National Organic Program: Updates to Allowed and Prohibited Substances List for Crops and Livestock

The USDA is proposing amendments to its National Organic Program (NOP) regulations based on recommendations from October 2021, October 2022, and October 2024. The rule introduces new tools for organic producers in both crop and livestock operations, reflecting evolving scientific and industry input gathered over multiple review cycles. On the crop side, the rule would explicitly allow carbon dioxide for use in organic crop production and affirm that sodium nitrate may be used as a fertilizer under specific conditions designed to protect soil quality and maintain organic integrity. These changes aim to clarify existing ambiguities and expand practical options for certified organic growers. For organic livestock producers, the proposed rule introduces meloxicam — a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) — as a permitted pain treatment option, addressing animal welfare concerns in certified organic operations. This is a notable addition given the historically limited pharmaceutical options available in organic livestock management. Additionally, the rule proposes removing existing restrictions on methionine — an essential amino acid — in organic poultry feed, which the USDA characterizes as 'overly burdensome.' This change would give organic poultry producers greater flexibility in meeting the nutritional needs of their flocks without compromising organic certification.

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