Any food, seed, or animal feed that is labelled organic is regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Producers of these products must be prepared to demonstrate that organic claims are truthful and not misleading, and that all commodity-specific requirements have been met. All food sold in Canada must comply with Food and Drugs Act and Regulations and the Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations.
What are the requirements for imported organic products?
Imported organic products may be certified to the Canadian Organic Standards by a CFIA accredited certification body or be certified in accordance with an equivalency arrangement established between Canada and the exporting country. Where an equivalency arrangement is in place, organic products have to be certified by a certification body accredited by that country and recognized by Canada. Imported certified organic products with 95 per cent or more organic ingredients may display the Canada organic logo on the labels. All relevant Canadian legislation would also continue to apply for the imported product.
Regulating organic products in Canada
Starting October 1, 2020 importers of fresh fruits and vegetables will be required to submit a digital copy of organic product certificate when declaring organic products online using the Integrated Import Declaration (IID).
Please continue to use AIRS to verify the import admissibility requirements for fresh fruit and vegetables, including any organic requirements.
Please contact our regulatory group at transitioncdn@willsonintl.com with any questions or concerns.