NPOP, which stands for the National Programme for Organic Production, is an initiative by the government of India that verifies organic products, including cotton. Cotton labeled as NPOP organic is cultivated without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Additionally, its production adheres to environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices.
Whereas, Organic cotton bearing the NOP label is cotton that has received certification from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program (NOP). This federal regulatory initiative establishes nationwide benchmarks for agricultural products produced organically and marketed in the United States.
5 major differences between NPOP organic cotton vs NOP organic cotton:
| Feature | NPOP organic cotton | NOP organic cotton |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) of India | National Organic Program (NOP) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) |
| Standards | Based on Indian standards | Based on United States standards |
| Growing practices | Prohibits the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs | Prohibits the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs |
| Processing practices | Prohibits the use of harmful chemicals and processes | Prohibits the use of harmful chemicals and processes |
| Labeling | Requires NPOP certification label | Requires NOP certification label |