Proposal for a COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) supplementing Regulation (CEE) No 2092/91 on organic production of agricultural products and indications referring thereto on agricultural products and foodstuffs to include livestock production
COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES Brussels, 26. 07. 1996 COM(96)366 final 96/0205 (CNS) Proposal for a COUNCIL REQULATON (PC) supplementing Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 on organic production of agricultural products and indications referring thereto on agricultural products and foodstuffs to include livestock production (presented by the Commission) <«g !« IK?1 H IS"- Summary Proposal for a Council Regulation (EC) No. supplementing Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 on organic production of agricultural products and indications referring thereto on agricultural products and foodstuffs to include livestock production 1. General principles laying down a framework for organic livestock farming to achieve balanced agricultural production which takes account of the environment by means of the following: recognition of the interdependence between stockfarming and the land with a view to ensuring responsible management of effluents and favouring feed produced on the holding; consideration for the welfare of the livestock, in particular by eschewing systematic mutilation and eliminating stress during transport and slaughter; choice of breeds which are adapted to local conditions, search for biological diversity and use of natural service; obligation to manage the whole livestock production unit in accordance with the principles of organic production. 1. Specific rules for the various type of stockfarming, covering the origin of the animals, the rules for conversion from conventional to organic stockfarming, animal feed, animal-health treatment and care, animal housing and living environment. 3. Special provisions specific to livestock production as regards inspection (livestock records). & EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM 1. Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91, as amended by Regulation (EC) No 2083/92 and by Regulation (EC) No 1935/95, lays down harmonized rules on the labelling, production and inspection of agricultural products bearing or intended to bear indications referring to organic production methods. Hitherto that Regulation only covered crop products. Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 provides that the Commission is to put forward a proposal as quickly as possible on the principles for and inspection measures covering organic production of livestock, unprocessed livestock products and products intended for human consumption containing ingredients of animal origin. Originally set for 1 July 1992, the date laid down for the presentation of the proposal was put back to 1 July 1995 by Regulation (EC) No 1935/95. It has also become necessary to lay down harmonized rules quickly to cover livestock production, applicable throughout the European Union. Organic production is currently expanding considerably in response to growing interest in such products among consumers. The rise in demand for organic products concerns livestock products as well as crop products and the lack of Community provisions covering the former means that products complying with international standards or national specifications differing significantly in content and requirements are being placed on the market. Furthermore, the various types of stockfarming allow better balance to be achieved in the management of holdings practising organic farming, so ensuring complementarity between crop and livestock production from both the economic and the environmental viewpoints. Livestock effluents can be turned to account for crop production by providing valuable fertilizers and organic matter. Such complementarity has a beneficial impact on the environment and contributes towards the development of sustainable agriculture. 2> specific provisions as are indispensable, like conditions on inspection adapted to stockfarms. The proposal lays down the basic principles governing organic livestock production, such as the link with the land, and the specific rules on the main factors governing animal husbandry, namely the origin of the livestock, animal feed, disease prevention and veterinary care, and the conditions under which livestock is housed and kept. The proposal does not amend the general provisions of Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 on labelling, the general organization of the inspection system and imports from third countries normally applying to livestock production. 3. The action contemplated falls within the exclusive competence of the Community. In accordance with Article 43 of the Treaty, Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 already lays down production standards, conditions governing labelling and the inspection system for products placed on the market under labels referring to organic production methods. This proposal supplements Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 as regards livestock products. The matter accordingly falls within the exclusive competence of the Community. 4. A regulation applying across the board is needed for this sector of production. The main objectives of Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 are: to lay down fair conditions of competition between producers of organic farm produce in the European Union; to ensure free movement of organic products in the European Union; to enhance consumer confidence in such products; to encourage a type of agriculture which is in line with consumer demand and which also has a beneficial impact on the environment. The achievement of those objectives is also sought with regard to livestock products. To attain them, a harmonized framework of production standards applying uniformly throughout the Member States must be brought into force, while allowing operators some flexibility in implementation to take account of specific local conditions as regards livestock, climate and agronomic characteristics. The application of those provisions and the monitoring thereof are the responsibility of the Member States. 5. The proposal will also provide a harmonized reference framework for the measures which the European Union is currently undertaking in this area to back up the reform of the CAP and EU rural development measures. Some programmes decided by the Commission under Regulation (EEC) No 2078/92 and some of the programmes for areas covered by Objectives 1 and 5(b) under the reform of the Structural Funds relate to organic farming and more specifically to livestock products. The framework of rules contained in this proposal is necessary in that connection. 6. The proposal is not likely to have any significant impact on trade or on SMEs. 5" Proposal for a COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) supplementing Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 on organic production of agricultural products and indications referring thereto on agricultural products and foodstuffs to include livestock production T^E COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 43 thereof, Having regard to the proposal from the Commission1, Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament2, Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee3, Whereas Council Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 of 24 June 19914 provides that the Commission is to put forward proposals before 30 June 1995 concerning the principles for and specific inspection measures covering organic production of livestock, unprocessed livestock products and products intended for human consumption containing ingredients of animal origin; , , , p. ,p. , p. OJ No C OJ No C OJNoC, OJ No L 198, 22. 7. 1991, p. 1. Last amended by Regulation (EC) No (Of No L , p. ). , <£ Whereas demand for organic agricultural products is rising and whereas consumers are increasingly attracted by such products, as measured in terms of both quantity and interest for the widest possible range of products; Whereas livestock production allows that range of products to be extended while permitting the development on agricultural holdings practising organic farming of complementary activities accounting for a major share of income; Whereas, moreover, livestock production is fundamental to the organization of agricultural production on organic farms in so far as it provides the necessary organic matter and nutrients for cultivated land and accordingly contributes towards soil improvement and the development of sustainable agriculture; Whereas, in order to avoid environmental pollution, in particular of natural resources like the soil and water, organic livestock production must be organized along well thought-out lines so that, by virtue of the necessarily close relationship between such production and the land, certain objectives can be achieved, namely reduced pollution, suitable multiannual rotation systems and the feeding of livestock using crop products produced on the holding in accordance with the rules of organic farming; Whereas, in order to prevent pollution of water by nitrates, organic livestock holdings must have storage capacity available for livestock effluents and manure spreading plans to ensure that the quality of the environment is maintained; Whereas the widest possible biological diversity must be maintained and the choice of breeds must take account of their capacity to adapt to local conditions; Whereas the livestock must be fed essentially on fodder and feedingstuffs produced in accordance with the rules of organic farming; Whereas, under the present circumstances, stockfarmers may experience difficulty in securing supplies of feedingstuffs for organically reared livestock and therefore * authorization should provisionally be granted for a limited number of conventional feeds to be used in small quantities; Whereas, in addition, in order to provide for the basic nutritional requirements of the livestock, certain feed supplements may need to be used and whereas the type and conditions of utilization of vitamins and certain minerals should be specified; Whereas animal-health management must mainly involve prevention, through a suitable choice of naturally disease-resistant breeds, a balanced high-quality diet and a favourable environment, in particular as regards livestock housing and animal husbandry; Whereas treatment to combat disease, infections and parasites must be based on the application of alternative medicine, such as phytotherapy and homeopathy, the systematic administration of synthetic drugs being eschewed; Whereas, however, for the present certain allopathic treatments are necessary to preserve the life of livestock or limit suffering and whereas the administration of such products under veterinary control and on a limited scale should be authorized, additional precautions being taken as regards the sale of the livestock products after such treatment; Whereas in most cases the livestock should have access to free-range exercise areas or grazing, weather conditions permitting, and whereas such free-range areas must be organized under a system of rotation providing for periods when they are left free of livestock to regenerate and for health purposes; Whereas housing for all species of livestock must satisfy the needs of the animals concerned as regards ventilation, light, space and comfort and sufficient area must accordingly be provided to permit ample freedom of movement for each animal; whereas the materials used for building construction and protection should not be toxic for livestock or damaging to the environment; Whereas the systematic mutilation of livestock and the use of certain substances to stimulate growth or modify their breeding cycles are contrary to the principles of organic s farming and are likely to affect the equilibrium and health of the animals as well as their behaviour; Whereas any unnecessary suffering and stress to livestock must be avoided during handling, transport and slaughter; Whereas the special features of beekeeping call for specific provisions, in particular to ensure that sources of pollen and nectar of adequate quality are available in sufficient quantities; Whereas all operators marketing products of organically reared livestock must be subject to regular inspections which take account of the production conditions peculiar to the livestock concerned; whereas a register must be kept accessible at the holding and updated with details of livestock arriving at and leaving the holding and any treatment administered; Whereas the provisions on livestock production must take account of experience gained in the implementation of the rules on crop production, HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION: Article 1 Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91 is hereby amended as follows: 1. Article 1(1) is replaced by the following: "1. This Regulation shall apply to the following products, where such products bear, or are intended to bear, indications referring to organic production methods: (a) unprocessed agricultural crop and livestock products; * (b) products intended for human consumption prepared from one or more ingredients of plant origin and/or one or more ingredients of animal origin. " 2. Article 1(2) is deleted. 3. Article 5(5)(b) is replaced by the following: "(b) in the case of crop production, a conversion period prior to harvest of at least 12 months has elapsed; in the case of livestock production, a period of at least half of the various conversion periods defined in Part II of Annex I. " 4. In Article 6(l)(b), the words "animal feedingstuffs, feed supplements or disinfectants" are inserted between "soil conditioners" and "or for another purpose where such purpose is specified in Annex II in regard to certain substances". 5. In Article 7(l)(a), the words "or for pest control in and disinfecting of livestock buildings" are added to the introductory phrase "if they are used for the purpose of plant pest or disease control". In the second indent, the words "the crop or crop products" are replaced by "the crop, crop products or livestock". 6. The following paragraph is inserted after Article 7(1): " la. For animal feed, additional products may be included on the list of animal feedingstuffs not produced in accordance with the rules on organic production and on the list of feed supplements in Annex II provided the following conditions are satisfied: JJQ (a) where conventional animal feeds arc concerned, they must be essential in ensuring a balanced diet for the livestock in line with its nutritional requirements and they must be unavailable in sufficient quantity in the Community in a form complying with the rules set out in Article 6; (b) where feed supplements are concerned: they must be essential for the specific nutritional requirements of the livestock; they must be of natural origin. " 7. In Article 13, the indent "- amendments to Annexes I, II, III, IV and VI," is replaced by the following: "- amendments to Annexes I to IV, VI and VII,". 8. Annexes I, II and III are amended in accordance with the Annex hereto. 9. For the purposes of determining stocking density on holdings so as to limit the number of livestock in line with the area available, stock numbers shall be converted into livestock units (LU) using the conversion table, which shall form a new annex (Annex VII) to Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91, as set out in the Annex hereto. Article 2 This Regulation shall enter into force three months after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities. A\ This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States. Done at Brussels, For the Council The President M. ANNEX 1. In the section headed "Plants and plant products" in Annex I (PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIC PRODUCTION AT FARM LEVEL), the subparagraph on animals and animal products is deleted. 2. The following section is inserted: "II. Livestock and livestock products i. general principles Livestock production forms an integral part of many agricultural holdings practising organic farming. To qualify as organically reared, livestock the products of which are intended for human consumption must be fed on crop products produced in accordance with the principles of organic production. It must be reared in accordance with the rules set out in this Annex, preferably using feed from the holding. Livestock production must ensure the equilibrium of agricultural production systems by providing for the soil's organic matter and nutrient requirements. It can thus contribute towards establishing and maintaining soil-plant, plant-animal and animal-soil interdependence. By utilizing renewable natural resources (livestock effluents, legumes and fodder crops), the mixed-cropping/stockfarming system allows soil fertility to be maintained and improved in the long term and permits the development of sustainable agriculture. Animal feed must satisfy the livestock's nutritional requirements and must be organically produced except where provision is made for a derogation. ^3 The widest possible biological diversity of livestock must be maintained and the choice of breeds must take account of their capacity to adapt to local conditions. The animals' living environment must allow them sufficient freedom of movement depending on the behaviour peculiar to each species. Housing must be well ventilated, must permit daylight to enter and must afford sufficient comfort for the livestock, in particular through the provision of suitable facilities and adequate litter. These principles covering choice of breeds, feedingstuffs and living environment should limit animal-health problems so they can be controlled mainly by prevention. The use of allopathic treatment may only be authorized by way of an exception. Organic stockfarming is a land-related activity. In most cases, the livestock must have access to a free-range area and the number of animals per unit of area must be limited to ensure integrated management of livestock and crop production on the holding, so precluding any form of pollution, in particular of the soil and of surface and ground water. The number of livestock must be closely dependent on the area available for spreading livestock manure and on any other organic manure used so that any adverse effect on the environment can be avoided. The total stocking density of the holding may not exceed two livestock units (LU) per hectare. Where other organic manure is spread, the total stocking density will be reduced to avoid exceeding a total nitrogen input equivalent to 2 LU/ha, that figure being equivalent to 170 kg N. The coefficients for converting the various categories of animals into livestock units are set out in Annex VII. Where those stocking densities (or quantities of nitrogen spread) are exceeded, a derogation may be granted by the inspection authority or body on condition that the farmer can provide an effluent spreading plan utilizing additional areas available Aif on other holdings locally or in the region with which there is cooperation on a regular basis. Such areas must be the subject of formal undertakings by the farmers concerned and no other livestock effluents may be spread thereon. Where there is a risk of significant pollution, the inspection authority or body may lay down maximum densities lower than 2 LU/ha in order to safeguard the environment. In organic farming, all livestock on one and the same production unit must be reared in accordance with the rules laid down in this Annex. Livestock reared in accordance with the principles of conventional farming may be present on the holding provided it is reared on units where the buildings and parcels are separated clearly from the units producing in accordance with the rules of organic farming and a different species is involved. Reproduction is to be based on natural service. Artificial insemination is authorized. However, embryo transfers and the use of hormones to control ovulation are prohibited, except where veterinary treatment is administered to a individual animal. Mutilation such as tail-docking, tooth-removal, castration, de-horning, trimming of beaks and wing-clipping of queen bees must not be carried out systematically in organic farming. Some of these operations may, however, be authorized by the inspection authority or bodies for reasons of safety or if they are intended to improve the health or welfare of the livestock. Such mutilation must be carried out by qualified personnel and any suffering to the animals must be avoided. Transport of livestock must be carried out so as to limit the stress suffered by the animals and must involve the shortest time possible. Loading and unloading must be carried out without brutality and the use of tranquillizer AC during the journey is prohibited. National and Community provisions on the subject must be observed in all circumstances. At the time of slaughter livestock must be handled in such a way that stress to the animals is reduced to a minimum, care being taken to ensure as far as possible that the livestock is identified and kept separate from other, conventionally reared animals. 2. • Origin of the animals Livestock must come from holdings which comply with the rules on the various types of livestock production laid down in Article 6 and in this Annex and throughout its life that system of production must apply thereto. Subject to a maximum of 10% of adult livestock per year, female (nulliparous) animals which have not yet reached adulthood may be brought in from conventional stockfarms for the renewal of the herd or flock. That percentage may be increased, following the opinion and agreement of the inspection authority or body and with the agreement of the competent authority of the Member State, in special cases, such as where a major extension to the stockfarm is undertaken, a breed is changed, a new livestock specialization is developed or animals are destroyed as a result of animal-health problems. By way of a derogation, where organically reared animals are not available in sufficient numbers, conventionally reared livestock may be brought into organic livestock holdings subject to the following conditions: A6 pullets for the production of eggs must not be more than 18 weeks old; chicks for broiler production must be less than three days old; calves must be less than four weeks old; piglets must be reared organically from weaning. Such derogations, which must be authorized beforehand by the inspection authority or body, are to apply for a transitional period expiring on 31 December 2000. Males for breeding may be brought in from conventional stockfarms provided the animals are subsequently reared and always fed in accordance with the rules laid down in this Annex. As regards all livestock obtained from conventional stockfarms, special attention must be paid to animal-health rules, the inspection authority or body being authorized to apply special measures, such as screening tests, depending on the local circumstances. In beekeeping, apiaries are to be constituted by multiplication of existing colonies or by acquisition of swarms or hives from beekeepers complying with organic beekeeping rules. By way of a derogation, swarms on their own may be acquired from conventional beekeepers during a transitional period expiring on 31 December 2000, subject to a conversion period. 3. Conversion periods Animal feed on organic farms must come from holdings complying with the rules laid down in Part I of this Annex on crops and crop pruducts. The rules on the origin of livestock set out above must be observed if products of animal origin are to be sold as organic products. Af Where a cattle, sheep, goat, pig or poultry farm is converted, the whole fodder area of the production unit must comply with the rules on organic farming. Meadows and fodder crops must have undergone a normal conversion period of two years. The inspection authority may, with the approval of the competent authority, decide to extend or reduce that period, depending on how the parcels were used previously If livestock products are to be sold as organic products, the livestock holdings undergoing conversion must comply with the rules laid down in this Annex, in particular as regards feed, animal health and housing, for at least: 12 months in the case of cattle for meat production, six months in the case of small ruminants, swine and poultry for meat production, brought in after they are three days old, 12 weeks in the case of animals for milk production, 10 weeks in the case of egg production. Where livestock is brought in from conventional stockfarms in accordance with the conditions and restrictions set out in the preceding point, the periods laid down above must be observed if the products are to be sold as organic products; during those periods all the rules set out in this Annex, in particular as regards feed and health treatment, must be complied with. Beekeeping products can only be sold as organic products if the general conditions on feeding, care and housing have been observed for at least one year. The material from which the hives are made must comply with the rules laid down in this Annex. Where swarms on their own are acquired from conventional beekeepers, the conversion period is also one year. FÊÊQ: À& AU livestock on the holding should normally be fed entirely on fodder and feedingstuffs produced in compliance with the rules on production laid down in Article 6 and in Annex I. Agricultural holdings should normally produce their animal feed themselves but in special situations organic feedingstuffs may be purchased from holdings or enterprises subject to the rules on production laid down in Article 6 and Annex I. Such feed is intended to ensure quality production rather than maximum growth while meeting the nutritional requirements of the livestock at various stages of development. By way of a derogation, for a transitional period expiring on 31 December 2000 the inspection authorities and bodies may grant authorization for the use of a limited proportion of conventional feed where the farmer is unable to obtain feed exclusively of organic origin. The maximum percentage of conventional feed authorized per day is 10% in the case of ruminants and 20% in the case of non-ruminants. That figure is calculated as a percentage of the dry matter of feed of agricultural origin. Up to 20% of the feed formula of rations may comprise crop products after conversion where they come from parcels complying with the rules on production laid down in Article 6 and Annex I for at least one year. Part C of Annex II lists conventional feeds which may be used in rations, in particular to meet the livestock's protein requirements. Where forage production is lost in particular as a result of exceptional weather conditions, those percentages may be adjusted where so warranted, as authorized by the inspection authority or body. A Straight and compound feedingstuffs must comply with the rules laid down in Council Directives 77/101/EEC5 and 79/373/EEC. 6 As regards the presence of undesirable substances and products, animal feedingstuffs are subject to the provisions of Council Directive 74/63/EEC. 7 In order to satisfy the nutritional requirements of livestock, vitamins and trace elements may be added in accordance with Council Directive 70/524/EEC8. Mineral substances indispensable for the nutritional requirements of livestock should preferably come from natural raw materials or feed naturally containing such substances. Part D of Annex II lists the authorized feed supplements. Apart from milk and milk products, no other products of animal origin may be used in animal feed. The use of any synthetic substance administered in feed or orally to stimulate growth or production is prohibited. Rearing systems for polygastric animals are to be based on maximum use of pasturage. At least 60% of the dry matter in daily rations is to consist of roughage, fresh or dried fodder, or silage. Silage may not be used exclusively. OJ No L 32, 3. 2. 1977, p. 1. Last amended by Directive 90/654/EEC (OJ No L 353, 17. 12. 1990, p. 48). OJ No L 86, 6. 4. 1979, p. 30. Last amended by Directive 93/74/EEC (OJ No L 237, 22. 9. 1993, p. 23). OJ No L 38, 11. 2. 1974, p. 31. Last amended by Directive 94/16/EEC (OJ No L 104, 23. 4. 1994, p. 32). OJ No L 270, 14. 12. 1970, p. 1. Last amended by Directive 94/77/EC (OJ N oL 350, 31. 12. 1994, p. 113). tte Authorized silage preservatives comprise sea salt, coarse rock salt, so-called organic preservatives such as yeasts, lactic, acetic, formic and propionic bacteria, enzymes, whey, sugar and molasses. In beekeeping, hives must be placed solely in areas where cultivated plants or spontaneous vegetation complying with the rules on organic production are found, in accordance with Article 6 and Annex I. The Member States are to designate regions or areas where organic beekeeping is practicable. Where no such areas are identified, the beekeeper must provide the inspection authority or body with justifications and a guarantee, in particular on the basis of suitable analyses, that the areas accessible to his colonies meet the abovementioned conditions. The feeding of colonies is authorized where weather conditions require that sufficient reserves be built up for winter. Feeding must be carried out between the last honey harvest and the colony's period of dormancy. Feeding is normally carried out with organic honey but sugar syrup may be used provided it has been prepared from products complying with the rules on organic production. By way of a derogation, sugar syrup and honey from conventional apiaries may be used until 31 December 2000. 5. Disease prevention and veterinary treatment Disease prevention is the guiding animal-health rule in organic livestock production. The health of the livestock depends on careful animal husbandry to ensure resistance to disease and to prevent infection. In this connection, several factors may contribute towards sound disease prevention and the limiting of animal-health problems, namely the choice of breeds adapted to local conditions, balanced high-quality feed, housing in line with the ?A morphology and requirements of the livestock, exploitation of the animals' natural defences and rational utilization of free-range areas. Animals which are injured or show symptoms of disease must be treated forthwith, if necessary in isolation in suitable premises. The farmer must provide health surveillance for his herd or flock so as to detect any anomaly. Treatment using plant extracts, trace elements and products listed in Part D of Annex II and the administration of homeopathic products (plant, animal or mineral substances) are authorized without restriction. Allopathic preventive treatment is prohibited, as is the use of any substance to stimulate growth. Hormones to induce or synchronize heat are also prohibited. Hormones may, however, be administered to treat individual animals for reproductive problems. Where a disease cannot be treated as set out above, allopathic treatment may be administered in order to save the life of the animal, to avoid suffering, or if it cannot otherwise be restored to sound health. Similarly, vaccines may be used where the disease has been recognized as present in the area where the holding is located and in the case of vaccinations which are compulsory under the relevant legislation. Allopathic treatment must be administered under the responsibility of a veterinarian, the type of product being specified clearly, together with the duration of treatment and the recommended withdrawal period before the products are consumed. This information is to be entered in the livestock records and declared to the inspection body. Livestock treated must be clearly identified, individually in the case of large animals, individually or by batch in the case of poultry and small animals, and by colony in the case of bees. &L The period elapsing between treatment with synthetic drugs and the possibility of selling the animal products as organic products is to be twice that laid down by law. In the specific case of beekeeping, colony health is to be maintained by acting to reduce factors contributing to the development of disease. To that end, the following measures are to be applied: hardy breeds adapted to local conditions are to be chosen; queen bees are to be renewed regularly; equipment is to be cleaned and disinfected at regular intervals; contaminated material is to be destroyed; beeswax is to be renewed regularly; sufficient pollen and honey are to be made available in hives. Where the use of synthetic products proves necessary to eradicate certain transmissible diseases which are likely to destroy colonies, the treatment must be administered as far outside the periods when the queen is laying and honey is harvested as possible. If treatment is to be applied during such a period, the colonies treated must be placed in isolation hives. Subsequently, the conversion period of one year will apply to those hives. As regards livestock production as a whole, where an animal or group of animals is administered more than two courses of treatment with allopathic products other than for parasites during an annual production cycle or lifecycle should the latter be less than one year, the livestock products obtained may not be sold as organic products during the year concerned. 6. Livestock housing, free-range areas and storage facilities for livestock effluents and silage liqupr In the case of all species, housing conditions must meet the livestock's needs as regards movement, natural light and comfort. The livestock must have easy access to feeding and watering points. Housing must be sufficiently ventilated depending on the climate. &3> Where animals are reared in groups, the size of the group must depend on the animals' stage of development and behavioural needs. Materials which may be toxic for livestock are prohibited in the construction of housing and in treatment products. All mammals must be provided with a sleeping area strewn with litter material. The latter must comprise straw or other suitable natural material. The litter may be improved and enriched with any mineral product authorized for use as a fertilizer in organic farming in accordance with Part A of Annex II. Poultry houses must have perches of a size and number commensurate with the size of the group and of the birds. Housing is to be cleaned with water under pressure or hot water. Premises may be disinfected using the products listed in Part E of Annex II. Buildings must be cleaned, and in particular insects and pests eliminated, in the absence of the livestock, only the authorized products listed in Part B of Annex II being employed. Storage facilities for livestock effluents and silage liquor must preclude the pollution of water by run-off and infiltration of the soil or discharge into surface water of liquids containing livestock effluents and silage liquor. With a view to sound fertilizer management, the capacity of facilities for livestock effluents must be greater than that required for at least six months. In the case of mammals, breeding livestock and animals for milk production must have access to pasturage or open-air exercise areas whenever the weather conditions and the state of the ground so permit. %Q Such free-range areas must also provide sufficient protection against rain, wind, sun and excessive temperatures, depending on the local weather conditions. In the case of livestock for meat production, conditions are to be based ideally on the same principles but the final fattening phase may take place indoors. Such buildings must be sufficiently spacious to afford freedom of movement in line with the animals' needs. Derogations from that principle may be granted by the inspection authority or body in order to take account of local circumstances relating to holding structure or the organization of housing peculiar to certain regions. Such derogations may only be granted for existing buildings while new buildings must comply with the basic principles set out above. Buildings used for livestock must provide each animal with a dry rest area of sufficient size. Generally speaking, the stocking density in buildings will depend on the species, the breed, the age and the size of the animals. It must also take account of the behavioural needs of the animals, which depend in particular on the size of the group and the animals' sex. The optimum density will seek to ensure the animals' welfare by providing them with sufficient space to sleep, feed and move around. As regards the rearing of calves, the parameters for housing on all holdings must comply with Council Directive 91/629/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves9. If pigs for fattening are housed in piggeries, the minimum free space available for resting must comply with Article 3 of Council Directive OJ No L 340, 11. 12. 1991, p. 28. 91/630/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs. 10 In addition, the animals must have access to a covered exercise area of an equivalent size, strewn with litter material. Slatted floors throughout and tethered housing are prohibited. The other provisions on housing and rearing laid down in Directive 91/630/EEC will apply to all buildings once this Regulation has been approved. At all times throughout the day, weather permitting, poultry must have access to a grassed run with protective facilities. Buildings must be ventilated and have openings of a size proportionate to their dimensions. Natural light may be supplemented artificially to provide a maximum of 16 hours' light per day. Buildings must be emptied of livestock for health reasons between each batch of poultry reared. The building and fittings are to be cleaned and disinfected during that time. In addition, when the rearing of each batch of poultry has been completed, runs must be left empty to allow grass to grow back and for health reasons. Poultry for egg production must be reared in a semi-intensive system and have access to a building of a size and with facilities affording adequate comfort for the birds. The runs and buildings must meet the following minimum conditions11: the hens must have continuous daytime access to open-air runs; 10 O J N o L 3 4 0, 11. 12. 1991, p. 33. These conditions correspond to points (b) and (c) of Annex II to Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1274/91 of 15 May 1991 introducing detailed rules for implementing Regulation (EEC) No 1907/90 on certain marketing standards for eggs (OJ No L 121, 16. 5. 1991, p. 11), as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 786/95 (OJ No L 79, 7. 4. 1995, p. 12). £6 the ground to which hens have access must be covered mainly by vegetation; the maximum stocking density must not exceed 4 000 hens per r hectare of ground available to the hens or one hen per 2,5 m2, as regards the interior of the building: the maximum stocking density must not exceed seven hens per square metre of floor space available to the hens; at least a third of this floor area must be covered with a litter material such as straw, wood shavings, sand or turf, a sufficiently large part of the floor area available to the* hens must be available for the collection of bird droppings. Poultry for meat production must be reared in traditional free-range conditions with access to an open-air run and to a building of a maximum size and features in line with the various species concerned. The minimum conditions to be met by such production units are as follows : the indoor stocking density per square metre of floor space must not exceed: in the case of chickens: 12 birds not exceeding 25 kg liveweight in total. However, in the case of mobile chickenhouses not exceeding 150 m2 floor space and remaining open at night, the stocking density may be increased to 20 birds, subject to a maximum liveweight of 40 kg per square metre; 12 These conditions correspond to point (d) of Annex IV to Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1538/91 of 5 June 1991 introducing detailed rules for implementing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1906/90 on certain marketing standards for poultrymeat (OJ No L 143, 7. 6. 1991, p. 11), as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 3239/94 (OJ No L 338, 28. 12. 1994, p. 48), with the exception of the details on finishing in confinement (^finition in claustration"). #¥ in the case of Muscovy and Peking ducks: 8 males not exceeding 35 kg liveweight in total or 10 females not exceeding 25 kg liveweight in total; in the case of Mulard ducks: 8 birds not exceeding 35 kg liveweight in total; in the case of guineafowl: 13 birds not exceeding 23 kg liveweight in total; in the case of turkeys: 6,25 birds (or 10 birds up to 7 weeks old) not exceeding 35 kg liveweight in total; in the case of geese: 5 birds (or 10 birds up to 6 weeks old) not exceeding 30 kg liveweight in total; the total usable area of poultry houses at any single production site must not exceed 1 600 m2; each poultryhouse must not contain more than: 4 800 chickens, 5 200 guineafowl, 4 000 female Muscovy or Peking ducks or 3 200 male Muscovy or Peking ducks or 3 200 Mulard ducks, 2 500 geese and turkeys; the poultryhouse is to be provided with pop-holes of a combined length of at least 4 m per 100 m2 area of the house; the birds must have continuous day-time access to open-air runs at least from the age of: six weeks in the case of chickens, eight weeks in the case of ducks, geese, guineafowl and turkeys; the open-air runs must comprise an area mainly covered by vegetation amounting to at least: K8 2 m2 per chicken, Muscovy or Peking duck, or guineafowl, 3 m2 per Mulard duck, 6 m2 per turkey, 10 m2 per goose; In the case of guineafowl, open-air runs may be replaced by a perchery having a floor area of at least twice that of the house and a height of at least 2 m. At least 10 cm perch space must be available per bird in total (house and perchery); the birds fattened are to be of a strain recognized as being slow growing; the feed formula used in the fattening stage must contain at least 70% cereals; the minimum age at slaughter is: 81 days for chickens, 49 days for Peking ducks, 70 days for female Muscovy ducks, 84 days for male Muscovy ducks, 92 days for Mulard ducks, 94 days for guineafowl, 140 days for turkeys and roasting geese. In beekeeping, the hives must be made of natural materials presenting no risk of contamination to the environment or the apicultural products. Protective products used must comply with the same conditions. Frames and supers for the harvest may only be protected, in particular from pests, by means of the products listed in Part B of Annex II. All synthetic chemical products are prohibited. £J The beeswax for new frames must come from production units complying with the rules on organic beekeeping. By way of a derogation, in particular in the case of new installations, conventional beeswax may be authorized by the inspection authority or body in exceptional circumstances where organically produced beeswax is not available on the market. " 3. In ANNEX II, Part C ("OTHER PRODUCTS") is replaced by the following: "C. Straight feedingstuffs of agricultural origin not produced organically, referred to in paragraph 4 of Part II of Annex I C. l Oilseeds, cereals and fodder crops Lucerne Legumes (whole, meal, cake obtained by pressure): lupins, soya beans, peas, chick peas (Cicer arietinum), chickling vetch (Lathyrus sativus), field beans (Vicia faba) Oilseeds (whole, meal, cake obtained by pressure): sunflower seed, rapeseed, linseed. C. 2 Processed crop products By-products of the starchmaking industry (maize or potatoes) By-products of the milling industry (bran) Beet pulp By-products of the malting and brewing industries Sugar (for beekeeping) C. 3 Livestock products and by-products 3© Milk and milk products C. 4 Miscellaneous Pollen (for beekeeping) Nectar (for beekeeping)". 4. The following Part D is added to ANNEX II: "D. Feed supplements authorized for use in animal feed 1. Minerals and trace elements Sodium: unrefined sea salt coarse rock salt sodium sulphate Calcium: lithothamnion and maerl quarried calcium carbonate calcium lactate Phosphorus: bone dicalcium phosphate precipitate defluorinated dicalcium phosphate defluorinated monocalcium phosphate Magnesium: anhydrous magnesia magnesium sulphate magnesium chloride Sulphur: sodium sulphate Iron: ferrous carbonate ferrous sulphate monohydrate ferric oxide \>l Iodine: calcium iodate hexahydrate potassium iodide Cobalt: cobalt sulphate monohydrate basic cobalt carbonate monohydrate Copper: cupric oxide copper carbonate monohydrate copper sulphate pentahydrate Manganese: manganous carbonate manganous and manganic oxide manganous sulphate mono- and tetra-hydrate Zinc: zinc carbonate zinc oxide zinc sulphate mono- and hepta-hydrate Molybdenum: ammonium molybdate Selenium: sodium selenate. 2. Miscellaneous Powders and extracts of plants, spices and herbs Stone meal and charcoal Seaweed Yeasts Shells and cuttlefish bones Fish oil and cod-liver oil Fish autolysates, hydrolysates and proteolysates obtained by enzyme action, whether or riot in soluble form (solely to provide ^>iL young animals with the vitamins, minerals and proteins they need). " 5. The following Part E is added to ANNEX II: "E. Products authorized for the treatment and disinfection of buildings and plant E. l Products used in livestock buildings milk of lime liquid bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution) caustic soda (for plant) caustic potash (for plant) natural essences of plants sodium hypochlorite (for beehives). formic, lactic and acetic acid (for beehives). E. 2 Products used to clean equipment nitric acid (dairy equipment)". 6. The following Part F is added to Annex II: "F. Other products". 7. In Annex III (Minimum inspection requirements and protective measures pursuant to the inspection system provided for in Articles 8 and 9), the heading of Part A (A. Plants and plant products from farm production or collection) is replaced by "A. l Plants and plant products from farm production or collection". 8. The following section is added to ANNEX III: "Va "A. 2 Livestock and livestock products produced by animal husbandry 1. Holdings producing livestock and livestock products in accordance with the rules laid down in this Regulation are subject to the inspection requirements covering crops and crop products by virtue of the obligation laid down in Annex I for areas to be available on them for crop production. 2. In addition to those requirements, specific provisions on livestock production must be complied with. 2. 1. When the inspection system applying specifically to livestock production is first implemented, the producer and the inspection body must draw up: a full description of the livestock buildings, exercise areas and, where applicable, the premises for the storage and processing of livestock and livestock products, a full description of the installations for the storage of livestock effluents, a plan for spreading such effluents, together with a full description of the areas given over to crop production, where appropriate, the arrangements laid down by contract with neighbouring farms as regards the spreading of effluents, all practical measures to be taken on the stockfarm to ensure compliance with this Regulation. '^ < •/ The description and the measures concerned are to be set out in an inspection report countersigned by the producer concerned. The report must also contain an undertaking by the stockfarmer that he will comply with the provisions of Article 6 and Annex I and will consent, in the event of a breach thereof, to the application of the measures provided for in Article 9(9). 2. 2. The general requirements on inspection in points 1 and 3 to 8 of Part A of Annex III covering crops and crop products are applicable to livestock and livestock products. By way of a derogation from those rules, veterinary drugs are permitted on holdings provided that they have been prescribed by a veterinarian in connection with treatment as referred to in Annex I, that they are stored under supervision and that a register is kept of drugs purchased and administered. 2. 3. The livestock must be identified permanently using techniques adapted to each species, individually in the case of large mammals and individually or by batch in the case of poultry and small mammals. The livestock and livestock products are to be identified at all stages of distribution, and in particular during transport, slaughter and subsequent processing. 2. 4. Registered livestock records are to be compiled and kept available to the inspection authorities or bodies at all times at the registered address of the holding. Such records, which are to provide a full description of the herd or flock management system, must contain the following information: ir by species, as regards livestock arriving at the holding: origin and date of arrival, conversion period, identification mark and veterinary record; as regards livestock leaving the holding: age, number of head, weight, identification mark and destination; details of any animals lost and reasons; as regards feed: type, including feed supplements, proportions of various ingredients of rations and periods of access to free-range areas, where restrictions apply; as regards disease prevention and treatment and veterinary care: date of treatment, diagnosis, type of treatment product, method of treatment and practitioner's prescription for veterinary care with reasons and withdrawal periods applying before livestock products can be marketed. 2. 5. Where a producer manages several livestock holdings in the same region, the units which produce livestock or livestock products not covered by Article 1 will also be subject to the inspection system as regards the first, second and third indents of point 2. 1 of this section on livestock and livestock products and as regards the provisions on livestock management, livestock records and the principles governing storage of animal husbandry products used. At all events, on such production units the same species of livestock cannot be reared as on units as referred to in point 1. " ^6 9. The following new annex (Annex VII) is added: "ANNEX VII Livestock unit (LU) conversion factors Class or species Number of animals in class equivalent to 1 LU Equines over 6 months old Calves for fattening Other bovine animals less than one year old Male bovine animals from one to less than two years old Female bovine animals from one to less than two years old Male bovine animals two years old or over Breeding heifers Heifers for fattening Dairy cows Cull dairy cows Other cows Female breeding rabbits Ewes Goats Piglets Breeding sows Pigs for fattening Other pigs Table chickens Laying hens Other poultry ^ 1. 0 0,4 0,4 0,6 0,6 1,0 0,8 0,8 1,0 1,0 0,8 0,02 0,15 0,15 0,027 0,5 0,3 0,3 0,007 0,014 0,03". ISSN 0254-1475 COM(96) 366 final DOCUMENTS EN 03 14 15 Catalogue number : CB-CO-96-367-EN-C ISBN 92-78-07204-4 Office for Officiai Publications of the European Communities L-2985 Luxembourg