Frequently asked questions about Skal organic certification

Below are the questions we see most often, with short answers. Each question links to the page that covers it in more detail. For questions about the law, see wetten.overheid.nl . For the European rules, the regulation 2018/848 is the source.

First, the most important question. Whether you need to be certified yourself depends on your role in the supply chain. Ask Skal (the Dutch organic control body) on 038-4268181.

Not sure whether your company needs to be certified? Call Skal on 038-4268181 or email info@skal.nl.

Selling and certification

Can I sell organic products without a certificate?

No. As a rule, anyone who sells products as organic must be certified. Skal supervises that obligation. Without a valid certificate, you may not use the word “organic” on your products or in your communication.

Take the fictional bakery De Korenaar as an example. It sells bread as “organic” without a certificate. That can lead to a disciplinary declaration from Skal.

Can I use the EU organic logo?

Only on products that meet the organic rules, and with the code number of your control body next to it. The logo may not be used on products in conversion. Read the rules at using the EU organic logo.

Inspection and sanctions

What happens after a failed inspection?

That depends on how serious the non-compliance is. Skal can suspend or withdraw your certificate. If the certificate is suspended, you may not use it, and you may not trade products with an organic designation. If the certificate is withdrawn, this applies from the date the certification ends. A suspension is not always the end. After a re-inspection, Skal can reinstate the certificate once the points have been resolved. Read more about the inspection in inspection and organic control.

How often does Skal visit?

That depends on your supervision arrangement. For agricultural holdings in 2026, the inspection frequency was once every 24 months under the low arrangement, once a year under the normal arrangement, and at least twice a year under the high arrangement. This is according to the Skal rate sheet .

Costs and validity

How long is a Skal certificate valid?

Skal sets that period and the conditions, so ask Skal on 038-4268181 or via info@skal.nl. What you always pay every year is the annual fee to Skal. See costs and timeline for the amounts.

How much does Skal cost?

In 2026, Skal charged a processing or trading company on the normal supervision arrangement €746 per year in annual fees, €463 in certification fees and €140 in supervision fees. The hourly rate for inspections was €136. These are indications based on the rate sheet. Small, fully organic businesses with a turnover below €80,000 can apply for an exemption from the three annual fees.

Conversion and groups

What is the difference between conversion and certification?

Conversion is the period in which your business or plot already follows the organic rules, but may not yet sell products as organic. Certification is the proof that Skal issues after an inspection. Only with that proof may you sell products as organic. During conversion you already fall under Skal’s supervision, but your harvest is only organic once the period has passed and the plot is listed on your certificate.

How long does conversion to organic take?

For arable farming and grassland, the harvest is organic 24 months after the start. For perennial crops, it is 36 months. The details are on conversion period to organic.

Can I be certified as part of a group?

Yes, small producers can join group certification. It works differently from an individual certificate. Read the explanation at group certification for organic farming with Skal.