Conversion, retroactive approval - CH Demeter Standards 2005

Schmid, Otto and Ziegler, Katia (2005) Conversion, retroactive approval - CH Demeter Standards 2005. [Organic rules - Differences between other regulations/standards and EEC No 2092/91]

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Summary

A conversion period of 4 full calendar years is required; crops may be sold with 'DEMETER' denomination in the fourth year of conformity with DEMETER standards. No retrospective approval is granted (no reduction of the conversion period possible). In case of a certified production according Bio Suisse Standards, DEMETER approval may occur in the second year of conformity with DEMETER Standards.

Difference

Whereas DEMETER requires a 36 months conversion period beginning with the first year of inspection by an official inspection body, EU Regulation 2092/91 offers the possibility for retrospective approval in cases where previous management methods are proven to be in compliance with the regulation.

Justification

Essential agricultural knowledge and skills in the biodynamic method are important prerequisitites for successfull farming. To acquire this knowledge and to gain credibility for the method in the consumers eyes, DEMETER strictly defines the beginning of conversion as starting with the first year of inspection.

EU Regulation

Annex I. Principles of organic production and processing > A.Plant and plant products > Conversion - Annex I A1
Annex I. Principles of organic production and processing > B.Livestock and livestock products - Annex I B > Conversion - Annex I B2

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