An inspection is an on-site visit to verify that the
performance of an operation is in accordance with specific organic
standards. Inspection covers all stages in the production process,
including storage, processing and packing. Inspections are carried
out at least once a year and spot checks are also undertaken. The
flow of organic products must be traceable during the entire
production chain, meaning that the organic products must be labeled
"organic" at all production and handling levels to be able to
distinguish them from conventional products. The inspector checks
that organic products are identifiable and separated from
non-organic products. It is also required to establish detailed
record keeping showing origin and application of inputs as well as
the flow of quantities in order for the inspector to calculate
input-output balances. If the organic operator or unit to be
inspected is a grower group, the inspector checks the operation of
the internal control system of the grower group as well as a sample
of the growers. |