Can artificial insemination (AI) be used in organic dairy farming?

Yes.

Artificial insemination (AI) is permitted under the organic standards used by AsureQuality, provided it complies with the requirements of the applicable organic standard.

AI is widely used by certified organic dairy farmers in New Zealand and can be an important tool for genetic improvement, herd management, and breeding programmes.

What are the requirements for AI in organic systems?

To be acceptable for use in organic production, artificial insemination must:

• Be non-GMO (genetically modified organisms are not permitted)
• Comply with the applicable organic standard
• Be supported by appropriate documentation where required

Using an organic-certified semen supplier is the simplest way to demonstrate compliance.

Which AI suppliers are currently certified?

The following suppliers currently hold organic input certification for the provision of bovine semen:

Certified suppliers provide assurance that their products meet the relevant organic requirements, reducing the need for operators to obtain supporting declarations for each purchase.

Can I use semen from a supplier that is not organically certified?

Yes.

Organic operators may use semen from non-certified suppliers, provided sufficient evidence is available to demonstrate compliance with the applicable organic standards.

In these cases, the supplier may be required to provide declarations or supporting documentation confirming that the product and production methods meet organic requirements.

What information may be required from a non-certified supplier?

The supplier declaration should confirm, where applicable:

• The semen is non-GMO
• Embryo transfer techniques have not been used
• Cloning has not been used
• Prohibited reproductive technologies have not been used
• Sexed semen has been mechanically separated only

The specific information required may vary depending on the certification scope and market requirements.

What reproductive technologies are not permitted?

The following practices are generally prohibited under organic standards:

Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer techniques involving superovulation of donor animals and transfer of embryos to recipient animals are not permitted.

Cloning

The use of cloned embryos or cloned animals is prohibited.

Hormonal Induction

Hormones must not be used to induce ovulation or birth, except where required for the treatment of an individual animal under veterinary supervision.

Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is not permitted in organic production systems.

Is sexed semen permitted?

Yes.

Sexed semen may be used in organic systems provided the sex-selection process is based on mechanical separation methods and complies with the applicable organic standard.

How can I check whether a semen supplier is approved?

Certified operators can use the MyOrganics platform to:

• Search approved inputs and suppliers
• Check conditions of use
• View supplier certification details
• Submit requests for assessment of new products or suppliers

MyOrganics is available to registered operators and forms part of the Organic Management Plan and compliance system.

Where can I get more information?

If you are:

• Considering organic certification
• Unsure whether a supplier or product is compliant
• Interested in becoming a certified organic input supplier

Please contact the Organics team for advice before making purchasing decisions.

Submit a request

If you have a question about AI, breeding programmes, or organic certification requirements, please submit a request through the Customer Care Centre and an Organics team member will be happy to assist.