Conversion
5.3 Conversion
For additional rules specific to the USA market please refer to point 1.1 Supplementary requirements for Organic Operators producing for the USA market.
5.3.1 Conversion of land associated with organic livestock production
Where a production unit is converted, the whole area of the unit used for animal feed must comply with the rules on organic farming, using the conversion periods established relating to plants and plant products (Section 4.1).
The conversion period may be reduced to one year for pasturages, open air runs and exercise areas used by non-herbivore species.
5.3.2 Conversion of livestock and livestock products
Animals on a farm that is converting to organic production may undergo a one-time minimum conversion period according to the following schedule.
- Twelve months in the case of equidae and bovines (including bubalus and bison species) and small ruminants and pigs for meat production.
- Six months in the case of animals for milk production
- Six weeks in the case of poultry for egg production.
For additional rules specific to the USA market please refer to point 2.1 Supplementary requirements for Organic Operators producing for the USA market.
5.3.3 Simultaneous conversion
By way of exception from: paragraphs 5.3.2, 5.5.2 and 5.5.4.
If there is simultaneous conversion of the complete production unit, including livestock, pasturage and/or any land used for animal feed, the total combined conversion period for both livestock, pasturage and/or any land used for animal feed shall be reduced to 24 months subject to the following conditions:
- The exception applies only to the existing animals and their offspring and at the same time also to the land used for animal feed/pasturage before starting the conversion.
- The animals are mainly fed with products from the production unit.
