Split Operation
An operation that produces both organic and non-organic versions of the same product. Requires strict separation procedures under NOP §205.272.
A split operation is one that produces or handles both organic and non-organic versions of the same agricultural product. Examples: a row-crop farm that grows organic corn on some fields and conventional corn on others; a livestock operation with both organic and conventional dairy cattle; a processor that runs an organic line and a conventional line.
What the regulation says
NOP §205.272 requires that the operation:
- Implement measures necessary to prevent the commingling of organic and non-organic products and protect organic products from contact with prohibited substances
- Document those measures in the Organic System Plan
- Maintain records that demonstrate the measures are working
It does not prohibit being a split operation. It does require that separation be documented, monitored, and verifiable.
How operations actually do it
Common separation strategies:
- Physical — separate fields, separate storage bins, separate processing lines, separate equipment
- Temporal — running the organic batch first (before any conventional residue can contaminate equipment), or only on dedicated days
- Procedural — equipment cleaning protocols between conventional and organic runs, with written verification logs
- Identity preservation — labels, lot numbers, and traceability records that follow each batch from input to sale
Why it matters
Commingling is one of the most serious noncompliances. A single batch of conventional product mixed with organic product can result in the entire lot losing its organic status — and depending on severity, the operation can lose certification.
For inspectors, the Organic System Plan's commingling-prevention section is a top focus area. The OSP must describe each separation measure, the frequency of cleaning, and the recordkeeping that proves it happened.
Cited regulations
Linked to the current eCFR text of 7 CFR Part 205. Reviewed before publication.
QO Editorial Team
Quick Organics
Quick Organics' editorial team writes about USDA organic certification, the Organic System Plan, and the daily realities of running a certified organic operation. Material is reviewed against the current eCFR text of 7 CFR Part 205 before publication.