The European Union organic logo serves as a powerful visual cue for consumers across the EU, instantly identifying products that have been produced according to strict organic standards. This unified logo simplifies the process for consumers to choose organic options and simultaneously aids farmers in marketing their certified organic products throughout the European marketplace.
This prestigious logo is exclusively reserved for products that have undergone rigorous certification by an authorized control agency or body. This certification assures consumers that these products adhere to stringent regulations encompassing production, processing, transportation, and storage methods. To bear the EU organic logo, products must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, with the remaining 5% also subject to strict criteria. Critically, the same ingredient cannot be present in both organic and non-organic forms within a single product.
Complementing the EU organic logo, mandatory labeling includes a code number for the certifying control body and clear indication of the origin of the agricultural raw materials used in the product.
The official EU organic logo.
Mandatory and Optional Uses of the Organic Logo
For most pre-packaged organic food items produced and sold within the EU, displaying the organic logo is not just recommended—it’s a legal requirement. This mandatory usage is designed to eliminate consumer confusion, build and maintain confidence in organic foods, and empower authorities in their inspection and regulatory duties.
Beyond the mandatory applications, the logo can also be used on a voluntary basis in several scenarios:
- Imported Organic Products: Products imported from outside the EU that fully comply with EU regulations governing organic imports are eligible to display the logo.
- Non-Pre-packaged Organic Goods: Retailers selling organic products that are not pre-packaged can choose to use the logo to highlight their organic offerings.
- EU Organic Products in Third Countries: Producers exporting EU-certified organic products to markets outside the EU may use the logo to denote their organic status.
- Educational Campaigns: The logo can be incorporated into public awareness campaigns focused on educating consumers about organic schemes, provided its use is not misleading or implies organic certification for non-organic products.
However, there are specific instances where the EU organic logo is prohibited:
- Products with Less Than 95% Organic Content: Items containing under 95% organic ingredients are not eligible for the logo.
- Mass Catering: Establishments like restaurants and hospitals are outside the scope of logo usage.
- Non-Organic Rule Products: Products such as cosmetics or those derived from hunting and fishing, which are not covered by organic regulations, cannot use the logo.
- Products in Conversion: During the period of conversion to organic farming, when non-organic substances might still be present, products cannot be labeled with the organic logo.
Guidelines for Displaying the Logo
Strict rules govern the visual presentation of the EU organic logo to ensure consistency and clarity:
- Size Specifications: The standard logo dimensions are a minimum of 13.5mm in width and 9mm in height. For exceptionally small packaging, reduced dimensions of 9mm by 6mm are permitted.
- Color Scheme: The logo must adhere to the standard green and white color palette. The only allowed color modification is for single-color printing.
- Stylization Restrictions: Stylizing the logo, such as using transparent backgrounds or adding 3D effects, is not permitted.
For comprehensive details on the correct display and usage of the EU organic logo, refer to the official user manual.
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic farming logo user manual
English
(1.13 MB – PDF)
Accessing and Downloading the Logo
For various applications, the EU organic logo is available for download in multiple digital formats.
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic logo (JPEG)
English
(123.31 KB – ZIP)
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic logo (PDF)
English
(88.82 KB – PDF)
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic logo (GIF)
English
(35.61 KB – ZIP)
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic logo (EPS)
English
(556.67 KB – ZIP)
- 20 NOVEMBER 2018
EU organic logo (AI)
English
(17.3 MB – ZIP)
