News in Brief:
– Canada invests more than $500,000 in the Organic Federation of Canada to update standards for organic agriculture and agri-food products.
– Updates aim to enhance competitiveness in the global market, promote sustainable practices, and benefit local farmers by aligning with international principles.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, has announced an investment of $502,374 to fortify the country’s position in the global organic food market.
This funding, part of the AgriAssurance Program â National Industry Association Component, will be directed towards the Organic Federation of Canada (OFC) to enhance the standards governing the production and marketing of certified organic products.
How Canada’s OFC will meet growing demands
Canada has witnessed a surge in the demand for organic food products, both domestically and internationally. As one of the leading countries in global organic sales, standardising practices become crucial for maintaining competitiveness in international trade. The regulations not only safeguard Canadian consumers by ensuring imported products comply with local standards but also pave the way for increased trade opportunities for Canadian organic producers.
The OFC, responsible for maintaining and interpreting the Canadian Organic Standards, will work closely with the organic sector to update these standards. The focus of this project is on incorporating new practices and permitted substances, with a special emphasis on animal welfare. The initiative aligns with sustainable and ecological organic practices, aiming to mitigate the impact of climate change by capturing and storing carbon in the soil and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Innovation for future sustainability
The organisation’s efforts extends beyond conventional standards. It explores innovative approaches such as vertical agriculture and sunless crops, showcasing a commitment to regenerative agriculture practices. These forward-thinking strategies are anticipated to have long-term positive effects on the organic farming sector.
This substantial investment not only benefits the global standing of Canadian organic products but directly impacts local farmers. By updating the Canadian Organic Standards, farmers can align with international principles, fostering growth in the domestic organic market. Jim Robbins, President of the OFC and a field crop producer in Saskatchewan, emphasises the importance of these standards in maintaining the growth trajectory of the Canadian organic market.
