Frequently Asked Questions - Organic Dairy Production

• How long is the transition period to convert a conventional livestock production system to an organic livestock production system?
• Can artificial insemination (AI) be used in an organic breeding program?
• Can embryo transfer (ET) be used in an organic livestock breeding program?
• For meat to be certified as organic, is it necessary to feed the animal certified organic feed?
• Are conventional veterinary treatments allowed in organic livestock production?
• Is the use of Bovine Somato Tropin (BST) / Bovine Growth Hormone (BGH) permitted in organic livestock production?
• Can ivermectin products be used in de-worming cattle and sheep?
• Are prostaglandins permitted for the purpose of treating cystic ovaries or for inducing or synchronizing heat cycles in cows?
• Are vaccinations permitted?
• Can antibiotics be used in organic livestock production?
• Is farm animal welfare addressed in organic livestock systems?
• Are de-horning, castration and other similar surgical techniques permitted in organic livestock production?
• Are there standards established for humane transport and slaughter of food animals?