If you suspect a violation of the USDA organic standards, you may submit a complaint as provided below. When submitting your complaint, please be prepared to provide as much information as possible. Suggested information for two frequently-reported violations is provided below.

Common labeling problems include not listing the organic product’s certifying agent, putting the word "organic" on the front of the packaging when the ingredients are organic but the entire product is not certified organic, and using the USDA organic seal on a multi-ingredient product that only has one or two organic ingredients (less than 95% of the total product). In these cases, please provide:

Common retail establishment problems include the commingling of organic and conventional produce in the same bin, missing or unclear signage identifying bulk products as organic, and contaminating organic products with unapproved cleaners or solvents. In these cases, please provide:

Complete and accurate information helps ensure that the issue can be successfully reviewed or investigated. Additionally, please provide your name and contact information if you are willing to discuss the issue further with an NOP Compliance staff member as needed.

Complaint Submission. Please submit your complaint via one of the channels provided below:

For operations based outside California

(202) 720-3252; Attn: C&E Division

NOP Compliance and Enforcement

USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service

1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Mail Stop 0268

Washington, D.C. 20250

For operations based in California

Complaints may also be sent to the listed contact person for the certified producer or handler’s certifying agent (provided on the product label or sticker for retail products).

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