This Law establishes the standards for the production, processing, and distribution of organic products. It defines organic production as a sustainable management system based on the interaction of the best environmental practices, a high level of biodiversity, and the preservation of natural resources. It applies to all stages of the supply chain, from primary agricultural production to the final point of sale to the consumer.
The Law focuses heavily on soil-bound plant production, requiring the maintenance of soil fertility through natural methods. It mandates multiannual crop rotation, including the use of legumes and green manure, while strictly limiting the use of external inputs. It prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), ionizing radiation, and synthetic chemical substances, ensuring that plant health is maintained through preventive and biological measures.
Livestock management under this Law is governed by high animal welfare standards and the fulfillment of species-specific behavioral needs. Animals must have regular access to open-air areas and pastures, and their nutrition must consist of 100% organic feed. The use of hormones, steroids, and synthetic growth stimulants is forbidden. Veterinary treatments are restricted to therapeutic necessity, and disease prevention is to be obtained through breed selection and appropriate living conditions.
With regard to food processing and preparation, the Law mandates the use of biological, mechanical, and physical methods that preserve the vital qualities of the product. The use of additives and processing aids is highly restricted to a specific list of authorized substances. All subjects involved in processing must implement precautionary measures to avoid contamination and ensure that organic products remain physically separated from non-organic goods during storage and transport.
The Law establishes a rigorous system of official controls and certification to maintain market integrity. Every producer, processor, and distributor must be registered and subject to regular inspections by authorized control bodies. This oversight ensures full traceability of every organic product, allowing for the verification of its origin and compliance with the established standards. Detailed record-keeping is required for all substances used, including seeds, fertilizers, and veterinary medicines.
Finally, the Law provides for a transition period, known as conversion, which land and animals must undergo before their products can be marketed as organic. This period ensures that the production environment is free from prohibited residues and that the management system has fully stabilized under organic rules.