Crete Organic Certifications Suspended Over Fraud Irregularities

Thursday, 14 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Greek authorities have suspended or placed under review several organic certification programs in Crete following inspections that uncovered suspicious irregularities in livestock farming and beekeeping operations. The investigation builds on a broader scandal from roughly a year ago in which a number of producers were found to have fraudulently obtained organic certification labels. The Ministry of Agriculture launched follow-up audits, and preliminary findings suggest the problem extends into subsidized organic programs across the island. For visitors, this means that products labeled organic at local markets or farm shops may not meet certified standards. Tourists purchasing honey, dairy, or meat described as certified organic should ask vendors for current certification documents or buy from established retailers with verifiable supply chains. The situation is ongoing, and further suspensions of producers are expected as audits continue.