Professional Documents
Culture Documents
0rganics - Organic Veg Production Guide To Converting
0rganics - Organic Veg Production Guide To Converting
The information contained in this publication is intended for general use to assist public knowledge and discussion and to help improve
the development of sustainable regions. You must not rely on any information contained in this publication without taking specialist advice
relevant to your particular circumstances. While reasonable care has been taken in preparing this publication to ensure that information is
true and correct, the Commonwealth of Australia gives no assurance as to the accuracy of any information in this publication.
The Commonwealth of Australia, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), the authors or contributors
expressly disclaim, to the maximum extent permitted by law, all responsibility and liability to any person, arising directly or indirectly from
any act or omission, or for any consequences of any such act or omission, made in reliance on the contents of this publication, whether or
not caused by any negligence on the part of the Commonwealth of Australia, RIRDC, the authors or contributors. The Commonwealth of
Australia does not necessarily endorse the views in this publication.
This publication is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, all other rights are reserved. However, wide
dissemination is encouraged. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the RIRDC Publications
Manager on phone 02 6272 3186.
Agdex disclaimer
The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Because of advances in
knowledge, however, users are reminded of the need to ensure that information on which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of
the information with the appropriate officer of the NSW Department of Primary Industries or the users independent adviser.
Other contributors:
Dr. Sandra McDougall and Andrew Watson from NSW Department of Primary Industries National Vegetable Industry Centre, Joseph
Ekman, from NSW Department of Primary Industries National Centre for Greenhouse Horticulture, Genevieve Carruthers, NSW
Department of Primary Industries Wollongbar Agricultural Institute, Jim Murison, at time of contribution NSW Department of Primary
Industries Agsell, Sydney. Catriona MacMillan, Heaven and Earth Systems Pty Ltd, Tamarama NSW. Ruth Lovisolo, at time of contribution
Manager, Food Standards Policy, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, now
Manager, Codex
Australia, AFFA, Canberra.
Funded by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation and the NSW Department of Primary Industries with assistance
from Biological Farmers of Australia Co-op Ltd and National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia Ltd
Publication designed and published by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
In submitting this report, the researcher has agreed to RIRDC publishing the material in its edited form.
Front cover: Organic farmers use a range of innovative techniques to manage weeds. Pictured is a tractor-mounted hot-air weed steamer. Photo: R Neeson.
by Robyn Neeson
NSW Department of Primary Industries, Yanco
RIRDC Publication Number 07/137
iii
This document offers a comprehensive view of organic farming and the paddock-to-plate requirements for
successful organic vegetable production. It is one of three guides developed for organic agricultural systemsone
each for vegetables, rice and soybeans, and rangeland livestock production. The guides arose as a result of a larger
project that was coordinated by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and jointly sponsored by the Rural
Industries Research and Development Corporation.
A series of workshops for NSW Department of Primary Industries staff and organic industry specialists
underpinned the guides development. During these workshops the similarities and differences between
conventional and organic systems were discussed and, where possible, ways of overcoming any perceived
impediments to conversion were identified. This formed the framework for the draft publications. Stage two of the
project involved presentation of the drafts to organic and conventional producers at additional workshops across
regional New South Wales and a final review by organic certifying organisations.
This publication does not aim to be prescriptive; rather, it provides a framework for organic conversion and
pathways towards conversion. In addition to general organic principles, each guide describes possible methods
of organic production for the commodity in question, the market potential, possible marketing strategies, the
economics of production, processing requirements, and quality assurance.
True evaluation of the publication lies with practitioners. The authors hope the information provided will help
make the transition to organic production a smooth one.
The project was funded from RIRDC core funds, which are provided by the Australian Government.
This report, an addition to RIRDCs diverse range of over 1700 research publications, forms part of the Organic
Systems R&D Program, which aims to deliver R&D to facilitate the organic industrys capacity to meet rapidly
increasing demanddomestically and globally.
Most of RIRDCs publications are available for viewing, downloading or purchasing online through the RIRDC
website:
downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/fullreports/index.html
purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop
Peter OBrien
Managing Director
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
vi
vii
Appendices 91
Appendix A Sources of information and other contacts 91
Appendix B Farming inputs 97
Bibliography 101
viii
ix
CODEX
(International) AQIS
National
Organic Standard Organic
Certifiers
Organic Inspectors
Domestic
Consumers Distributors Processors
and and Farmer
Exporters Manufacturers Producers
Export
Consumers
Figure 1.1 C
ertification framework for the Australian organic industry.
Source: May and Monk (2001)
Table 1.1 National values of horticultural organic produce: farm-gate and retail prices, 200001
Farm-gate price Retail price
Product $000 % of national organic production $000
Vegetables 11 509 13 25 148
Fruit 4 070 5 8 889
General 2 249 3 4 915
Citrus 3 416 4 7 464
Grapes 348 0 659
Dried fruit 544 1 999
Nuts
Total 22 136 25 48 075
Source: Adapted from Wynen (2003).
10
Organic farmers use a range of innovative techniques to manage weeds. Pictured is a tractor-mounted hot-air weed steamer. Photo: R Neeson.
11
12
Do I keep thorough records of crop rotations and any inputs used? Do I have a You need to deal
Does my management conform to organic non-certified area to contain treated or non-organic stock? with these things
standards? and incorporate
Have I located and isolated sources of contamination such as old chemical NO strategies in your
dumps? Are my storage areas free of chemical residues? organic
Do I require specialised farming equipment, for example, for weed control? management plan
YES before applying for
Have I identified potential sources of certified organic inputs? organic inspection.
Figure 3.2 How far away am I from being ready to apply for organic certification?
13
22/11/2007 2:06:00 PM
certification organisations the certifying organisation. The
organic consultants certifiers standards are based on the
organic (and conventional) National Standard for Organic and
producer groups Biodynamic Produce, which sets
out the minimum requirements for
books and other publications
production, processing and labelling
crop and market forecasts of organic produce. The Australian
organic wholesalers, retailers and Quarantine and Inspection
exporters Service administers the national
short courses and workshops standard and audits each approved
for example, Integrated Pest certifying organisation to ensure
Management courses run by the it complies with the requirements
NSW Department of Primary of the national standard, the
Industries Export Control (Organic Produce
agricultural research and Certification) Orders 1997 and
development organisationsfor importing countries requirements.
example, the Rural Industries The national standard can be
Should I Convert to Organic Farming?
Research and Development viewed on the AQIS website. Information to support your decision. By Viv
Corporation Burnett, Robyn Neeson & Dr Els Wynen
the internet 3.3 Conversion and Provides information on organic production to
broadacre grain farmers to help them with the organic
universities, agriculture colleges certification conversion process. Discusses the inadequate provision
and TAFE collegesespecially Conversion refers to the physical of information to farmers on organic production, and the
relative isolation (geographic, information support) of
their libraries and biological changes the farmer farmers who wish to convert their farms. RIRDC Pub. No.
organic (and conventional) and the farming system must make 05/084. $16
farmers newslettersfor in order to comply with organic
example, NSW DPIs Vegiebites standards. Certification refers to conversion process calls for a high
Newsletter and journals and the formal process of assessment level of commitment and often
papers such as Acres Australia designed to lead to accreditation of entails financial risk. Furthermore,
and Good Fruit and Vegetables the farming system as compliant there is little in the way of detailed
field days, agricultural trade with organic standards. Before information and advice about how
shows, conferences and going down the conversion path, to embark on the venture.
workshops. farmers should ask themselves the
questions posed in Figure3.2. Basically, the conversion process
This list is by no means conclusive,
begins with personal conversion
but it offers a good starting point.
3.3.1 Conversion attitude and approach. It is then
planning important to develop a planning
When seeking information, people
framework. Often called an
planning to convert to organics Converting to organic farming is
organic management plan, the
should not limit themselves to not a short-term project, and there
framework accommodates changes
organic networks. Much of are no fixed methods for doing it.
in production methods and the
the information available to Each farm unit is a unique system,
potential financial consequences
conventional farmers is equally and successful conversion requires
and outlines strategies for continued
relevant to organic practitioners careful assessment of the resources
adherence to organic standards.
(and vice versa), particularly as available and the interactions
It should also set out the steps to
conventional agriculture investigates between components of the system.
be followed during conversion
ways of reducing reliance on
A degraded resource base and and a time scale over which the
chemicals.
economic pressures resulting from conversion will occur. Preparation
Important information to have is previous land use can constitute of such a plan is an essential pre-
a copy of the organic production the biggest constraints to successful certification activity.
standards. Each certifier has its conversion, and more specialised
own standard, which is available and intensive farms will generally 3.3.2 Developing an
on-request. Some certifiers take longer to convert. These organic management
standards are on their website. The systems require more time and plan
standard adopted will depend on effort to reintroduce diversity. The When developing an organic
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Organic crop agronomy differs These design considerations Generally, however, the following
according to the growth cycle of greatly affect a producers ability to rules should be applied:
the crop species in question. These effectively manage pests, weeds and
Avoid repeat cropping with the
species can be broadly classified into diseases organically.
same species. For crop rotation to
three production groups:
be effective, vegetables belonging
4.2.1 The rotation to the same plant family should
perennialpermanent planting, sequence
often with a dormant non- not be planted in the same
Perhaps the most crucial location for two or three years,
growth period. An example is
management decision for an or perhaps even longer if soil
asparagus
organic vegetable farmer is the borne diseases are known to
broadacre annualannual design of the cropping rotation, exist. This avoids the potential
growth cycle; extensive longer which should meet the farmers for pest and disease build-up.
rotation; may include legumes production and financial needs Knowledge of which insects,
and/or green manures, cereals while also implementing sustainable diseases and weeds may cause
and livestock in the rotation. agricultural practices. problems, their life cycles, and
Examples are pumpkin, potatoes,
the conditions that favour their
beets, and carrots The choice of vegetable crops and development is essential, to help
intensive annualseasonal their relationship with one another, plan the rotation and to develop
growth cycle; intensive rotation; with fertility building and with pest management strategies to avoid
usually includes planting of and diseasebreaking crops such or overcome problems.
intermittent green manure crops. as pastures and green manures are Crop rotation and weed control.
Examples are leaf vegetables (for all factors that must be considered Some crops and cropping
example, lettuce and Chinese when deciding on the rotation conditions seem to encourage
greens), tomatoes and brassicas design. Other factors that should be particular weed problems.
(for example, broccoli). taken into account are the market These problems can occur in
for the chosen crops, the available the current crop or in the next
Organic vegetable systems are by no
resources (for example, labour and seasons crop. It is important to
means limited to these three systems.
equipment), the economics of the note and record these weeds,
For example, perennial species such
rotation and, if they are to be a part particularly during the early
as asparagus can be interplanted
of the rotation, the role of livestock. planning stages, so that it is
with annual vegetables or herbs.
possible to plan their control
These systems are further 4.2.2 Rotation rules when those conditions recur
influenced by the system design. A Although there are a number of in the rotation. Some crops
number of aspects of design need to rules that should be followed when and weeds can affect the
be considered: designing a rotation, flexibility is a growth of subsequent crops or
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
30
31
tomatoes, onions and carrots, and usually results in considerable 4.7 Weeds
melons. tail drainage, and this should be
collected into a drainage recycling The use of synthetic herbicides is
Drip irrigation is the most efficient prohibited under organic standards,
system. The recycling saves water,
form of irrigation. It provides and many organic producers say
reduces nutrient loading in off-
water directly to the plant, rather that effective weed management is
farm waterways, and provides an
than wetting the entire soil surface, one of the greatest impediments to
opportunity to increase biodiversity
which can encourage additional conversion and successful organic
through wetland construction. The
weed growth. It has the further vegetable production.
NSW Department of Primary
advantage that nutrients can be
Industries publication Managing
supplied by fertigation to the crop
Wetlands on Farms (1995) is a useful 4.7.1 Planning a weed
during the growing season. Cultural
guide to planning and establishing management program
operations can, however, be made The following principles should be
on-farm wetlands. The NSW
more difficult if the drip lines are considered when planning a weed
DPI Agnote: Managing waste
laid on the beds surface. management program:
water from intensive horticulture: a
Drip lines can be installed beneath wetland system, can be viewed at: <
http://www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/ Learn to identify weeds. Learn
the surface to facilitate cultural about weed lifecycles and
operations, although roots can horticulture-wastewater/dpi381.
pdf?MIvalObj=10076&doctype=do growth habitsincluding the
grow into the lines and cause time of emergence, growth
blockages. Most subsurface drip cument&MItypeObj=application/
rates, the method of dispersion,
is impregnated with a herbicide pdf&name=/dpi381.pdf>
and the time of seed setand
to prevent root intrusion, so why the weeds are filling that
organic producers need to inform Irrigation management is also a
ecological niche.
manufacturers that they require valuable tool for controlling weeds.
Strategic scheduling of irrigation Maintain a longer term outlook,
herbicide-free drip line. Seasonal
can be used to germinate weeds rather than focusing only on
flushing of lineswith an
so that control action can be taken the current or coming season.
organically approved substance
should be carried out to ensure that before the main crop is planted. It is necessary to determine
the lines are kept free of blockages. how weeds can be managed
Producers should consider throughout the rotation. Seed
Furrow irrigation is another undertaking an irrigation bank reduction can take a
form of irrigation commonly management course such as number of years.
used in vegetable production, Water Wise on the Farm. These Take an integrated approach
but it is becoming less popular are offered by state agriculture to weed management. Avoid
because of increased water costs departments and in some cases can relying on a limited number of
and environmental awareness. be a prerequisite to obtaining an methods. Be innovative with
Furrow irrigation of row crops irrigation licence. equipment, tillage and rotations.
32
33
34
Post-emergent flaming is
accomplished either by cross-
flaming or by parallel-flaming. In
cross-flaming, burners are set on
either side of the crop row, in a
staggered pattern, the burners being
placed perpendicular to the row, so Flame weeding in corn. Source: Nova Scotia Agricultural College, <www.nsac.ns.ca/eng/staff/ nri/
that the combined flames cover the flameweeding.htm>.
35
36
37
38
STEP 1
KNOWLEDGE
Figure 4.1 An integrated pest management system. Source: Adapted by S McDougall (2001).
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
Asparagus
Pumpkins
Tomatoes
49
50
52
53
54
Given favourable growing reputable supplier will need to be family, or similar characteristic be
conditions, organic pumpkins found. Records proving that an planted for more than 2 years out of
will yield around 40 tonnes to the effort has been made to source 5 within the rotation. Furthermore,
hectare, are relatively easy to store, organic seed must be provided to the standards require that a green
handle and transport and, if markets the organic certifier. If an open- manure, annual legume or pasture
are not over-supplied, can provide pollinated variety is grown it will ley phase be grown at least one year
a good return for producers. The produce seed that will breed true to in three, except where soil fertility
organic market should be well type provided cross-pollination with and structural characteristics are
researched as oversupply is a danger. other pumpkin or squash varieties entirely met by the importation
does not occur) so, alternatively, you of composted manures or other
Variety selection could raise and collect your own permitted varieties of organic
Markets should be assessed prior seed. matter.
to planting to determine consumer
preference. Butternuts, Jarrahdale Rotation design Ground preparation and
and Jap pumpkins are commonly Pumpkins prefer a high nutrition planting
grown. Organic markets may prefer regime that would generally follow
Like other vegetables, good seedbed
some of the older varieties, while a green manure (legumes and
preparation is essential for pumpkin
processors may be quite specific grasses) or an intensive composting
production. The seedbed should be
in their requirements. If over- program. Pumpkins spreading
weed free and reasonably clod free.
supply occurs, you may have to sell growth habit and leaf size gives
your produce on the conventional it a competitive advantage over Pumpkins are generally grown
market. With this in mind, you may weeds, and provides an opportunity on well-formed beds. Following
wish to consider growing varieties as a cleaning crop to precede a green manure incorporation and
such as Japanese hybrids that sell less competitive vegetable such as
scarifying, the field is hilled and,
well in conventional markets. onions in the rotation. Potatoes
if compost is to be applied, it is
are another excellent cleaning crop
Varieties will differ in their yielding deposited between a series of hills,
and if grown back-to-back with
ability, vigour and pest and disease which are later combined to form
pumpkins in a rotation can provide
resistance so it is advisable to a bed. This places the compost
a good preceding rotation for root
investigate how the variety selected directly below the planting row,
crops, which are among the most
performs in your region. The allowing the pumpkin immediate
difficult of vegetables to keep weed
growth characteristics of the variety free access to the compost as it grows
will also determine cultural aspects into it.
such as planting distance. To minimise the risk of disease
carryover, pumpkins ideally should Alternatively, compost application
Production of pumpkins is usually not be grown where another could be split, with half applied and
from seed sown directly in the member of the cucurbit family e.g., incorporated during primary tillage,
field. The National Standard for watermelons, cucumber, zucchini, thus facilitating decomposition
Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce has been grown in the previous year. of the green manure, and the
requires seed to be organically remainder applied during bed
produced, unless suitable quantity Organic standards require that no forming or surface-applied
and quality is unavailable, so a annual crop of the same species, following planting.
55
56
Downy mildew
In coastal districts downy mildew
(Pseudoperonospora cubensis) is more
common and is favoured by cool,
wet weather. Symptoms are yellow
leaf spots that soon turn brown.
Faint purple spore growth develops
on the lower leaf surface and if the
spots are numerous, the leaf shrivels
and dies. Control is usually achieved
organically with copper sprays (note
that under the national organic
standards this is restricted use). Pollination is needed to set the pumpkin fruit
57
58
Large-scale monoculture in the family include eggplant, pasture or lucerne well before
production is a feature of capsicum and potatoes. Rotation planting, allowing adequate time
conventional processing tomato design should avoid preceding for decomposition and ground
operations. tomatoes with other solanaceous preparation.
species, thus reducing the potential
Processing tomatoes are for pest, disease and weed carryover. Tomatoes have a relatively shallow
mechanically harvested and Rotation to non-solanaceous root system, extending down to
transported in bulk carriers to crops for three years is usually around 30cm. It may be good
processors. recommended to avoid pest practice to follow the rotation with
problems common to this group of a deeper-rooted species able to
vegetables. extract nutrients from deeper in the
soil profile.
If an intensive market garden regime
is practised or where long rotations Paddock layout could include
are impractical, green manuring tomatoes inter-planted with
Organic production on the same should be implemented. This insectary species. This practice
scale is unlikely to be successful. involves
practice will help to increase organic
However, careful field layout matter, biological activity and Inter-planting the main crop with
involving intercropping with other nutrient reserves prior to cropping species they are more attractive
species or staggering plantings could and will also favour the suppression to pests than the main crop (also
increase the scale of operations and of soil-borne diseases. A green known as trap cropping) or that
extend the harvest period. manure grown prior to planting provides a food source (such as
should be well incorporated, with nectar) for beneficial species, which
Organic producers sell directly to minimal crop residue apparent migrate into the main crop and
wholesalers or processors or carry before planting the tomatoes. predate on pests.
out some form of on-farm value-
adding. Ideally, a green manure should Trials in cotton have shown pest
consist of a range of deep and control benefits from inter-planting
A large range of processed organic shallow rooted herb, legume and cotton with 20m x 1m rows of
tomato products is produced. This grass species. Sod crops preceding lucerne (totalling 4% of the area
includes pasta sauces, salsas, juices, tomatoessuch as grass pasture planted). Research investigating
ketchup, baby food, tinned whole and small grains cropsmay result layout of chickpeas as a trap crop
and pieces, dried tomatoes and in heavy cutworm and/or wireworm for Heliothis armigera in cotton has
pastes. damage to tomatoes. shown that blocks of chickpeas
are more effective than strips or
Most of the organic processed Some producers practice long patches.
tomato products currently on the rotations where the tomato crop
Australian market are imported. is preceded by a 3-year legume- More research needs to be
based pasture or lucerne crop. In undertaken on suitable species for
Rotation design this instance, nitrogen requirements inter-planting in tomatoes and on
Tomatoes belong to the botanical of the tomato crop should be the ratio of main crop to insectary
family Solanaceae. Other members met by ploughing down the crop for optimum benefit.
59
Selecting crops to include in a green manure it is important to use a range of root systems that can explore, work
and enrich the soil. Shown here, from left, are oats, faba beans and fodder rape. Source: NSW Department of
Organic fertiliser Primary Industries
60
61
62
63
Aphids
These feed on the underside of
leaves, causing curling and reduced
growth potential. The feeding of
large numbers of aphids results in
excretion of honeydew that supports
the growth of secondary fungal
diseases. Aphids may also act as
The Green Vegetable Bug (Nezara viridula) is one of the more difficult pests to organically control.
vectors of certain virus diseases of Photo: R. Neeson
tomato. Virus transmission has
been observed when lucerne is pyrethrum. Pyrethrum is harmful to parasitoid wasp (Trissolcusspp.) and
interplanted to attract beneficials. beneficials so treatment should aim parasitic fly (Trichopoda spp.) are
to avoid their peak activity, but still two predators of GVB.
Research has shown that reflective contact aphids.
polyethylene mulch placed on beds The CSIRO has conducted trials
before transplanting significantly Organic farmers have reported aimed at establishing the South
reduces the rate of colonisation by good control of aphids with spray American parasitoid, Trichopoda
winged aphids and whiteflies, and applications of garlic oil, when it is giacomellii, at sites in south-eastern
can delay the build-up of damaging combined with mineral oil and pure QLD and northern NSW. Results
numbers of aphids by 4 to 6 weeks. soap.
indicate that T. giacomellii has
Green vegetable bug (Nezara successfully established in these
Control of aphids
viridula) regions and is now impacting on
Common natural predators of the abundance of GVB at sites
aphids are lady beetles and their The green vegetable bug (Nezara
viridula), or GVB, also damages in northern NSW. Ants are also
larvae, lacewing larvae, and syrphid
fruit through the sucking and known to be effective predators of
fly larvae. Aphid parasitoids,
piercing feeding action, although GVB.
Aphidius spp, can occur naturally
in the field, but often only when there are no reports of disease
transmission through this activity. Crop nutrition. Some organic
aphids are in large numbers.
Tomato fruit that is attacked farmers apply foliar sprays when
Aphidius spp are commercially
reared in New Zealand, while develops mottled areas. the plant is under insect attack,
green lacewings Mallada signata are believing this improves plant health
commercially available in Australia. Organic control of GVB is and renders the crop less attractive
difficult. Release of predatory to pests.
Organically acceptable pesticides wasps and natural predation are
to control aphids are sprays the common control methods Two of the most common foliar
of insecticidal soap or natural relied upon by organic producers. A sprays are kelp and fish emulsion.
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
PLAN
AUDIT DOCUMENT
Monitor and improve the Develop product specifications,
performance of the quality system production and marketing strategies
IMPLEMENT
Develop process specifications
Implement these strategies to manage
people, product, activities and services
Figure 6.1 The quality system cycle. Source: Adpated from Ekman 1997
71
72
Documentation. Documentation
can help make decisions,
assist in running the business,
and help staff do their job.
More paperwork does not,
however, mean better systems.
One of the aims of a quality
system is to reduce wastage,
so it is important not to
create excessive paperwork.
People drive a quality
systemnot paperwork. Organic bread found in Woolworths supermarkets.
73
Development of a HACCP
plan will identify the
requirements of a business
to implement these support
programs. The food standards
will require all food production
and handling businesses to
develop an auditable food safety
plan. The degree of complexity
required in a food safety plan
will reflect the complexity of
business operations and the type
of product and its associated
risks; that is, the food safety
plan for a small grower may
be far simpler than that for a
larger, more complex operation,
although the same principles
apply.
74
75
In their development,
environmental management Environmental Management Systems in Agriculture (Part 1 and 2)Case Studies from Australian and
New Zealand farmers by Genevieve Carruthers. RIRDC publication numbers 03/121 and 05/032.
systems all follow much the
same path. In the case of previously established are In the case of an organic farmer,
ISO14000, there are five steps being met. Such methods as the required specifications
to developing and using an environmental performance would be one of the AQIS-
EMS: evaluation, laboratory accredited organic certifying
analyses of emissions, organisations standards,
C
ommitment and policy. Here financial records examination in addition to any current
commitment is developed at and staff understanding of legislation (federal or state),
all levels of the business or training programs may be as well as industry codes of
enterprise, from management used to assess whether the practices to suit the particular
down to the most junior environmental plan is being enterprise.
levels. The policy is defined met.
and developed. R
eview and improvement. Use of EMSs and organic
P lanning. This is where the Here the data gathered in the farming to achieve
policy is translated into things previous phase are put to use. environmental health
to be done. A number of steps Were targets met? If not, why
The use of EMSs is one tool
are usually involved, from a not? What can be improved?
in a range of methods designed
review of the environmental What worked well and why?
to facilitate the management
aspects and impacts of the ISO 14000 specifies that
of agricultural land, using
business, the identification continuous improvement of
a system-based approach
of legal requirements for the management system
rather than focusing on crisis
compliance and the setting note: not the environmental
management. Organic farming
of objectives and targets performanceis required.
is also a way of examining
through to establishing the The various environmental the whole system of farm
environmental management management systems differ in operations, starting with soil
program. how prescriptive they are with health and its overall effects
I mplementation. This is the regard to the ways to achieve on farm components through
doing of the plan. This improved environmental to all facets of production.
phase requires the provision management. ISO 14000 The difference really is one of
of resources and support does not specify particular degree: use of an EMS is not
mechanisms to ensure environmental targets; these prescriptive in terms of what
that the environmental are set by the person/company/ can be used on the farm but
management plan is achieved business setting up the EMS. does specify that all operations
and may include staff training However, all schemes do require and processes used on the farm
programs to ensure that the that the EMS developed must need to be considered in the
objectives of the policy and use as minimum standards light of their potential impact
plan can be met. legislated requirements and/or on the environmentthe so-
M easuring and evaluation. (if available) industry codes of called cradle-to-grave approach.
This phase checks to see if practice or best management
the objectives and targets practice. Organic farming may look at
76
77
78
79
Organic
producer
Specific Fully
organic Tight organic S pecific traceable Customer
Certifier Organic transport organic labelled (for
product Consumer
producer and processing certified example,
specifications
handling standards organic exporters,
standard product retail)
Organic
producer
Single processor with high
technology, enabling full
trace-back to property
Figure 6.2 The supply chain model concept for organic products
be certified to process the organic (NSW Agriculture 1997). Catriona shown that 12per cent of
product and have the requisite Macmillan, Heaven & Earth Australian consumers are
export clearances for the markets Systems P/L, contributed what interested in organics. It is
the group is targeting. follows.] up to you to harness that
interest into profitability. The
If not already certified to process Key elements in selling organic competition is tough, a world
organic products, the processor products are promotion, of multinational companies
should establish procedures packaging and presentation. who can and do spend
and standards that ensure the Organic products generally millions trying to convince
segregation of the organic product command a premium in the the consumer their product is
throughout the processing plant, marketplace. Consumers what our product really is
including packaging and storage for paying a premium price expect environmentally responsible,
shipment. Full traceability to each a quality product that looks natural, clean and green.
farm, and even paddock, will need well packaged and presented. Organic is unique product
to be demonstrated. Further, the consumer needs to and needs to be promoted as
be educated about why they are such.
6.4 P
roduct promotion, buying a premium product P
articipate in joint promotional
80
81
82
C
onsumers have
high expectations and
unrealistically want perfect-
looking produce.
C
onsumers assume that
if it looks hygienic it must
be healthy that sterility
equates with goodness, and
that soil on potatoes and
lettuces means germs and
work to clean. Fear of food
contamination is also a great
concern for retailers and
consumers.
O
rganic broccoli travels better
in ice and polystyrene, but Logos can be a powerful tool for recognition. Personalise them and they can leave a lasting impression.
83
84
85
86
7.1 Export requirements organic produce and the need the National Standard for
to provide assurances about Organic and Biodynamic
[This section is reproduced from Produce on 10 February 1992.
the integrity of the product.
Marketing Organic and Biodynamic
European Commission The 3rd edition of the standard
Products, Conference proceedings
regulations for the import of is currently available in draft
(NSW Agriculture 1997). It was
organic produce into countries form.
contributed by Ruth Lovisolo,
of the European Union require
then Manager, Food Standards The standard sets out the
the competent authority in the
Policy, Australian Quarantine and minimum requirements for
exporting country to oversee the
Inspection Service.] production, processing and
organic industry.
labelling of organic produce. It
The potential for exports of
By 1990 Australia had also establishes the minimum
organic produce has increased
gained a niche market in the requirements for inspection of
from a niche market in Europe
European Union for organic individuals producing organic
to wide interest from consumers
produce. While this market products and the minimum
among a number of Australias
has continued to grow, since requirements for certifying
trading partners. To ensure that
then other markets have also such operators. Any producer
the integrity of organic produce
opened up for organic produce. or processor who wants to
is not compromised and to meet
Among them are Switzerland, export produce that is labelled
the requirements of importing
Japan, the United States, organic or biodynamic must
countries, the Australian
Singapore and Hong Kong. All demonstrate compliance with
Quarantine and Inspection
countries are being encouraged at least the requirements of the
Service requires that all organic
to harmonise their respective standard. This is achieved by
certification organisations be
import controls for organic being certified by one of the
accredited for the purpose.
produce through the work AQIS-accredited organisations.
A national standard and
legislation underpin the of the FAOWHO Codex
Alimentarius Commission. AQIS accreditation
third-party accreditation
program and provide the The national standard sets
Any producer intending to out requirements for industry
mechanism for approved
export food or fibre that claims organisations seeking to
certification organisations to
to be organic or biodynamic become approved certifying
issue certificates to accompany
needs to know the following. organisations. This is achieved
organic produce to importing
countries. through a system of third-
The National Standard for
party accreditation. The basic
Organic and Biodynamic
The stimulus for introducing approach to the audit program
Produce
an export facilitation program has been developed by AQIS
in Australia was created by the The Federal Minister for in conjunction with the
increasing world demand for Primary Industries introduced industry. The Administrative
http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/126261/National_Standard_Edition_3_3_1st_July_2007.pdf
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
The following information comes from the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce (Edition 3.3,
1 July 2007. AQIS, Canberra.)
Standards
1. A developed organic or biodynamic farm must operate within a closed input system to the maximum extent
possible.
2. External farming inputs must be kept to a minimum and applied only on an as needs basis.
3. Inputs must not be used as a permanent measure to support a poorly designed or badly managed system.
Non-essential use of inputs is counter to organic and biodynamic farming principles. The approved
certifying organisation must give approval for their ongoing use.
4. The following lists are subject to review, and inclusion of a material does not imply that it is safe in all
circumstances. Any additions or changes to the lists will be made where it can be demonstrated that they
satisfy the requirements of this Standard.
5. Liquid preparations, including products of the sea must be used with care as some preparations can be easily
applied in concentrated forms and in high quantities.
6. The use of trace elements must be on the basis of a demonstrated deficiency.
7. Use of any input must be based on an assessment of need and with knowledge of the origin and/or analyses
of the material for contaminants.
8. The use of any materials/inputs will be recorded in the farm diary or logbook and repeated use must be
justifiable.
9. Federal, state/territory and local laws must be adhered to at all times
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
By Robyn Neeson
Publication no. 07/137. Project no. DAN-188A
This information is for producers wishing to convert to Major international food corporations are developing organic
organic production and for producers already involved in product lines.
organic production but keen to diversify their production.
It provides a framework for organic conversion and The Australian organic sector is worth between $250 - $400
diversification and suggests possible strategies and pathways million per annum at retail level and demand outstrips
for moving forward. supply. Domestic production is increasing at between 6
-15% per annum and consumption is growing at between
This valuable information will help make the transition to 25-40%the balance is imported. Australia is one of the
organic production or to diversified organic production a worlds leading grain exporters but organic grain is imported
smooth one. to meet the shortfall in production. Rising domestic
and overseas demand for Australian organic products is
Organic products are the fastest growing food sector prompting more conventional farmers and processors to
worldwide. Growth of new farms, products and consumers consider and adopt organic systems.
has been steadily increasing over the last 20 years. In the last
10 years the rate of growth has consistently increased in all of Our business is about new products and services and better
the advanced economies. ways of producing them. Most of the information we
produce can be downloaded for free from our website: www.
Market analysts forecast annual growth rates between 10% rirdc.gov.au.
and 30% around the world. The United States Department
of Agriculture expects the organic industry to be worth IRDC books can be purchased by phoning 02 6271 4100
R
US$100 billion by 2010 in America, Europe and Japan. or online at: www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop.
Contact RIRDC:
Level 2
15 National Circuit
Barton ACT 2600
PO Box 4776
Kingston ACT 2604