SCS de México Gains Authorization to Certify Organic Production

SCS de México, a subsidiary of Scientific Certification Systems and a long-established third-party certifier for food and agriculture, has been approved by Mexico’s National Service for Agro-Alimentary Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA) to certify organic production under the country’s Organic Products Law (Ley de Productos Orgánicos, LPO). 

Mexico currently has more than 46,000 organic producers—mostly small and medium-sized operations—cultivating over 331,000 hectares of certified crops. The sector generates an estimated US$400 million per year, with nearly 80% of production destined for export to the United States, Canada and the European Union. As the market expands, LPO certification has become increasingly relevant for companies seeking to validate organic integrity and meet regulatory requirements for trade.

“Obtaining approval to offer LPO Organic certification marks an important milestone for SCS de México,” said Oscar Morales, general manager, SCS de México. “We are excited to support Mexican growers, processors and traders in meeting the rigorous standards of the Organic Products Law while helping them access both domestic and international markets for organic products.”

Under the new authorization, SCS de México may certify organic operations in three primary categories: vegetable production; processing of agricultural and livestock products; and commercialization of organic goods. Certification confirms that operators comply with Mexico’s Organic Products Law, its regulations and the Organic Production Guidelines Agreement, which define requirements for seed selection, soil management, plant nutrition, pest control, harvesting, processing and marketing.

LPO certification is mandatory for any entity selling or importing organic products in Mexico, including growers exporting to Mexico or marketing crops domestically; processors using organic ingredients; traders and importers managing organic supply chains; private-label brands; and distributors, repackers and handlers involved in product movement. Approval allows certified operators to use the official Mexican Organic seal and ensures that only substances permitted under LPO standards were used during production—an assurance that is increasingly important for international buyers and regulators.

The certification framework supports broader national goals to strengthen oversight of organic production and ensure traceability throughout the supply chain. It also reinforces market access for Mexican producers, who rely heavily on export markets and must demonstrate compliance with multiple organic regulations worldwide.

SCS de México said companies can streamline compliance by pairing LPO certification with other verification programs it offers, including USDA National Organic Program certification, Non-GMO Project Verification, Sustainably Grown®, Fair Trade USA and SCS Gluten-Free certification. The organization noted that its international experience allows it to support producers seeking to align organic practices with sustainability and market-driven requirements.