The organic logo under the microscope

Introduction

The use of the organic logo is separate from the use of the term 'organic'. If the Bio-logo can be used, it is allowed to be called "organic", but there are products that are allowed to be called "organic" but do not have the Bio-logo.

The organic logo

The organic logo is obligatory for pre-packaged products that have been produced in the European Union. The organic production logo of the European Union may be used in the labelling, presentation and advertising of products that comply with this regulation. However, there are exceptions to this, for example for certain processed game and fishery products. The use of the organic logo for EU organic production is optional for products imported from third countries. However, the organic logo should always be in accordance with the model and the requirements in Annex V of the new organic regulation.

Did you know?

The Bio logo is often called a label, but strictly speaking it is an official declaration in the sense of Articles 86 and 91 of the EU Regulation 2017/625, which is called a "certificate" in that Regulation.

Beware of misleading packaging

One should also be careful with certain design that is too similar to the colours (green and white) and shapes (leaf) of the Bio logo, as this is potentially misleading for the consumer. So, even if you neatly comply with the Bio Regulation regarding the use of the word Bio (see column II), Labelling requirements (see column III) and the Bio logo (IV) - a certain packaging can still be prohibited if it is misleading for the consumer.

More information

The Dutch authority Skal has a clear and accessible website which includes the label checker as a useful tool for the entrepreneur. In addition, it is good to know that products produced before 1 January 2022 will continue to be marketed after that date.