Questions and answers on EU rules on organic beekeeping
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EU answers questions received on implementation of rules for organic beekeeping
Commission notice: Questions and answers on the implementation of EU rules on organic beekeeping
Update
The European Commission has published a notice to assist national authorities and businesses to apply the EU rules on organic beekeeping. The notice answers questions received, mainly on implementation of the Organic Regulation (EU) 2018/848.
Impacted Products
Organic honey, organic beekeeping, beeswax
What is changing?
Answers are provided on:
- low environmental impact methods, location of apiaries, and husbandry practices
- possibilities for beeswax producers and processors to be certified as organic operators
- classification of beeswax
- natural products such as propolis, wax, and plant oils that may be used in hives.
Timeline
The notice was published on 25 April 2024.
What are the major implications for exporting countries?
The Commission notice is not a binding document, it is intended to clarify implementation of the Organic Regulation.
Recommended Actions
Organic beekeepers are recommended to read this notice to clarify any questions about Regulation 2018/848.
Background
The Organic Regulation (EU) 2018/848 lays down EU rules on organic production and labelling of organic products. Although it focuses on the EU organic sector, it has significant implications for non-EU countries.
Sources
Commission notice: Questions and answers on the implementation of EU rules on organic beekeeping