Initially set for 1 January 2021, the entry into application of Regulation (EU) No 2018/848 on organic production and the labelling of organic products has been postponed to 1 January 2022 at the request of the European Commission. This new regulation "aims to ensure fair competition conditions and (...) to maintain the trust that consumers have in products labelled (...) organic". Like all organic products distributed, processed, produced or imported in the European area and in France, organic tea is affected by this development. Let us look together at what the new organic regulations 2021-2022 will change in your habits.
New organic regulations 2021-2022: a strengthened monitoring system
Organic farms are subject to a compliance check at least once a year. Random unannounced checks may also be carried out. This frequency may be extended to 24 months, once an organic farm has met the compliance check requirements for three consecutive years.
Identical organic regulations for producers from non-EU countries from 2022
The new organic regulations 2021-2022 set stricter import rules. Producers from third countries will henceforth be required to comply with the same rules as producers from European Union member states. This project has a dual objective:
- establish a level playing field between producers in European Union member states;
- offer consumers a harmonisation of quality standards for organic products sold in the European area (whether those products are produced within 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 has been extended. Among the products concerned, we note:
- salt;
- cork;
- beeswax;
- maté;
- vine leaves;
- palm hearts;
- essential oils not intended for food use;
- wool;
- raw hides;
- silkworm cocoons;
- natural gums and resins.
Clearer labelling for better-informed organic consumers from 2022
The new organic regulations 2021-2022 provide for the introduction of clearer labelling for organic products. This labelling must mention the origin of agricultural raw materials. It must also indicate the name of the inspection body. The European organic logo must be prominently displayed on products.
New organic regulations 2021-2022: ban on soil-free farming
According to the new European regulation on organic farming, since plants must be nourished primarily by the soil ecosystem, certain production and farming methods are prohibited. These include, among others:
- hydroponic farming;
- container, bag or tub growing;
- designated squares.
Certain production and farming methods not linked to the soil are exempt from this ban. These include, for example, the following productions:
- sprouted seeds;
- chicory;
- ornamental plants in a pot;
- aromatic plants in a pot;
- seedlings for replanting or transplanting.
New organic regulations 2021-2022: what changes for organic tea flavourings
The new regulation validated by the European Commission subjects organic products containing flavourings to a stricter framework. Only flavourings obtained from natural flavouring substances and composed of at least 95% organic ingredients may be used in the composition of organic products. With the entry into force of this new European regulation, AB-certified tea sold in France may now only use organic flavourings in its production. Natural flavourings are no longer permitted in processed organic products.