eOrganic author:
Jim Riddle, University of Minnesota
According to the National Organic Program (NOP) final rule (United States Department of Agriculture [USDA], 2000), physical alterations to livestock may be performed, if they are done to promote an animal's welfare and in a manner that minimizes pain and stress. Before performing physical alterations, the producer should check with the certifying agent to make sure that the practice is allowed, and describe the practice and reasons for its use in the operation's Organic System Plan.
The following physical alterations are typically allowed, provided that the conditions described above are met.
| Livestock Type | Physical Alterations Typically Allowed |
|---|---|
| Cattle |
|
| Sheep |
|
| Swine |
|
| Turkeys |
|
| Poultry (Laying Hens) |
|
References and Citations
- United States Department of Agriculture. 2000. National organic program: Final rule. Codified at 7 C.F.R., part 205. (Available online at: http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=3f34f4c22f9aa8e6d9864cc2683cea02&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title07/7cfr205_main_02.tpl) (verified 8 Dec 2015).
