳ Inspection Time: Depends on size and scope
Step 6: Compliance & Corrective Actions
- Address non-conformities (if any)
- Submit corrective action report
Step 7: Grant of NOP Certificate
- NOP certificate issued upon compliance
- Scope includes approved products, sites, and activities
⏳ Overall Timeline: 2–4 months (project dependent)
Documents Required for NOP Certification
- Application form & OSP
- Land records and maps
- Input purchase invoices
- Farm activity and harvest records
- Processing SOPs (if applicable)
- Exporter and business registration documents
Validity & Renewal
- NOP certification validity: 1 year
- Annual inspection and renewal mandatory
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using prohibited inputs
- ❌ Poor record-keeping and traceability
- ❌ Mixing organic and non-organic products
- ❌ Using “USDA Organic” claim without approval
NOP vs India Organic (NPOP)
| Aspect | NOP | NPOP |
|---|---|---|
| Market | United States | India & select markets |
| Authority | USDA | **Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) |
| Mandatory for USA | Yes | No |
| Mutual Recognition | Limited | Limited |
Why Choose Saving Mantra for NOP Certification?
- ✔ USDA-accredited certifier coordination
- ✔ Organic System Plan (OSP) drafting support
- ✔ Inspection readiness & compliance guidance
- ✔ Export-focused organic certification expertise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is NOP certification mandatory for exporting to the USA?
Yes, organic products must be NOP-certified to be sold as organic in the US.
Q2. Can NPOP certification replace NOP?
No, NOP certification is required for the US market.
Q3. How long does NOP certification take?
Typically 2–4 months, depending on readiness and scope.
Q4. Can small farmers apply for NOP certification?
Yes, individually or through grower groups.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. USDA NOP standards and certification requirements may change over time. Readers are advised to consult professional experts and accredited certifiers before proceeding.