USDA Organic
US federal standard for food and farming grown without synthetic pesticides or GMOs.
What it is
USDA Organic is regulated by the National Organic Program under the US Department of Agriculture. Certified products contain ≥95% organic ingredients (for the 'Organic' seal) or ≥70% (for the 'Made With Organic' label). Synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, sewage sludge, GMOs and ionising radiation are prohibited.
How it's verified
Farms and handlers submit an Organic System Plan, undergo annual on-site inspection by USDA-accredited certifying agents, and keep detailed records. Soil must be managed without prohibited substances for three years before certification.
What to look for
The green-and-white USDA Organic seal. For imported foods, equivalent programs (EU Organic, JAS Japan) may apply.
Watch out for
'Natural', 'all-natural' and 'farm-fresh' are unregulated. 'Made with organic ingredients' is weaker than 'Organic'. Check which tier the product qualifies under.
What it doesn't cover
USDA Organic does not address fair labour, fair pricing, water use, packaging or carbon footprint. It also permits 'organic' synthetic pesticides on the National List (e.g. copper-based fungicides) which can have ecological impact.
Top USDA Organic-certified products
The highest-scoring products in our database that carry USDA Organic certification.
A gold-standard ethical staple, this virgin coconut oil is sourced from regenerative farms in Sri Lanka, ensuring soil health and fair wages for local farmers.
An industry gold standard for ethical home care, this ultra-concentrated soap uses organic oils and fair-trade ingredients to replace dozens of single-use cleaners.
A gold-standard pantry staple produced through regenerative organic farming that restores soil health and supports Sri Lankan smallholder farmers.
A highly versatile, fair-trade soap that is gentle enough for pets, formulated with moisturizing organic sugar and essential oils for a soothing bath experience.
The gold standard for multi-use automotive cleaning, this biodegradable soap is fair-trade certified and effective for everything from dashboard wipes to exterior washes.
The gold standard of ethical soaps, this concentrated formula uses organic oils and fair-trade ingredients in 100% post-consumer recycled packaging.
The gold standard of ethical gifting: a versatile, organic, and fair-trade soap set that supports regenerative farming and fair wages.
A delicious peppermint tea sourced from fair trade cooperatives that supports respiratory health and ethical farming.
An ultra-concentrated, biodegradable liquid soap that can be used for everything from body wash to laundry, made with organic oils and fair trade ingredients.
Frequently asked
Is organic always pesticide-free?+
No. Organic farming permits certain naturally derived pesticides from the National List, including copper sulfate, pyrethrin and sulphur. Residue levels are typically much lower than conventional but not zero.