OEKO-TEX is set to officially launch its new ORGANIC COTTON label in April 2023.
Two initial pilot customers for the new organic label have already been successfully certified by the testing service provider Hohenstein. One of them is the Indian textile supplier Milan Group and the other one is the Turkish cotton producer Akasya.
According to Hohenstein, the new organic label ensures that all requirements for labeling as organic cotton are met. In addition to testing in accordance with OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, it ensures that the cotton contains less than ten percent genetically modified material, complies with pesticide limits and guarantees its organic origin.
Textile companies whose products have been certified with the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 can now have their certificates extended to an ORGANIC COTTON certificate after ensuring ecological production.
“A combination with OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN is ideal. This ensures environmental friendliness, transparency and socially responsible conditions in a single certification,” explained Ivonne Schramm, Head of OEKO-TEX® at Hohenstein.
The certificate can be used for readymade articles as well as for textile intermediate products; while mixtures of organic and conventional cultivation are not permitted.
“We are proud to extend our range of sustainability certifications with ORGANIC COTTON,” commented Mohammed Hasnain Narsinh, Managing Director of Milan Group India, adding, “and thus be part of OEKO-TEX®’s innovative program.”
Tolga Uskuc, Owner, Akasya of Turkey, averred, “The demand for organic cotton in the textile industry and among consumers is growing steadily, and with certification, we have clear proof of the origin of our product.”
