Certification & Label Programs

Why Certifications Matter

Certifications and label programs verify that products meet specific standards, providing assurance to buyers and consumers. Many retail and foodservice buyers require certain certifications. Certified products often command premium prices and access markets unavailable to conventional products.

Types of Dairy Certifications

Organic

USDA Organic certification requires compliance with National Organic Program standards including organic feed, pasture access, and prohibited synthetic inputs. Three-year transition period for land.

Animal Welfare

• Certified Humane: Humane Farm Animal Care standards
• Animal Welfare Approved: High welfare standards, pasture-based
• American Humane Certified: Science-based welfare standards

Grass-Fed

Various programs certify grass-fed dairy including American Grassfed Association and USDA Process Verified programs.

Non-GMO

Non-GMO Project verification confirms products are produced without genetic engineering.

Religious Certifications

• Kosher: Meeting Jewish dietary laws
• Halal: Meeting Islamic dietary requirements

Regional and Local

State "Buy Local" programs and regional certifications promote local sourcing.

Certification Process

1. Research requirements and select certifier
2. Develop required systems and documentation
3. Submit application and system plan
4. Undergo initial inspection
5. Receive certification upon compliance
6. Maintain compliance with annual inspections

Choosing Certifications

Consider:

• What do your target buyers require or prefer?
• What premium does certification command?
• What changes does certification require?
• What are certification and maintenance costs?
• Can you reliably meet ongoing requirements?

Cost Considerations

Organic certification fees run $500-2,500 annually plus inspection costs. Animal welfare certifications cost $500-3,000 per year. Non-GMO verification runs $2,000-10,000 depending on volume. Consider certification costs against premiums received and markets accessed.