The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) today announced the publication of two updated National Standards of Canada (NSCs) that will assess operational compliance and prevent deceptive practices in the marketplace while ensuring that organic production systems support the Principles of Organic Agriculture.
These updates are part of SCC’s ongoing effort to modernize standards, drive economic and social well-being, and provide assurance in organic products and the systems used to produce them.
NSC CAN/CGSB 32.310, Organic Production Systems – General principles and management standards, describes the principles and management standard of organic production systems. It requires that all stages of production, preparation, storage, transportation and marketing of organic products be subject to inspection and comply with this standard.
NSC CAN/CGSB 32.311, Organic Production Systems – Permitted substances lists, provides lists of substances that are allowed for use in organic production systems. It sets out requirements for adding or amending permitted substances in organic crop and livestock production and in processing and sanitation.
The updated National Standards of Canada are available at no charge:
- NSC CAN/CGSB 32.310, Organic Production Systems – General principles and management standards
- NSC CAN/CGSB 32.311, Organic Production Systems – Permitted substances list
Quick facts
- The update of these standards has been made possible with financial support from the Government of Canada.
- These updated standards are referenced in the Canada Agricultural Products Act under the Organics Products Regulations, 2009.
Quotes
“These National Standards of Canada on organic production systems are yet another example of SCC’s leadership in facilitating standardization solutions that protect Canadians. As a result, consumers and trade partners can feel confident in the high quality and safety of Canadian organic products and livestock.”
- John Walter, Chief Executive Officer, SCC
"These standards were developed by the Canadian General Standards Board’s Committee on Organic Agriculture—a committee consisting of Canadian stakeholders in this subject area. We are very fortunate to have these committed and engaged individuals who volunteer their time to provide the expertise needed to ensure that Canada’s National Organic Standards continue to be relevant, representative of Canada’s public interest, and serve the needs of all stakeholders. The Canadian General Standards Board is proud to lead this work, and to ensure a credible and robust consensus process for the development of these standards in support of Canada’s economic, regulatory, health and environmental interests."
- Begonia Lojk, Director, CGSB
More information
- View the full updated standards:
- Learn more about Standards for Organic Production Systems
About the Canadian General Standards Board
The Canadian General Standards Board is a federal government organization that offers client-centred, comprehensive standards development and conformity assessment services in support of the economic, regulatory, procurement, health, safety and environmental interests of our stakeholders — government, industry and consumers.
About the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
The Agency’s mission is to safeguard food, animals and plants, which enhances the health and well-being of Canada's people, environment and economy. With regard to organic production, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for overseeing, monitoring and enforcing the Organic Products Regulations, 2009 (OPR). For more information, please visit the CFIA’s Organic Products webpage.
– 30 –
Media contacts
Christine LaRocque
Manager Communications
Standards Council of Canada
+1 613 238 3222 ext. 462
christine.larocque@scc.ca
Media Relations Unit
Public Works and Government Services Canada
819-420-5501