Product Integrity During Commercial Seed Production
The OECD Schemes help ensure the varietal identity and quality of seed by setting appropriate requirements and controls throughout production, processing and labeling. Certified seeds are produced and officially controlled according to common harmonized procedures. OECD certification provides official worldwide recognition of "quality-guaranteed" seed, facilitating international trade and contributing to removal of technical trade barriers.
Federal Seed Act. The U.S. Federal Seed Act is essentially a truth-in-labeling law covering the sale of seed in interstate commerce and seed imported into the United States. The law requires seed to be labeled with information allowing buyers to make informed choices. It also helps promote consistency among state laws and fair competition within the seed trade.
Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies. AOSCA is dedicated to assisting companies in the production, identification, distribution and promotion of certified classes of seed. Established in 1919 in the United States, the organization has grown to include members from around the world.
AOSCA establishes minimum standards for quality and identity. Its goal is to standardize certification regulations and procedures internationally so companies compete under one set of standards. The association cooperates with the OECD and other international organizations to develop standards, regulations, procedures and policies to expedite movement of seed and encourage international commerce in improved varieties.
