BY COMPLYING WITH STANDARD FARMERS CAN PRODUCE ORGANIC FOODS
Organic foods are those foods that are produced according to strict production management systems and standards which promote and enhance agro ecosystem health. These foods are believed to be healthier than those produced using inorganic and synthetic materials. In the organic production of foods, emphasis is placed on the use of management practices in preference to the use of off-farm inputs. This is accomplished by using, where possible, cultural, biological and mechanical methods to fulfill any specific function within the system.
The Code of Practice for the production, processing, labeling and marketing of organically produced foods (GCP 22: 2005) was adapted and approved by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) as a National Standard geared for the production of organically produced foods in Guyana
This code of practice was developed for the purpose of providing an agreed approach to the requirements which underpin production of and the labeling and claim for organically produced foods. It applies to unprocessed plants and plant products, livestock and livestock products and processed agricultural crop and livestock products intended for human consumption.
The standard examines labeling and claims rules of production and preparation of organically produced foods, the requirements for the inclusion of substances for soil fertilization and conditioning and criteria for the development of lists of substances. Inspection and certification systems used to verify organically produced foods, livestock and livestock products and wild harvesting and natural products are also addressed in this standard.

The aims of this standard are:

1) to protect consumers against deception and fraud in the market place and unsubstantial product claims;
2) to protect the producers of organic produce against misrepresentation of other produce as being organic;
3) to ensure that all stages of production, preparation, storage, transport, and marketing are subject to inspection and comply with requirements of this standard;
4) to harmonize provisions for the production, certification, identification and labeling of organically grown produce;
5) to provide guidelines for organic food control systems in order to facilitate recognition of national systems as equivalent for the purposes of imports; and
6) to maintain and enhance organic agricultural systems in Guyana so as to contribute to local and global preservation.

Producers and exporters of organically produced foods, crops and animal products can acquire copies of this standard from the Technical Standards Information Unit (TSIU) of the GNBS in order to be equipped with the necessary guidelines for the production of such products.

For further information on this subject, call the GNBS on Telephone number: 219-0065 or visit the Bureau’s website: gnbsgy.org