The U.S. Department of Agriculture late Wednesday issued new procedures requiring the National Organic Program to collaborate with accredited certifying agents in investigating cases while handling all enforcement actions.

The agency said the changes will make it more effective in enforcing national organic standards.

In the past, complaints of alleged standards violations were referred to accredited certifying agents for investigation and enforcement.

“The changes we are making will ensure that all parties are given due process while increasing the effectiveness of enforcing organic standards,” said Miles McEvoy, NOP deputy administrator. “At the same time, we want to take steps so that those who are abiding by the regulations and rightfully marketing their foods as organic are not put at a disadvantage by those falsely labeling their products."

The new complaint handling procedures were put into effect as part of a big effort by NOP to show its enforcement teeth and ensure greater compliance of the organic regulations.

Since January, NOP has closed 87 complaints and issued three civil penalties.

The NOP accredits about 100 certifying agents around the world to evaluate agricultural production and handling operations and determine their compliance with the national organic standards.

It is USDA’s policy to investigate all complaints that allege violations of rules and regulations, whether submitted by independent claimants, filed by an accredited certifying agent, or initiated by the NOP itself.

Any person may file a complaint if he or she believes a violation has occurred.