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Go Vita
Organic Awareness Month
Do You Know the Difference Between Organic and Certified Organic? If you're confused about the term organic, you're not alone – and Australian Organic Awareness Month this September is the perfect time to clear things up.
Organic is everywhere — but do you know what it actually means?
September is Australian Organic Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to take a closer look at one of the most confusing words on a product label: organic.
Today’s shoppers are more switched on than ever. We’re looking beyond the front of the packet and asking: Where did this come from? How was it produced? What’s actually been verified?
And when it comes to organic claims in Australia, that distinction matters.
Organic vs Certified Organic: What’s the Difference?
In Australia, the word “organic” on its own doesn’t necessarily mean a product has been independently certified to an organic standard. This can make it difficult for consumers to know exactly what they’re getting.
That’s where certification comes in.
A certified organic product has been independently assessed against a recognised organic standard, with certification covering much more than simply the ingredients.
It can include:
- Ingredient sourcing – where ingredients come from and how they are produced
- Farming practices – including soil, crop and livestock management
- Processing and manufacturing – what can and cannot be used during production
- Supply chain traceability – tracking products from their source through to the finished product
- Packaging, storage and handling – helping maintain organic integrity throughout the supply chain
In other words, certification provides transparency you can verify.
Look for the Logo, Not Just the Word
If choosing certified organic is important to you, don’t simply rely on the word organic appearing on the front of a package.
Look for a recognised certification logo, such as the Australian Organic Bud logo.
That logo signals that the product has gone through an independent certification process rather than relying solely on a marketing claim.
It’s essentially the difference between “trust us” and “we can show you.”
Why Are People Choosing Certified Organic?
For many Australians, organic is about more than what ends up on the plate. It’s about the bigger picture — how food and products are grown, made and brought to market.
Certified organic standards can support:
- More sustainable farming practices – with a focus on soil health, biodiversity and responsible land management.
- Reduced reliance on synthetic agricultural chemicals – certified organic production restricts the use of many synthetic pesticides and fertilisers.
- Higher animal welfare standards – organic livestock production includes requirements around access to pasture and natural behaviours.
- Greater transparency – independent certification and traceability provide greater confidence in how a product has been produced.
- A more conscious approach to consumption – choosing products based on how they are produced, rather than simply what their marketing promises.
Don’t just read the claim. Check the certification.
Whether you’re buying fresh food, pantry staples, skincare or household products, take a few extra seconds to turn the packet over and look for a recognised certification logo.
Because in a world of clever packaging, wellness buzzwords and increasingly sophisticated marketing, independent certification can help separate a genuine standard from a simple claim.
Support the Certified Organic Movement This September
Australian Organic Awareness Month (AOAM) is the nation’s biggest campaign celebrating the certified organic industry – from fresh produce and pantry staples to skincare and household items.
Led by Australian Organic Ltd, AOAM is all about helping Aussies make informed, conscious choices. It’s a reminder to always look for trusted certification logos when shopping – and to support businesses that are doing the right thing for people and the planet.
🛒 Visit your local Go Vita store this September to explore certified organic favourites
📲 Share your organic finds on social media using #WhyOrganic and tag @australianorganic
🔍 Learn more at www.whyorganic.com.au
Information presented is for information purposes only and is not intended to replace advice or treatment from qualified healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to treat or diagnose. Always consult your healthcare professional before taking nutritional or herbal supplements. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have any allergies or diagnosed conditions, or are taking prescription medications, always consult your healthcare professional before taking nutritional or herbal supplements.
About Margaret Leedham
Margaret Leedham brings a wealth of experience as a naturopath, educator, product developer
and writer to her role as the Brand Manager for NutriVital.
With over 24 years of experience, Margaret has also helped thousands of clients reach their health
and wellness goals through an evidence-based approach.
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