Who, What, Why, Where, and How to Go Organic
What does going organic mean in Canada?
Organic refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed. Organic food is produced using environmentally- and animal-friendly farming methods. Organic certification lets consumers know that every step along the supply chain has protected and maintained the organic integrity that begins at the farm.
In Canada, this system is overseen by government organic standards and regulations, and applies to both domestic and imported products. Canada’s organic standards are among the most widely recognized in the world, and place strict limits and prohibitions on the use of toxic and persistent pesticides; synthetic fertilizers; the routine use of drugs, antibiotics or synthetic hormones; animal cloning; Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs); sewage sludge (biosolids); and irradiation. Organic standards also forbid the use of artificial food colours, flavours, sweeteners, preservatives and many other processing aids and ingredients commonly found in processed foods.
Guided by these and other standards, organic is now the most heavily regulated and scrutinized food system in Canada, letting you help our environment while also choosing great-tasting, healthy food for you and your family.
Who grows organic in Canada?
There are more than 3,700 organic farms in Canada covering 825,000 hectares of land, each producing fresh, home-grown food that’s nutritious, tastes great and is good for our environment and communities. These farms employ more than 11,000 agricultural workers, making Canada the 4th largest market for organics in the world. On average, the organics industry contributes more than $3.5 billion to our economy annually, and over 20 million Canadians choose organic options for their groceries each week.
Organic farming is catching on fast in Canada. A recent survey found that 59 per cent of Canadians believe organic farming is better for a healthy environment. While the total number of farms in Canada declined by 17 per cent since 2001, the number of organic farms grew by 66.5 per cent. The industry is strongly attracting the next generation of farmers, too. While eight per cent of farmers in Canada are under 35, this percentage rises to 12 per cent among organic farmers.
Where can you find organic food?
It is now easier than ever to find certified organic options at cafés and restaurants, farmers’ markets and through food-box delivery programs or community supported agriculture.
And remember, organic products are always certified, so always look for this symbol: