Several private organizations certify financial planners, but there are no government or academic standards for the field, said Dr. Mandell.

The organization has certified 16 Internet pharmacies so far.

This organization certifies professional members, establishes standards for herbal education and sponsors educational conferences.

Today, the organization certifies attorneys in 21 different specialty areas and paralegals in six specialty areas.

These organizations certify the use of the registered names "Waldorf" and "Steiner school" and offer accreditations, often in conjunction with regional independent school associations.

Organic producers, by contrast, have developed broadly recognized criteria, including nonchemical production and natural pest control, that allow several international organizations to certify their coffee.

Some 250 organizations certify fitness professionals, but it is not always easy to know how rigorous their standards are.

Because no commercial organization or agency certifies compliance, commercial vendors can create the test methods or approaches to fit their product.

Some organizations certify fishing industry players for sustainable or good practices, such as the Marine Stewardship Council and Friend of the Sea.

The organization has 69 members and has certified over 200 products in 2010.