What we do

Any product sold as ‘organic’ must comply with strict rules set at UK, European and international levels. These rules, known as standards, assure consumers they are buying genuinely organic products that can be fully traceable back to source.

Through our not-for-profit business Soil Association Certification, we inspect and award organic certification to farms and businesses that meet our organic standards.

Our standards not only meet the UK government's minimum requirements but exceed them – especially in areas concerning the environment and animal welfare. Organic standards cover all aspects of food production and packaging, animal welfare, wildlife conservation, and ban unnecessary and harmful food additives in organic processed foods.

We have also developed standards for areas not covered by government or EU regulations. These include conservation, fish farming, textiles and health and beauty care products.

We inspect each of our licensed farms and businesses to our standards at least once a year. We also carry out a number of random spot inspections, which can be unannounced. At other times we may carry out an inspection in response to a complaint or concern raised.

With over 36 years' experience, we have worked with more businesses than any other certification body - certifying over 4,500 farms and businesses all over the world. Our experience, knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the organic sector, means the Soil Association symbol is the most recognised organic mark in the UK today.