Conversion and origin of animals
As far as the conversion of livestock is concerned, cattle whose progeny is intended for organic meat production must be mated on an organic unit, after which they must be managed in accordance with the standards.
Conversion of existing breeding animals for milk and suckler production takes 9 months under organic management
Breeds and strains of animals shall be selected to avoid disease or health problems associated with some breeds or strains used in intensive production.
Cattle must not come from herds where BSE has been confirmed prior to August 1996. Any cattle born before the end of August 1996 with unknown BSE history and bought-in to an organic or in-conversion herd must be removed from the herd within two years or by the end of the conversion period.