Organic Farming Certification

Farms, food processors, and traders that want to label and sell products as organic (bio/öko) must be certified by an approved control body (Kontrollstelle) under the EU Organic Regulation 2018/848. Without certification, using terms like "bio" or "öko" on products is illegal.

You choose one of the state-approved control bodies (identified by their DE-ÖKO code number) and sign a control contract. The control body conducts an initial inspection and then annual inspections covering your production methods, inputs, documentation, and labeling. After passing the initial inspection and a conversion period (typically two years for crops), you receive organic certification and may use the EU organic logo. Certification costs vary by control body and farm size.

Requirements

  • Compliance with EU Organic Regulation (no synthetic pesticides or mineral fertilizers)
  • Conversion period: 2-3 years (depending on crop)
  • Documentation of all inputs and products
  • Contract with approved control body

Procedure

  • Registration with approved control body and competent state authority
  • Initial inspection of the farm
  • Annual control visits
  • Costs: approx. €300-1,500 per year (depending on farm size)