New National Organic Standard

As of June 30, 2009, the Organic Products Regulations require mandatory certification to the revised National Organic Standard for agricultural products represented as organic in international and inter-provincial trade, or that bear the federal organic agricultural product legend (or federal logo).
Ottawa, June 24, 2009 — The Government of Canada today revealed the new organic logo that will give organics producers access to more markets and make sure Canadian families can find more certified organic food products in their grocery stores.

"This organic logo allows consumers to make informed, confident choices," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "At the same time, the new regulations will allow Canadian organic farmers to have their products recognized in this emerging market."

Canada's Organic Products Regulations (OPR), which come into force on June 30, 2009, set out rigorous standards for the certification of products as organic by accredited certification bodies. Products that meet the production requirements and contain at least 95 per cent organic content may be labelled as "organic" and feature the new Biologique Canada Organic Logo.

These new regulations apply to domestic and imported products. Regardless of origin, all products seeking organic certification must meet Canada's standards. To this end, an equivalency arrangement was recently reached with the United States to allow Canadian and American products to be certified as organic in either country. This agreement gives Canadian consumers more organic choices and organic farmers increased trade opportunities.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will work closely with the organic industry to help with the implementation of the new regulations.

For more information on Canada's organic products regulations and standards, please visit the CFIA website at: www.inspection.gc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency