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11 Jul
Article
New! Strengthening Organic Enforcement Rule Toolkit
Our new SOE toolkit has been designed to support organizations across the organic supply chain to understand and comply with the SOE Rule.
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4 Feb
Article
Strengthening Organic Enforcement: How the Final Rule May Affect Certification
If you’re a broker, trader or importer of organic products, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement proposed rule may require your business to become certified organic.
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27 Jan
Article
Important Updates to the Canadian Organic Standard and Permitted Substances Lists
In December 2020, the Canadian General Standards Board revised its organic standard (CAN/CGSB 32.310-2020) and the Permitted Substances Lists or PSL (32.311-2020).
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24 Nov
Article
Key Takeaways From Fall 2020 NOSB Meeting
At the end of October, the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) convened for its biannual meeting to discuss and vote on National List material sunset reviews, petitions to add and remove materials from the National List, and discussion documents.
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28 Oct
Article
QAI Team Cleans Up Local Neighborhoods—From California to Ontario
During the pandemic, it can be hard to feel a sense of normalcy. We aren’t traveling or gathering as much—and the QAI team has been surprised by how much we miss in-person interactions in our offices in La Jolla, California.
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23 Oct
Article
Read QAI’s Fall 2020 NOSB Comments
Earlier this month, QAI submitted written comments ahead of the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) Fall 2020 meeting, which will be held remotely October 28-30 in a live webinar.
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26 Aug
Video
QAI Serves the Hemp Industry With Quality Standards and Product Certifications
We are committed to supporting the hemp industry with rigorous quality standards and certification services that build trust in hemp and CBD products.
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26 Aug
Article
FDA Update on Marketing CBD in Foods or Dietary Supplements
The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) recently provided accredited certifiers (like QAI) with updated information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding cannabidiol (CBD).
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24 Aug
Article
Important Updates to Canada’s Organic Regulations
QAI would like to advise you of a recent change in documentation requirements for USDA organic products being exported to Canada under the U.S.-Canada Organic Equivalency Arrangement.
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21 Aug
Article
Strengthening Organic Enforcement Proposed Rule: What You Need to Know
Recently published by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) Proposed…
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29 Jul
Article
Why Certify? 5 Hot Tips
We’ve got five data-driven reasons why certifications are more important than ever, based on recent consumer and sales data indicating increasing demand for healthy foods, transparency and sustainability.
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21 Jul
Video
Organic Standards for Coffee Webinar
Lauren Browning, QAI’s Business Development Manager, gives an overview of the benefits of organic certification for coffee manufacturers and processing operations.
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2 Jul
Article
U.S. and Taiwan Reach Equivalence Arrangement to Expand Organic Trade
In June, the USDA announced that the United States and Taiwan had reached an organic equivalence arrangement that opens trade opportunities between the two countries.
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30 Jun
Article
What You Need to Know: FDA Temporary Guidance on Labeling Requirements
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently released temporary guidance that says if a food manufacturer must make minor formulation changes due to a COVID-19-related supply disruption, it does not have to revise the label to indicate the changes.
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25 Jun
Article
Our Statement on Racism and a Pledge to Take Action
Our team wants to add our voices to the resounding outrage at the unjust killings and systemic oppression of Black lives. To build a better, more equitable food system, our institutions and individuals must change…
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15 May
Video
QAI Organic Nibbles: QAI Educational Mark
In the latest video in QAI’s Organic Nibbles series, Business Development Manager Lauren Browning talks about QAI’s educational mark, which states, “If it’s organic, it’s non-GMO.”
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8 May
Article
Guidelines for Organic Certification Inspection During COVID-19
QAI is here to help support your business through the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that you have questions about how your business can maintain compliance with regulations and customer expectations…
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16 Apr
Video
Interactive Packaging Workshop
In this on-demand webinar, you'll get valuable insights, guidance and checklists for optimizing your branding, packaging and certifications from product design and certification experts.
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10 Apr
Article
Your Company May Qualify for Small Business Relief Programs: COVID-19 Resources
QAI is dedicated to supporting our clients as they face challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In that spirit, we are sharing access to Financial Stimulus Options and Cash Management Strategies, a new webinar…
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20 Mar
Article
QAI Staff Working Remotely and Offices Temporarily Closed [COVID-19 Update]
We would like to share an update on our commitment to protecting and improving human health, including the actions we are taking to help prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in QAI operations and activities worldwide.
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13 Mar
Article
NOSB Spring Meeting Comment Period Is Open
The National Organic Program (NOP) wants to hear from you. The NOP is calling for the public to comment on the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) Spring Meeting agenda.
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10 Mar
Article
Planting the Seed: QAI Scholarship Winner Hopes to Grow Organic
QAI recently celebrated its 30th anniversary by creating the first QAI Growing Organic Scholarship to help advance the organic education of one aspiring student.
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26 Nov
Article
National Organic Standards Board Fall 2019 Meeting Report
QAI participates in the biannual National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meetings, where proposals related to materials and organic practices are discussed and voted on or sent back to subcommittees for further development. Here is the report from the Fall 2019 NOSB meeting.
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18 Nov
Article
Quality Assurance International (QAI) Celebrates 30 Years of Organic Certification
Organic certifier hosts industry forum to reflect on the past and discuss the future of organic certification.
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7 Nov
Article
Customer Conversations: Perfect Snacks
Deciding to work with QAI was an easy choice for us, but their robust network and experience handling our NSF certification were definitely of high importance to us in the decision-making process.
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22 Oct
Video
Celebrating 30 Years of QAI
Over the past three decades, QAI and the organic industry have come a long way, baby!
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23 Sep
Video
Organic Nibbles: Common Questions for Handlers and Processors
In our latest video, QAI Reviewer Kim Truong answers common organic certification questions for handlers and processors.
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9 Sep
Article
Now Certifying U.S. Hemp Crops, Hemp and Hemp-Derived CBD Products
As of August 21, 2019, QAI is offering USDA organic certification of hemp crops and products containing hemp or hemp-derived CBD, whether made from U.S.-produced hemp or from lawfully-imported hemp, to new and existing clients.
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Event
RSVP Today! Our 30th Anniversary Client Summit Is Filling Fast
Held in San Diego on October 3, 2019, this fun day-long event features organics experts like NOP Deputy Administrator Jennifer Tucker, Ph.D., and is free to QAI clients.
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Event
Expo East: QAI Hosting Packaging & Certifications Workshop
Members of the QAI team are heading to another trade show – this time, Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, MD from September 12-14. Director Tracy Favre and key staff look forward to connecting with clients…
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9 Sep
Article
Update: Documents for U.S. Shipments to Korea
Korea has released a revised version of the NAQS Import Certificate of Organic Processed Foods form, for use when importing organic products into Korea under the U.S.-Korea Organic Equivalency Arrangement.
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9 Sep
Article
The NOP Handbook Is Your Friend
Most members of the organic community are likely familiar with the USDA organic regulations. However, not all certified operations know about the National Organic Program (NOP) Handbook. An extremely useful resource for people who own, manage or certify organic operations…
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9 Sep
Article
New Training Program: Organic 101 for New Farmers
In August, 2019, the nonprofit Organic Farm Research Foundation (OFRF) introduced the first learning module, Organic Soil Health Management, in its free online training program for beginning farmers, existing organic farmers and farmers in transition to organic…
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3 Jul
Article
NOSB Spring 2019 Meeting Report
QAI participates in the biannual National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meetings, where proposals related to materials and organic practices are discussed and voted on or sent back to subcommittees for further development. Our staff provides statistics…
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3 Jul
Article
Choose Organic for the Cleanest Milk, New Study Says
Studies have repeatedly shown that organic milk has a healthier nutritional profile. Organic milk contains more of the good omega 3 fatty acids, more antioxidants and a higher nutrient mineral content than conventional milk. Dairy cows under organic management…
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3 Jul
Article
Important Updates: Canada Organic Products Regulations & Product Labels
Requirements for product labels in both the U.S. and Canadian markets have been changing to reflect new rules for nutrition panels and allergens. Sometimes it seems the only constant in product labelling is change!
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Event
You're Invited to QAI’s Client Summit
Exclusive and free to QAI clients, our QAI Client Summit will take place in San Diego’s beautiful Gaslamp Quarter on October 3, 2019.
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3 May
Article
QAI Celebrates 30 Years of Ensuring Organic Integrity!
We are celebrating 30 years!
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3 May
Article
QAI Streamlines NOP and COR Organic Application Forms
Learn how we are making documenting organic compliance more user friendly and efficient.
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3 May
Article
Customer Conversations: Nic’s Organic Fast Food
Meet Neal Zeavy, Co-Founder of Nic’s Organic Fast Food and valued QAI customer.
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3 May
Article
2018 U.S. Farm Bill a Win for the Organic Industry
Increased amounts of U.S.-grown organic foods. Greater supply chain integrity. These are just some ways the bill stands to benefit organic farming.
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2 May
Article
QAI Was at Expo West
Natural Products Expo West is the world’s largest natural and organic products event, held in Anaheim, California. Spanning five days, with 86,000 attendees, the opportunities for innovation, networking and educational events were endless.
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2 May
Article
Customer Conversations: The Hain Celestial Group
Meet Michael Chansilp, Senior Program Manager at the Hain Celestial Group and valued QAI customer.
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2 May
Article
USDA Amends National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances
Get the details about recent amendments made to the NOP’s list of use restrictions and regulations for organic crop and livestock production.
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15 Apr
Video
Organic Nibbles: Healthcare for Organic Livestock
In this video, QAI Reviewer Holly Born describes the basics of health care for organic livestock.
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26 Mar
Video
Organic Nibbles: Agricultural vs. Nonagricultural and Synthetic vs. Nonsyenthetic Materials
How do you get organic certification? Watch this short video from QAI, North America’s leading organic certifier, to learn the process of getting organic certification.
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7 Mar
Article
Quality Assurance International (QAI) Releases New Organic Certification Mark
New mark aims to educate consumers about the full value of organic certification with the slogan, “If it’s organic, it’s non-GMO”
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6 Mar
Article
Celebrate Our 30th Anniversary at Expo West!
QAI is turning 30 and we are marking the occasion at Expo West; come celebrate with us!
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26 Feb
Video
Organic Nibbles: Equivalency Arrangements
This video helps you understand how international equivalency arrangements enable and govern the flow of organic products across international markets.
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26 Feb
Article
Quality Assurance International Announces New Flexible Pricing Model for Organic Certification
New pricing model makes organic certification more affordable for small and mid-size food businesses.
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12 Feb
Video
Organic Nibbles: Organic Product Labels
In this video, QAI Reviewer Jin Eldon describes the various requirements for organic labels to comply with USDA organic regulations.
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11 Feb
Video
Organic Nibbles: Facility Pest Management
Take a look at our latest video about managing pest control in an organic processing facility. QAI Reviewer Adam Seitz walks you through what you need to know.
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4 Dec
Article
New Research Suggests Consumers May Prevent Cancer by Eating Organic Food
It makes sense that eating organic food made without toxic pesticides is better for your health, and more research is proving this point.
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4 Dec
Article
Alexis Randolph Celebrates 20 years at QAI
QAI’s Senior Technical Reviewer, Alexis Randolph celebrates 20 years of service at QAI! An invaluable part of the QAI team, Alexis’ technical expertise and leadership…
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4 Dec
Article
Get the New Version of the IACB EU Standard – Version 18
For QAI clients certified to the full EU organic standard, please note that the International Accredited Certification Bodies (IACB) Equivalent European Union Organic Production and Processing Standard…
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4 Dec
Article
Submit Ideas for GRO Organic, OTA’s Check-off Program
The Organic Trade Association is soliciting ideas for its voluntary check-off program GRO Organic to help the industry fund organic research, promotion and education.
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31 Oct
Video
Food Start-ups Discuss the Importance of Organic Certification
In this video, the leaders at Maxine’s Heavenly and Rachel’s Brand discuss the importance of organic certification.
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31 Oct
Video
LA’s Hottest Food Start-ups Talk Organic and Label Claims
Connect with other food entrepreneurs and get the latest industry insights to help your brand stand out at QAI’s Big Ideas & Brunch events.
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31 Oct
Video
Organic Nibbles: Introduction to Organic Certification
How do you get organic certification? Watch this short video from QAI, North America’s leading organic certifier, to learn the process of getting organic certification.
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31 Oct
Video
Organic Nibbles: Preparing for Organic Inspection
If you are a food handler or processor with an organic certification inspection coming up, watch QAI’s Organic Nibbles video Preparing for Organic Inspection to learn how to get ready for your upcoming on-site audit.
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31 Oct
Video
Organic Nibbles: In/Out Balance for Organic Certification
Learn about in/out balance (also known as mass balance), the audit tool organic inspectors use to determine if a company has enough inventory of an organic ingredient to make its organic finished products.
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31 Oct
Video
Organic Nibbles: Non-Organic Ingredients
Learn the basics of organic certification compliance with QAI.
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12 Oct
Article
Organic Trade Association Releases Full-Page Ad to Refute Misinformation About Organic
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) has issued a full-page ad refuting the misleading claims in a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed, The Organic Industry is Lying to You, which targets the organic industry. In the accompanying press release, the OTA notes…
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12 Oct
Article
QAI Talks Organic at Local High School
This summer QAI visited students in San Diego’s Patrick Henry High School’s AP Environmental Science class to talk about organic farming certification. We were excited to share what we know about organic certification with the next generation…
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11 Oct
Article
QAI Celebrates Its Fresh New Space
A few weeks ago, QAI moved to a new office in San Diego. We’re conveniently just down the street from our old building, which we had been in since our founding in 1989! As the organic industry has taken off, so has the size of our team…
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11 Oct
Article
Hottest Trends at Natural Products Expo East 2018
Natural Products Expo East did not disappoint this year, with so many brands competing to attract attention with giveaways, product launches, live bands and even free massages… yes, free massages!
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26 Sep
Video
San Diego Street Artists Create a Mural in Our New Office
QAI commissioned a custom mural from local street artists, Jason and Frieda Gould of VISUAL, to welcome visitors to our brand new space.
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17 Sep
Article
Reporting Residue Detections to QAI
Did you know that all certified organic operations must report all incidents of prohibited pesticide residue and GMO detections on organic products and ingredients?
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17 Sep
Article
Organic Certification Cost-Share Program
Apply for the National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program and you could get cash back for your organic certification!
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17 Sep
Article
NSF/ANSI 305 Labelling Clarification
Companies with products certified to NSF/ANSI 305 by QAI should be aware that QAI will not allow its corporate logo or certification mark to be used on NSF/ANSI 305 certified products. This is not a change to the standard…
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17 Aug
Article
We’re Moving! New QAI Office Location
QAI is moving to a bigger, brighter office just down the street! Starting September 4, 2018, QAI will be located at our new address: 4370 La Jolla Drive, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92122.
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5 Jul
Video
How Do Food Startups Connect With Retailers?
QAI recently hosted Big Ideas & Brunch, a networking event for food entrepreneurs, at Greenbar Distillery in downtown Los Angeles. We had a great time connecting with amazing food and beverage entrepreneurs and learning their challenges in the ever-changing natural food industry.
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5 Jul
Article
Using the USDA Organic Seal Correctly
Products certified to the USDA organic standard with at least 95 percent organic content may use the USDA Organic Seal. However, it’s really important to use the seal correctly.
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3 Jul
Article
Proud to Be Organic! Annie Chun and Stephen Broad From gimMe
QAI is an industry leader with a great reputation and great customer service. gimMe was the first company/pioneer to create organic roasted seaweed snacks, which were all produced…
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13 Jun
Article
In the Spotlight: Lauren Browning
Hi! I’m Lauren Browning. I recently joined QAI as a Business Development Manager and couldn’t be more thrilled. It has always been a goal of mine to give back and contribute to something bigger…
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13 Jun
Article
NOSB Meeting in Spring 2018
QAI participates in the biannual National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meetings where proposals related to materials and organic practices are discussed and voted on or sent back to the…
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12 Jun
Article
Respond to Corrective Actions with NSF Connect
QAI now uses NSF Connect to facilitate your organic certification! This new online system makes it easier for you to respond, track and upload documents for your certification. With NSF Connect…
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12 Jun
Article
Amendments to Canadian Organic Standards
Our Canadian operators will recall that the Canadian Organic Standards and Permitted Substances List underwent a major revision in 2015. Amendments to the standard and Permitted Substances List was published in March 2018 to make some minor changes, correct errors and provide…
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20 Apr
Video
Organic Nibbles: Organic Certification in Canada
Watch this video about Canadian Organic Regime (COR) certification. QAI Reviewer Roxanne Beavers discusses key aspects of achieving organic certification for sale of products in Canada.
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20 Apr
Article
Help Your Business Stand Out In the Crowded Natural Foods Market
Looking for ways to make your product stand out in the crowded grocery store aisle? Watch our presentation and learn how on-pack label claims…
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23 Mar
Article
Proud to be Organic! Lisa Phares From organicgirl
We feel QAI truly upholds the standards of organic products. Being that we are producing a premium product, we chose an organic certifier who upholds that premium product standard…
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21 Mar
Article
QAI Takes on IOIA Processor Inspector Training
Keeping our skills sharp and staying up to date with auditing technical knowledge and certification best practices is really important to us. So this February, QAI and NSF International (our parent company) staff and food safety inspectors underwent IOIA processor inspector training with instructor…
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21 Mar
Article
QAI Attends Annual Accredited Certifiers Association Meeting in San Antonio, Texas
Several members of QAI’s technical, quality and policy teams attended the annual Accredited Certifiers Association (ACA) Meeting and NOP Training held in San Antonio, Texas, February 6 – 8, 2018.
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21 Mar
Article
Maintaining the Integrity of Your Organic Products - Even When Your Suppliers Are Not Certified!
As a certified organic operator you put enormous effort into maintaining the integrity of your own organic systems, but it’s important to remember that your efforts to verify the integrity of your suppliers are just as vital to consumer confidence and the health of the organic…
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21 Mar
Article
NSF/ANSI 305 Organic Personal Care Product Joint Committee Seeks New Members
With over 368 products and 24 companies currently certified by QAI, and new products being added every day, certification to NSF/ANSI 305 is in high demand.
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21 Mar
Article
2020 Sunset Surveys: OTA Seeking Organic Stakeholder Feedback!
Your feedback is needed! Over the course of its next two meetings, the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) will review several of the fertilizers, pest control products, livestock treatments, processing aids…
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21 Mar
Article
Trends at Natural Products Expo West 2018
This year as always we were energized by quality of innovations and new product introductions at Natural Products Expo West. It’s always great to see our customers growing and achieving success by…
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13 Feb
Article
Opportunities to Submit Public Comment on Changes to the National Organic Program
The National Organic Program (NOP) has published a proposed rule to amend the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. The proposed changes reflect recommendations from…
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13 Feb
Article
Updated Guidelines for Organic Dietary Supplements
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), the Organic Trade Association (OTA) and Quality Assurance International Inc. (QAI) have released of an updated, free resource for the health supplement industry…
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12 Feb
Article
In The Spotlight: Alma Rivera
My name is Alma Rivera Collazo. I am part of a Puerto Rican clan that has based its operations in Tecate, Baja California and, more recently, San Diego. Family is extremely important to me.
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12 Feb
Article
QAI Team Takes Leadership Role in Organic Industry
Jessica Walden, Senior Reviewer and Policy Specialist, has joined the Board of Directors for the Accredited Certifiers Association (ACA). The ACA’s Board of Directors is responsible for oversight of the organization…
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Event
Meet QAI on Our Organic Tour! February 7 - September 15, 2018
QAI is going on the road! We want to help America go organic from coast to coast! Meet our technical experts up close and personal and learn how your brand can get organic certification.
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Event
Webinar: Differentiate Your Business in the Natural Foods Industry April 12, 2018 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm ET
Sign up for our April 12 webinar to learn how on-pack label claims and sustainability initiatives can differentiate your product and minimize supply chain risk – and for the chance to win a YETI soft cooler worth $300.
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26 Jan
Video
Organic Nibbles: Pesticide Residue
Check out our latest video about what happens in the event of pesticide contamination. QAI Senior Reviewer Stephen Grealy reviews the steps QAI takes to address prohibited pesticide residue in organic operations.
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Event
Sustainable Food Summit January 30-31, 2018 San Francisco, CA
We will be moderating the Organic and Eco-Labels Outlook session on the second day of the conference…
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18 Dec
Article
Our Favorite Organic Holiday Recipes
Here at QAI, we’re huge on food – we love coming together to eat! Step into our kitchen on any given day and you’ll find someone’s brought a long-time favorite recipe or new kitchen experiment to share.
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30 Nov
Article
NOSB Meeting Fall 2017
QAI participates in the biannual National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meetings where proposals related to materials and organic practices are discussed and voted on or sent back to the subcommittees for further development.
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30 Nov
Article
Using the QAI Certified Organic Mark Correctly
QAI’s Certified Organic mark is found on thousands of organic products around the world and maintaining consumers’ recognition and trust in it is really important to us. By upholding clear guidelines…
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29 Nov
Article
Looking Back on 2017
It’s been a crazy year in 2017 – one full of incredible growth, but also full of controversy and alarming headlines.
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29 Nov
Article
Be Inspection Ready: High-Risk Organic Imports
As a certified operation, your company has identified and is constantly monitoring all of its organic control points. But how do you ensure organic integrity is maintained in your supply chain?
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29 Nov
Video
Organic Nibbles: The Big 3 Verification
Check our latest video on the “Big 3” prohibited practices for organic certification. QAI Reviewer Katherine Withey walks you through what you need to know.
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6 Nov
Article
Would You Like to Become a Master of Certification?
QAI can help you master certification to leverage the growth opportunity of product label claims! Read on to learn proven techniques from our decades of experience with many different certifications and standards. Our goal is to help you earn multiple certifications…
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16 Oct
Article
NOP Notification on Fraudulent Grain
On August 11, 2017 the U.S. Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP) issued a notification to all accredited certifiers regarding grain imported from several countries that was fraudulently represented as organic. To provide even greater scrutiny of commodities imported from countries considered to be high risk for fraud…
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16 Oct
Article
2017 Sunset Review Final Rule
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has published the sunset 2017 final rule. The rule became effective on June 27, 2017, the current sunset date of the substances. Organic products manufactured on or after this date must comply with the amended regulation.
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16 Oct
Article
Be Inspection Ready: Eight Tips for Managing Organic Vendor Certificates
It is common for inspectors to point out that vendor certificates are not “up to date,” which may seem confusing because the USDA NOP § 205.404 (c) clearly states that…
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16 Oct
Article
Why I Trust USDA Organic Above All Others
QAI's Tracy Favre shared her thoughts about the current state of the organic sector in a guest column published in Sustainable Food News on October 16, 2017…
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13 Oct
Article
QAI Now Offers Certification to Mexico’s Organic Products Law (LPO)
There is welcome news for producers and processors around the world and in Mexico who want full access to the rapidly growing organic market in Mexico: QAI now offers certification to Mexico's Organic Products Law (LPO).
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13 Oct
Article
In the Spotlight: Get to Know Melanie Barnes
Hi! My name is Melanie Barnes, and I’m a certification project manager at QAI. I was born and raised here in San Diego, then went up north to the University of California, Davis to study food science and technology. I graduated from Davis last year, went to Thailand…
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11 Oct
Article
Organic Produce Sales Drive Growth
Organic fresh produce accounted for $1.25 billion in sales at the end of the second quarter of 2017, an 8 percent increase in dollars and a 10 percent rise in volume from the previous year, according to the Organic Produce Network (OPN)…
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11 Oct
Article
Organic Panel at Expo East
This year, QAI exhibited at Expo East and led a standing-room only Certification Made Easy workshop at on organic, non-GMO and gluten-free label claim certifications. We were so inspired by the energy and enthusiasm at the show…
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25 Sep
Article
QAI Encouraged by National Organic Program's Initial Response to USDA OIG Report
The USDA Office of Inspector General’s report on organic import controls raises some serious concerns for those of us in the organic community, but we are encouraged by the National Organic Program’s initial response to the findings and its willingness to address the issues. QAI is actively working with the NOP and the Organic Trade Association (OTA) to protect the integrity of the organic supply chain…
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15 Sep
Article
QAI Not Involved in Regenerative Organic Certified Protocol; NSF International Facilitating Public Comment Process
Quality Assurance International (QAI) remains committed to ensuring the integrity of the organic supply chain from farm to fork and ensuring consumer confidence in the USDA Organic seal. While our parent company, NSF International, is playing a limited role in facilitating public comment on the Rodale Institute's proposed "Regenerative Organic Certified" protocol, QAI has not been involved in the development of this new certification program…
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30 Aug
Article
Alexis Randolph Joins OMRI Board of Directors
Alexis Randolph of Quality Assurance International (QAI) has joined the Board of Directors for OMRI (the Organic Materials Review Institute)…
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27 Jul
Article
QAI Urges Finalization of Animal Welfare Rule
QAI applauds the organic community’s passion for animal welfare and its ongoing commitment to USDA-certified organic…
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26 Jul
Article
QAI Environmental Practices: Mid-Year Update
QAI’s staff members are committed to following earth-friendly practices during their work days…
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10 Jul
Article
QAI, Inc. Approved to Certify Organics for the Mexican Market to Mexico’s Organic Products Law (LPO)
National and international food and ingredient companies can seek LPO certification by QAI providing…
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03 May
Article
NSF International Launches Raised Without Antibiotics Certification
New protocol helps consumers identify animal products that do not contribute to growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria…
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28 Apr
Article
Get the New Version of the IACB EU Standard
For QAI clients certified to the full EU standard, please note that the International Accredited Certification…
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28 Apr
Article
QAI’s Vision and Focus on Customer Service
Hello folks! This year is well underway and it’s one to celebrate as QAI begins our 28th year as an organic certifier…
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28 Apr
Article
QAI Environmental Practices
2017 is QAI’s seventh year of being certified under the environmental management system (EMS) standard ISO 14001:2004…
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28 Apr
Article
New Rules for Shipping Documents for Organic Imports to the EU
2017 brings changes in the documentation that will be required for shipments of product to the EU 28 Member States…
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28 Apr
Article
Import Certificates Now Verified During Annual Audit
For NOP clients receiving product from and certified to a national standard or regulation of the Republic of Korea, Japan, Switzerland or the EU 28 Member States, note that it is required that the product or ingredient travel with an NOP Import Certificate…
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28 Apr
Article
NOP Import Certificates for Mexico
Guidelines and regulations for organic production and marketing in Mexico, which were published in October 2013, will be implemented in May 2017…
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28 Apr
Article
NOP Materials Up for Five-Year Sunset Review
QAI participates in the biannual National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) meetings where materials allowed for use in organic production are reviewed on a five-year cycle from date of approval…
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28 Apr
Article
In the Spotlight: Meet Holly Born, Reviewer
Hi! I’m Holly Born, and I have been a reviewer at QAI since June 2016. It’s a great place to work and I learn something new every day from my amazing coworkers and the wide range of clients we serve.…
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28 Apr
Article
Organic Certification Cost Share Programs
Producers and handlers can now apply for federal reimbursement to assist with the cost of receiving and maintaining organic certification…
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27 Apr
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05 Apr
Article | People.com
Want to Buy Green Beauty? Here's What All Those Buzzwords Mean
In recent years, the trend towards green beauty has transitioned from “super crunchy” to “majorly mainstream,”…
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20 Dec
Article
In the Spotlight: Meet Stanley Edwards, Senior Reviewer
Hi! My name is Stanley Edwards and I’ve been a Senior Reviewer at QAI since April 2016. I have 20 years’ experience in the organic industry, primarily as an independent inspector and reviewer for QAI…
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20 Dec
Article
Compliance With Revised Canadian Organic Standards and Permitted Substances Lists Now Required
As of November 26, 2016, certified organizations must be in compliance with the latest version of these Canadian organic standards…
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20 Dec
Article
NOP Program Handbook Updated for Calculating Organic Content and Classifying Materials
The National Organic Program (NOP) has issued significant policy updates regarding how to calculate organic content of products (NOP 5037) and how to classify materials (NOP 5033) as agricultural or non-agricultural and as synthetic or non-synthetic.…
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20 Dec
Article
Materials Removed from U.S. National Organic Program
As of September 12, 2016, the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) removed the following materials from the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and they are no longer allowed for use in organic production…
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20 Dec
Article
QAI at Industry Events
QAI participated on the Certified Transitional: Approaches to the Market Panel at the recent Organic & Non-GMO Forum held in Minneapolis, MN…
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20 Dec
Article
Be Inspection Ready: What You Need to Know About Residue Testing
Ever tell a friend that you are a producer or handler of certified organic products and get the question, “Does that mean you do residue tests to verify that your products are organic?” The answer can be lengthy and chances are your audience will soon get the “deer in the headlights” look…
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20 Dec
Article
Be Inspection Ready: Do You Have Access to Historical Inventory Data?
Each inspection work order includes the instruction to carry out one and sometimes several “in and out balance” audit(s). This process requires clients to demonstrate that a sufficient amount of a raw material was available to meet the quantities of finished goods manufactured and sold over a time frame exceeding one month…
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07 Nov
Article
QAI Names Organic Industry Veteran Tracy Favre New Director
Quality Assurance International, a Department of Agriculture-accredited organic certifier for more than 25 years, has appointed organic industry leader Tracy Favre as its new Director…
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01 Aug
Article
In the Spotlight: Meet Kayo Tsunenari, Group Lead
Hello! My name is Kayo Tsunenari. I was born and raised in Osaka, Japan, where we have an expression, Kuidaore, literally meaning "to eat oneself bankrupt” to describe Osaka people’s obsession with food…
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01 Aug
Article
Is it Organic? Task Force Examines Hydroponics and Aquaponics
Should crops grown by hydroponics and aquaponics be allowed to obtain organic certification? The National Organic Program (NOP) created the Hydroponic and Aquaponic Task Force in September 2015 to answer this question…
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01 Aug
Article
European Commission Approves Three GM Soybeans for EU Import
The European Commission has authorized three genetically modified soybeans to be sold for food and feed in Europe. The soybeans are MON87708 x MON89788, MON87705 x MON89788 and FG 72…
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01 Aug
Article
QAI in the Community
In addition to certifying products as organic, the QAI team also takes a more hands-on approach to farming. Several QAI staff members volunteer at Wild Willow Farm and Education Center, a six-acre working farm in San Diego that grows vegetables, greens, medicinal and culinary herbs, and cover crops…
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01 Aug
Article
QAI Launches Certified Transitional Program
While consumer demand for all things organic is growing by leaps and bounds, less than 1 percent of U.S. farmland is certified organic. Organic certification for producers can be expensive…
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27 May
Article | Kashi.com
A Closer Look at Certified Transitional
As part of our series of Certified Transitional blog posts we interviewed Sarah Krol, Global Managing Director at QAI and asked her to tell us about QAI, the details behind Certified Transitional, how it was developed and what it means for farmers and consumers…
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17 May
Article
QAI Provides Farmers Economic Pathway to Organic; Kashi First to Certify
QAI launches Certified Transitional, the first and only program to certify entire food supply chain and provide on-package “Certified Transitional Mark”…
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17 May
Article | Kashi.com
A Transition To Better
Two years ago, a small team here at Kashi set off on a journey that would forever change the way we view organic farming. But at the time, we had no idea…
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17 May
Article
In the Spotlight: Meet Ellery Ward, Certification Project Manager
Hi! My name is Ellery Ward, and I am a Certification Project Manager at QAI. I joined QAI’s parent company NSF International as an intern, and I learned a lot about its Non-GMO Project verification and gluten-free certification services…
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30 Mar
Article
Updates to the Canadian Organic Standards and Permitted Substances Lists (PSL)
Have you heard? The Canadian Organic Standards and the Permitted Substances Lists (PSL) have been revised. The process of revision involved many stakeholders from the organic sector across Canada, and has resulted in many changes to all aspects of the standard (crop, livestock and processing)…
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30 Mar
Article
Clearing the Path to Organic: A “Sound and Sensible” Approach
The USDA continues its campaign to remove roadblocks to organic certification. With more workshops, blog posts, tip sheets and an informative interactive video, the Sound and Sensible Initiative has added resources to aid in the process…
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30 Mar
Article
Policy Change on Corrective Action Response Extension Requests and Mediation Fees
The USDA continues its campaign to remove roadblocks to organic certification. With more workshops, blog posts, tip sheets and an informative interactive video, the Sound and Sensible Initiative has added resources to aid in the process…
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30 Mar
Article
Answers to Top NOP Handler Questions
We are sharing the answers to some of the questions we receive most frequently from handlers…
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26 Oct
Article
Eleven Materials Removed From National List
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) voted on maintaining or removing over 200 materials currently allowed by the National Organic Program at a meeting October 26-29 in Stowe, VT. The vote resulted in 11 materials being removed from the National List.
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