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Any organic product sold in the UK must by law display a certification symbol or number. When you see an organic symbol, you can be sure that the product complies with minimum government standards.
These standards are set by the UK government and meet European and international standards. Each certification body has its own symbol and EU code number.
Each EU country has its own organic certification authority which conforms to EU standards. Within each EU country there may be various certification bodies. As in the UK, each certification body may apply additional specifications on top of the EU standards. EU standards, in turn, are subject to those laid down by the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM).
For food imported from outside Europe into the EU, the situation is slightly more complicated, but is still subject to rigorous checks and guarantees. Imported produce must come from countries recognised as applying equivalent standards and inspection procedures. Where national standards do not exist, importers may apply for certification on behalf of specific organic producers. They are then inspected by one of the EU recognised certification bodies.
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