Certification

Organic certification addresses the need for assurance that organic food is grown and processed in accordance with specified organic standards. A certification body assesses the farm or processing facility to ensure that it is adhering to these standards. No prohibited materials may be used for 3 years prior to certification.

Steps to Organic Certification

Information Gathering
Certification requirements will vary depending on where the product is produced, processed or sold. It is important to gather information about organic standards and regulations that apply to the region the product will be certified in, as well as any regions where the product will be sold. Certification bodies have similar, but not necessarily identical standards, though all should meet the minimum requirements set out by the National Standard for Organic Agriculture.
Contact Certification Body
The certification body (CB) will require compliance with specified standards and extensive paperwork detailing the history and existing set-up of the operation. The CB will outline the details of the application process. It is advisable to contact the certification body as soon as possible, as some CBs require inspection during year 1 or 2 of the transition period. A fee (generally $400 - $2000 per year, depending on agency and size of operation) will be required for certification.
Inspection
Once an application has been received, the certification body will arrange for a third-party inspector to visit the operation. This may include a physical inspection, examination of records and an oral interview. It is important that detailed farming and marketing records are maintained, as these must be available for inspection at any time.
Certification
If the operation is found to be in compliance with the standards, a certificate of certification will be issued. Annual updates and inspections are required to maintain certified organic status.

Certification Bodies in Ontario

Last Updated: 2006-12-08 11:05:59