The Canadian Food Inspection Agency released updates to the Canadian Organic Standards on March 27, according to an announcement directed at COR certified operations in Canada.
The changes are part of a routine five-year review and update process conducted by the Canadian General Standards Board. This process ensures that organic standards remain current and relevant for producers and certifying bodies across Canada.
California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) said it is currently evaluating the updated standards to determine if any direct changes will be required for organic practices or the Organic System Plan of affected operations. The organization noted that if changes are needed, certified operations will have up to one year from the release date to incorporate them, as outlined in the COR Operating Manual C.5.2.
CCOF also said it will complete its evaluation of these updates and communicate with affected operations if any adjustments are necessary. In the meantime, CCOF encourages all COR-certified operations to review the newly updated standards themselves.
The regular revision of organic standards aims to support ongoing improvement within Canada’s organic sector while providing clarity and guidance for those seeking certification.
