About OMRI

You’ve seen the labels when shopping, and may be wondering “What does OMRI Listed mean?” The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is an international nonprofit founded in 1997. “OMRI’s mission is to support the growth and trust of the global organic community through expert, independent and transparent verification of input materials, and through education and technical assistance” (omri.org, history). Additionally, “OMRI reviews input products for use in organic crop, livestock and processing production” (omri.com FAQ). The organization checks for prohibited ingredients and evaluates the manufacturing process to ensure products are compliant and meet organic standards. This is done in accordance with US, Canadian, and Mexican organic standards.

Notably,  because a product is OMRI listed does not mean it is “certified organic.”  Only foods, fibers, and feeds are eligible to be called “certified organic” and carry the USDA’s seal for organic products.  Input products that are used to grow, process, or produce organic foods, feed, or fibers (including fertilizers and other materials) are typically NOT eligible to carry the USDA seal or use the term “certified organic”. 

Many farms/producers want to use OMRI listed products to grow crops, because it assures them the product has passed OMRI expert review for use as an input for organic production and improves the efficacy and speed of their organic certification. Therefore, there are thousands of products listed for organic use, that can be found via OMRI’s online search tool. 

OMRI Review Process

1. The Review Program Specialist pre-reviews application for completion.
2. Applicant is contacted if clarification is needed.
3. OMRI Product Review Coordinator reviews the product for compliance with the specified organic standard.
4. Applicant is contacted if additional application clarification is needed.
5. Reviewer completes a summary and a recommendation for the application.
6. The OMRI Review Panel votes on a product’s status or requests more info if necessary.
7. Applicant is notified of the decision.
8. If approved, OMRI issues a certificate and approval letter. Products that are compliant are given a status and added to the OMRI Products List(s).

Renewal Process

Furthermore, to maintain the integrity of OMRI listed products, companies must renew their product annually to ensure they meet OMRI’s standards. Accordingly, every 3-5 years, all OMRI Listed products undergo a full compliance review. Lastly, companies must notify OMRI prior to the implementation of changes within their listed products.

Why PJC Chose OMRI

PJC began in 2002 as a full service landscape provider specializing in All-Natural Organic Fertilization services.  However, we experienced first-hand the challenges of sourcing a true All-Natural Organic Fertilizer and the difficulty in sorting through what is now called “green washing” when it came to fertilizer choices.  In 2005, we came across Renaissance Fertilizers and their OMRI listed product line.  Long story short: we started using their products, had great results, and in 2007 purchased the manufacturing rights.  Then, in 2018 we rebranded to PJC ProHealthy Turf.  So, the 6-0-6 and 8-0-6 products PJC manufactures have been OMRI listed for a long time!

Product integrity is important at PJC and, for those that are like minded, the OMRI seal is a way to reflect that.  Importantly, it is a way to set us above the “green washing” that is even more prevalent today and makes your buying choice easy.

PJC’s OMRI Listed Products

You’ll find two OMRI listed PJC products. Both are listed under the class CF “Crop Fertilizers and Soil Amendments”, with the status “Allowed under the U.S. NOP organic standards”.

PJC ProHealthy Turf 6-0-6:

OMRI listed since June 2019.

Our most popular turf fertilizer! Plant based organic nitrogen and sulfate of potash. An excellent all-purpose all-natural organic fertilizer that can be used throughout the growing season. Request Pricing →

PJC ProHealthy Turf 8-0-6:

OMRI listed since June 2019.

A higher nitrogen all-natural fertilizer for those looking for a little more “N”. Plant and animal meal organic nitrogen with sulfate of potash. Request Pricing →

In conclusion, being OMRI listed is a BIG DEAL! The review process is extensive, the renewal process is critical, and the standards are high. When you purchase an OMRI Listed product, the hard work of discerning product integrity has been done for you. Therefore, you can find confidence in the business you support through your purposeful purchasing.