Frequently Asked Questions
We answer the most commonly asked questions about organics in South Africa. We also have dedicated sections for farmer support, research data and consumer information.
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Organic Agricultural Enquiries
What is organic agriculture?
Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. It combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment, promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all.
What is agroecology?
Agroecology is an integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of food and agricultural systems. It seeks to optimise the interactions between plants, animals, humans and the environment while taking into consideration the social aspects that need to be addressed for a sustainable and fair food system. Agroecology is a science, a practice and a social movement.
What is regenerative agriculture?
Regenerative Agriculture is a conservation and rehabilitation approach to food and farming systems. It focuses on topsoil regeneration, increasing biodiversity, improving the water cycle, enhancing ecosystem services, supporting bio-sequestration, increasing resilience to climate change, and strengthening the health and vitality of farm soil. It utilises a variety of sustainable agriculture techniques in combination.
What is organic in conversion or how do I convert to organic farming?
The establishment of a diverse and balanced farming system with a natural ability to regulate itself usually takes several years and involves mistakes and learning. Diversifying the farming system is a cornerstone to conversion and would include recycling valuable farm by-products. Farm animals are introduced into the system for both products and manures. Conversion will include the growing of cover crops and green manures. The SAOSO standards are used as a motivator and guide to production principles
What is conservation agriculture?
Conservation agriculture is a farming system that can prevent losses of arable land while regenerating degraded lands. It promotes maintenance of a permanent soil cover, minimum soil disturbance, and diversification of plant species.
What inputs are allowed in organic agriculture?
Please refer to the Section C – appendices of the SAOSO standard which details the criteria for the evaluation of inputs, additives and processing aids for organic production and processing.
Are genetically-modified organisms (GMO’s) allowed in organic agriculture?
Organic farmers and producers may not use ingredients, additives or processing aids derived from GMO’s. According to the SAOSO standard, inputs, processing aids and ingredients shall be traced back one step in the biological chain to the direct source organism from which they are produced to verify that they are not derived from GMOs.
General Enquiries about SAOSO
How can I support SAOSO?
You can support our work by becoming a member or by making a donation.
How can I make a donation to SAOSO?
Go to our Donations page and easily gift a one-time or recurring amount through Payfast.
How do I become a member of SAOSO and what are the benefits?
Please go to our Membership page and join us to help drive the organic agriculture movement forward, creating a sustainable, healthier future for all. Benefits include our monthly email newsletter with updates on everything organic, voting rights at the annual SAOSO AGM giving you real power to transform our food system, access to our Organic Marketplace that links you to trade opportunities, and access to our Knowledge Products and research.
How do organisations work with SAOSO to increase the uptake of organic agroecological principles?
Our members and partners are actively transforming food and farming in South Africa. We work on the ground with farmers and PGS, drive research and training, inform media and consumers, and advocate for policy change. Together we can protect and regenerate soil, water, biodiversity and ecosystems, creating a landscape where wildlife, animals, people and planet thrive.
Organic Certification
How do I access the SAOSO organic standards?
How do I get organically certified?
Once your farm is ready to be third party certified, contact Hennie Louw at Control Union: hlouw@controlunion.com. If you are interested in second party organic certification for smallholder farmers, then please look at local PGS systems.
Can SAOSO certify me?
SAOSO is the custodian of the SAOSO Standard for Production and Processing and not an accredited certifying body.
What are the benefits of organic certification?
There are many. An organically certified farm improves water quality, increases biodiversity and contributes to soil health. It provides the consumer with chemical pesticide free produce that is better for their health. Being certified by a third party or by a PGS means that the retailer and customer can trust that what they are buying is genuinely organic.
Can I sell organic produce without certification?
Yes, but it cannot be labelled as organic. In South Africa, according to the Consumer Protection Act, farmers or producers can be held liable if they claim that their produce is organic but it is in fact not.
What is PGS certification?
PGS certification is second party assurance given by groups of farmers, consumers and retailers that the produce and processed are organic.
Organic Policy & Regulations
Does the South African government have regulations for organic agriculture?
Unfortunately, the Draft National Policy on Organic Agriculture (10th draft, circa 20??), has not been passed and neither has the Agroecology Strategy.
How can I be a part of advocating for policy change towards a more sustainable food system?
By becoming a member of SAOSO you can play an active part in transforming food and farming in South Africa towards a sustainable and healthier future.
Organic LabelLing
Can I trust a product that is certified organic?
You can trust the SAOSO and PGS organic certification seals that you see on our certification landscape page. If you suspect misrepresentation or if you want verification that a product is in fact organic, then please contact SAOSO via info@saoso.org
Organic Markets
Is my organic certification recognised overseas for export?
When exporting, products are certified to the standard of the country being exported to. However, through the IFOAM Family of Standards, there is a degree of equivalence to standards in that family for our local market.