Enzymology Research Center (ERC) has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $5,500 for alleged violations of federal organic regulations, according to the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP).
Miltona, Minn.-based ERC was certified by Oregon Tilth in 2012 for blue green algae capsules (Algae Infused), Fiber Blend (Regular Girl Bulk Powder), and Herbal Supplement (Chlora-xym).
The NOP did not state the circumstances that led to the settlement agreement with ERC. However, according to the NOP, ERC has agreed, per the settlement, to:
- produce, label, represent, sell or ship products as organic only after the products have been approved for organic certification
- submit all required documentation for a product’s organic certification before it is produced, marketed, sold or shipped as organic
- within 30 days, submit procedures documenting how ERC will ensure a timely submission process
- undergo one unannounced inspection within the next year
The NOP said it often enters into settlement agreements with companies concerning noncompliance with organic regulations.
“Typically, these settlements are executed as alternatives to administrative proceedings that may result in suspension or revocation of certification or accreditation,” the agency said.
A request for more information from ERC was not immediately returned.
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