Certification News



New inspection checklist brings inspections and audit reports into alignment with the Demeter USA Standards.



In 2022, Demeter began using the ECERT database system to support our certification workflow and file management processes. ECERT is a shared platform developed to reduce costs and improve collaboration among Demeter certification offices worldwide. Currently, Austria, France, The Netherlands, Spain, ICO, India, Italy, and Demeter USA all utilize this platform, which is managed by BFDI (Biodynamic Federation Demeter International).

Because the platform is shared internationally, all participating organizations have been using the International Checklist with BFDI standard references. This year, however, Demeter USA has taken an important step forward by creating our own customized checklist aligned specifically with Demeter USA standard references, including the addition of sections that apply to recent updates in the Farm Standard.

This new checklist will serve both as the initial review tool for onboarding new clients and as the primary inspection checklist moving forward. One of the most exciting improvements is the new rollover functionality, which allows inspectors to carry forward checklist responses from the previous year. While the first year will require a complete setup, future inspections will be significantly more efficient and streamlined, saving substantial time for both inspectors and clients.

Many of you may have noticed duplicate questions or sections that did not always seem applicable in previous versions of the checklist. We are pleased to share that these issues have been thoroughly reviewed, corrected, and updated to create a more user-friendly and practical inspection experience.

Most importantly, after this initial transition year, the paperwork portion of inspections will become much shorter and more efficient for everyone involved.

Questions about Certification?

Please contact Sarah Rhynalds  -- [email protected] ~  541-929-7148