Grass and seed mix percentage allowance for 2022.
With effect from January 1st 2022, the minimum required organic content in grass and forage seed mixes, which includes arable silage and wholecrop mixes, has been confirmed as 70%.
Anyone using a mix containing organic seed at 70% or higher will not need to notify SA Certification prior to sowing, however you will be required to submit details of the mix used at your annual inspection. As always, seed must not be treated with any prohibited seed treatments.
Producers who are using forage mixes of below 70% will need to request permission to use each non-organic variety from their Certification Officer prior to sowing. You will be required to submit a seed mix break down including the varieties and amounts, over the phone or in an email.
Producers looking to request permission will need to provide justification as to why they cannot use organic seed or a mix with 70% or more organic seed. Permission will only be granted when suitable organic seed or an appropriate 70% organic mix is not available.
If licensees wish to use a grass seed, arable silage and wholecrop mix with less than 70% organic seed*, they will need to request a derogation through their Certification Officer.
*Please note, a previous version of this article published in Certification News (24th February 2022) included a mistake. The original text stated: If licensees wish to use a grass seed, arable silage and wholecrop mix with less than 70% non-organic seed, they will need to request a derogation through their Certification Officer.
This has now been updated to read as above.