Organic Certification Process for Matcha Products

To obtain organic certification for matcha products (e.g., matcha powder), the entire process from cultivation to processing must comply with organic standards. Below is a general procedure based on China’s organic product certification (e.g., GB/T 19630), applicable to agricultural products:

1. Understand Certification Standards

• Familiarize yourself with relevant standards: China Organic Product Certification (overseen by CNCA), international standards (e.g., EU EC 834/2007 or US NOP for exports).
• Key requirements: Prohibition of chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and GMOs in tea gardens; no additives during processing; full traceability.

2. Select a Certification Body

• In China, choose a body accredited by the CNCA, such as:
  • China Quality Certification Center (CQC)
  • Nanjing Organic Food Certification Center (OFDC)
  • China Organic Food Certification Center (COFCC)
• Confirm the body covers matcha products and inquire about fees (typically several thousand to tens of thousands of RMB).

3. Prepare Application Materials

Gather and organize the following documents:

• Basic documents: Business license, production license, organization code.
• Production records:
  • Tea garden management: Land history (proof of no prohibited substances for ≥3 years), cultivation logs (fertilizer/pest control records).
  • Processing: Flowcharts for matcha grinding/packaging, ensuring no cross-contamination (e.g., dedicated equipment).
• Quality documents: Product test reports (e.g., pesticide residues, heavy metals from CMA-accredited labs).
• System documents: Organic management manual, including internal audits, traceability systems, and staff training records.
• Application form: Complete the official form provided by the certification body.

4. Submit Application & Initial Review

• Submit all materials to the certification body.
• The body conducts a document review (1–2 weeks) and schedules an on-site inspection if compliant.

5. On-Site Inspection

• Auditors dispatched by the body conduct field visits:
  • Inspect tea gardens: Soil, water sources, surrounding environment (no pollution sources).
  • Verify processing facilities: Equipment cleanliness, raw material storage, record authenticity.
  • Interview staff to confirm compliance.
• An inspection report is issued post-visit, noting corrective actions (if any).

6. Certification Decision & Issuance

• Upon approval, the body issues an organic certificate (valid for 1 year).
• Certified products may carry the organic label (e.g., China Organic Product Certification mark).

7. Maintenance & Renewal

• Annual renewal: On-site inspection required yearly for certificate renewal.
• Ongoing compliance: Regular self-checks; maintain complete records; respond to market audits.
• Change management: Report any process/raw material changes to the body in advance.

Key Notes

• Timeline: 3–6 months total; costs vary by scale (¥5,000–¥20,000).
• Common challenges: Tea garden conversion period (2–3 years of organic management); contamination control during processing.
• Resources: Consult local agricultural departments or professional advisors; refer to Organic Product Certification Management Measures.

Following these steps enables matcha products to achieve organic certification, enhancing market competitiveness.