organicfoundation.in

ORGANIC FOOD PROCESSING

Organic food production and handling is a process which should be done with proper care and system. The system which perfectly explains the do’s and don’ts of organic food processing and handling is National Standards For Organic Production (NSOP section 3.4).

As per the NSOP standards any handling and processing of organic products should be optimized to maintain the quality and integrity of the product and directed towards minimizing the development of pests and diseases. Processing should be done with protection from co-mingling with non-organic products and it should be identifiable. Atmospheric conditions can be controlled to avoid contamination.

Processing methods should be based on mechanized, physical and biological processes. The vital quality of an organic ingredient shall be maintained throughout each step of its processing.

As per NSOP standards processing methods allowed are as follows

• Mechanical and physical

• Biological

• Smoking

• Extraction

• Precipitation

• Filtration

void carcinogenic substances in the case of filtration and extraction (Eg: asbestos filters), irradiation is strictly not allowed.

Ecologically sound materials should be used for the packaging of organic products. Materials which cause the organoleptic character change of the product should be avoided.Labeling shall convey clear and accurate information on the organic status of the product. The labeling should ensure the traceability of the company or person who manufactured it.

Product integrity should be maintained during storage and transportation of organic products, organic products should be clearly labeled. Stores for organic products should be separated from conventional products stores.Store area, transport container should be clean and methods used are must be permitted in organic production.

Foundation for Organic Agriculture and Rural Development is offering the following services in the Organic Processing sector

1. Conducting Training programmes on Organic production Standards as per National Standard for Organic Production, EC regulation 834/2007 & USDA (NOP)

2. Providing advisory services for obtaining organic certification to the organic processing units.