Organic food producers and processors have been reminded they must adhere to new labelling rules in the run-up to the introduction of EU legislation in June.

From 1st July this year, the new pan-European symbol for UK organic production, along with the correct accompanying wording, must appear on certified produce. The new logo was introduced in 2010, but its use will become mandatory this year.

However, organic certifiers in the UK have expressed concerns at the lack of awareness over the approaching change in rules. Steve Clarkson, certification and compliance manager at certifiers Organic Farmers and Growers, said, “Based on the feedback we are getting from the industry generally, we have concerns that the approaching deadline hasn’t reached the ears of everyone who needs to know. There has been no central alert or notification to all organic operators from the EU or Defra.”

Mr Clarkson went on to say that, although it is cause for thought, the lack of adequate notification will not provide a defence for producers or processors who fall foul of the regulators.

OF&G has produced a set of guidelines to help growers make the transition to new labelling. The organisation has made its guidelines available to all organic growers, regardless of their certifier, here

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