USDA Organic
US federal standard for food and farming grown without synthetic pesticides or GMOs.
What it is
USDA Organic is regulated by the National Organic Program under the US Department of Agriculture. Certified products contain ≥95% organic ingredients (for the 'Organic' seal) or ≥70% (for the 'Made With Organic' label). Synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, sewage sludge, GMOs and ionising radiation are prohibited.
How it's verified
Farms and handlers submit an Organic System Plan, undergo annual on-site inspection by USDA-accredited certifying agents, and keep detailed records. Soil must be managed without prohibited substances for three years before certification.
What to look for
The green-and-white USDA Organic seal. For imported foods, equivalent programs (EU Organic, JAS Japan) may apply.
Watch out for
'Natural', 'all-natural' and 'farm-fresh' are unregulated. 'Made with organic ingredients' is weaker than 'Organic'. Check which tier the product qualifies under.
What it doesn't cover
USDA Organic does not address fair labour, fair pricing, water use, packaging or carbon footprint. It also permits 'organic' synthetic pesticides on the National List (e.g. copper-based fungicides) which can have ecological impact.
Top USDA Organic-certified products
The highest-scoring products in our database that carry USDA Organic certification.
Dr. Bronner's Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is a versatile, organic cleanser that is great value for families seeking multi-use grooming products.
Earth Mama Organics
Diaper Balm
A herb-infused, petroleum-free botanical balm that is cloth-diaper safe and rigorously tested for toxicity.
Dr. Bronner's
Organic Regenerative Coconut Milk
A gold-standard pantry staple produced through regenerative organic farming in Sri Lanka, ensuring fair wages and soil health restoration.
Dr. Bronner's
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap Peppermint
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap Peppermint is a legendary multi-surface concentrate that is worth it for anyone seeking a 100% biodegradable and vegan cleaning solution.
Navitas Organics
Navitas Organics Cacao Powder
Navitas Organics Cacao Powder is a nutrient-dense superfood that is great value for home bakers and smoothie enthusiasts looking for premium antioxidants.
The Niove Natural Jute Twine is a great value for eco-conscious gardeners, offering 100% biodegradable support for climbing plants and vegetable trellises.
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap Baby Unscented is a concentrated, plant-based formula that is worth it for families seeking a fragrance-free, multi-surface solution.
Wildimal
Wildimal Cotton Nut Milk Bag
The Wildimal Cotton Nut Milk Bag is a premium organic strainer and great value for making smooth, pulp-free plant milks at home sustainably.
Dr. Bronner's
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Bar Soap Peppermint
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Bar Soap Peppermint is a legendary zero-waste multi-tool, making it a great value for eco-conscious households seeking a plastic-free clean.
Frequently asked
Is organic always pesticide-free?+
No. Organic farming permits certain naturally derived pesticides from the National List, including copper sulfate, pyrethrin and sulphur. Residue levels are typically much lower than conventional but not zero.