Which of the following is NOT a requirement for organic growers before the first sale of food?

To determine which option does not represent a requirement for organic growers before their first sale of food, it’s essential to understand the established protocols for organic certification.

Organic growers must complete registration to be recognized as certified organic producers. This process typically involves submitting an application detailing their agricultural practices, which is a fundamental step in gaining the legal ability to market products as organic.

Meeting organic standards is undoubtedly a requirement as these standards govern how crops are produced, handled, and processed. This includes specific practices related to soil health, pest control, and the use of synthetic substances. Compliance with these standards is critical to achieving organic certification.

In most cases, obtaining a Certified Organic Processor (CPC) designation relates to the activities involved in processing organic products and is not universally required for all growers, especially those engaged strictly in the production of raw agricultural products. Therefore, while maintaining thorough records is good practice and may be beneficial for transparent operation and traceability, it is not typically mandated as a pre-sale condition.

Thus, of the options presented, maintaining buyer records does not constitute a formal requirement before the first sale of organic food, making it the correct choice for what is NOT a requirement.