Initially set for January 1, 2021, the entry into force of Regulation (EU) No. 2018/848 on organic production and labeling of organic products is postponed to January 1, 2022 at the request of the European Commission. This new regulation "aims to ensure fair competition conditions and (...) to maintain consumer confidence in labelled (...) organic products". Like all organic products distributed, processed, produced or imported in the European area and in France, organic tea is concerned by this evolution. Let's see what the new organic regulation 2021-2022 will change in your habits.
New organic regulation 2021-2022: a reinforced control system
Organic farms are subject to a minimum annual compliance control. Random unannounced controls may be added. This frequency can be extended to 24 months, once an organic farm has met the requirements of the compliance controls for three consecutive years.
Same organic regulations for non-EU producers from 2022
The new organic regulation 2021-2022 sets more stringent import rules. Producers from non-EU countries will have to follow the same rules as producers from EU countries. This project has a double objective:
- to create fair competition between producers in the Member States of the European Union;
- to offer consumers a harmonization of quality standards for organic products marketed in the European area (whether these products are produced in the EU or not).
An extension of the list of organic products by 2022
The list of products and productions eligible for European organic certification is extended. Among the products concerned are
- salt ;
- cork ;
- beeswax
- mate;
- vine leaves;
- hearts of palm;
- essential oils not intended for food use;
- wool ;
- raw hides and skins;
- silkworm cocoons;
- natural gums and resins.
Clearer labelling for a better informed organic consumer from 2022
The new 2021-2022 organic regulation foresees the introduction of clearer labelling for organic products. This labeling must mention the origin of the agricultural raw materials. It must also indicate the name of the control body. The European organic logo must be displayed on the products.
New organic regulation 2021-2022: ban on soilless farming
According to the new European regulation on organic agriculture, plants must be essentially nourished by the soil ecosystem, certain production and farming methods are prohibited. These include:
- hydroponic agriculture;
- cultivation in containers, bags or tubs;
- boundary squares.
Some non-soil based production and farming methods are exempt from this prohibition. These include, for example, the following productions:
- sprouted seeds ;
- chicory; and
- potted ornamental plants;
- aromatic plants in pots;
- plants to be transplanted.
New organic regulation 2021-2022: what changes for organic tea flavors
The new regulation validated by the European Commission subjects organic products containing flavors to a stricter framework. Only flavourings obtained from natural flavouring substances and made up of at least 95% organic ingredients can be used in organic products. With the entry into force of this new European project, AB-certified tea marketed in France can now only use organic flavors in its manufacture. Natural flavors are no longer allowed in processed organic products.