Canada unveils new organic logo
tell consumers that they are purchasing products that are federally
certified as organic.
The logo, which was presented at the Barrie Farmer's Market earlier this month, is part of the nation's new Organic Products Regulations announced in December 2006. It will be permitted for use only on those food products certified as meeting Canadian standards for organic production, such as using natural fertilizers and raising animals in conditions that mimic nature as much as possible. Certified products must also contain at least 95 per cent organic ingredients, said the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in a statement. "Canada's New Government is delivering certified choice for consumers," said Chuck Strahl, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for CFIA. "This logo means consumers will know that products that bear it have met strict criteria and are certified organic." The Canada organic logo is due to be phased-in by December 2008, after which point it will be mandatory that all organic products be certified for interprovincial and international trade. According to CFIA, there are more than 40 other countries world-wide with organic regulations. In addition to protecting consumers against false organic claims, the regulations provide a competitive advantage for the Canadian organic sector internationally, it said. Canada's Organic Products Regulations are a result of national consultations which began in 2003. Published last year, they aim to "protect consumers against false organic claims". "Not only will Canadians be protected against deceptive and misleading claims on organic products, but the organic industry's capacity to respond to international and domestic market opportunities will be strengthened," said Minister Strahl on their publication. To access the Organic Products Regulations, click here.
