USDA approval of organic item

We have submitted artwork to USDA for approval of a new meat item. This item is also organic. Does anyone know if we need to gain organic certification prior to USDA approval or can it be done after USDA approves the item. HELP!

If you intend to claim 'organic' on the product label, you must submit proof supporting this claim with the label submittal. Start at
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/regulations_&_policies/claims_guidance/index.asp

Depending on what organic cert you are going for (100%, Organic, Made with or Less than 70%) you will need to have organic certs for all organic ingredients you add to the meat, except water and salt. Once this item becomes cert organic this will need to go on your company Organic certificate as well, so yes you do need to be cert Organic. This is how they know you use the correct cleaning chemicals, and produce before other non organic items. The deal is without the organic cert you can't sell this item as organic. Good luck.