*MEDIA STATEMENT*
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (ISDA) National Organic Program (NOP) for finalizing the Market Development for Mushrooms and Pet Food rule. OTA supports the development of market opportunities for organic producers, and this final rule aligns directly with our mission to grow the industry. This final rule addresses the unique aspects of mushroom and pet food with the introduction of specific standards and resolves uncertainty and inconsistency in the certification of these product categories.
While targeted at expanding the mushroom and pet food categories, this rule also opens opportunities for ingredient suppliers to these categories. For example, with the clarification that organic livestock off-cuts may now be included in a high-quality organic pet food diet, organic livestock producers are presented with a market opportunity and potential price premium.
OTA has long advocated for clear practice standards to support consistency in production, a fair playing field in the marketplace, and a commonly understood definition of organic by the consumer. Publication of this final rule draws on four National Organic Standards Board recommendations dating to 1995 and builds on OTA’s successful advocacy and engagement in moving these backlogged recommendations forward. Keeping USDA organic regulations current and reflective of consumer expectations is essential to maintaining trust and value in the organic label.
With a compliance date of February 2027, the industry has a two-year period to adjust and implement the requirements of this final rule. OTA will use this time to focus on providing the support and resources needed to its members to ensure successful compliance with this significant new rule.