Eugene, Oregon
April 4, 2007
The Organic Materials Review
Institute (OMRI), the organization that reviews products to
determine their suitability for use as inputs in producing,
processing, and handling organic food and fiber, has adopted
revised review program policies and standards. OMRI will begin
to use the revised policies and standards, including new forms
and instructions, on May 7, 2007.
The basic goal of the OMRI Review
Program will be the same. The standards will remain consistent
with the most current National Organic Program Rule. OMRI
Listed® products will continue to be acceptable for use on a
certified organic operation.
One of the most significant changes to
the standards includes the development of maximum concentrations
of arsenic, cadmium, and lead for all products intended for use
on organic crops or soils. Also, under the revised policies,
OMRI will perform a minimum number of random inspections.
"The revised audit and inspections
policies will enable us to ensure the long-term integrity of our
program," states Dave DeCou, OMRI’s executive director.
The new policies and standards were
developed in order to seek accreditation under the International
Organization for Standardization
(ISO) Guide 65—a
standard system for certification services.
"The commitment we are making to ISO
will yield more consistent results, while simplifying the
process," adds DeCou.
The revised policies and standards are
contained in two forthcoming publications: the OMRI Policy
Manual and the OMRI Standards Manual.
Companies that have ordered an OMRI
Application Kit within the last 12 months will automatically be
mailed copies of the new manuals.
In addition to applicants, the changes
affect companies that currently participate in the OMRI Review
Program. All companies with one or more OMRI Listed® product(s)
will be subject to the new policies upon their annual renewal.
The revised policies contain the first
comprehensive fee change in the organization’s 10-year history.
New fees reflect increased operating costs. |
