Canadian Organic Standards
CHFA was actively involved in the 2025 review of Canada’s Organic Standards through the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB). Our role ensureds that the perspectives of our members were represented throughout the process. By participating, CHFA helped maintain the integrity of the organic, standards while minimizing regulatory burden.
CHFA sat on the CGSB Organic Standards Technical Committee (TC) with a voting seat to ensure that all member concerns were considered as the standards are updated.
The review of the Organic Standards followed a structured process to ensure transparency and stakeholder input:
- Initial Drafting and Working Group Review — Early in the review process, CGSB convened working groups composed of technical experts and industry representatives. These groups examined existing standards, identified areas for improvement, and prepared draft revisions based on science, industry practices, and international benchmarks.
- Technical Committee Review —The draft standards were reviewed by the TC, which ensures that revisions align with Canadian regulatory requirements and reflect the diverse perspectives of stakeholders, including CHFA members.
- Public Comment Period — Following TC review, the draft standards were released for public consultation. This period saw an unprecedented level of engagement. The working groups and TC reviewed all comments thoroughly.
We are pleased the new editions of the Standards are now published.
General Principles and Management
CAN/CGSB 32.310-2026
Permitted Substances List
CAN/CGSB 32.311-2026
These updated standards reflect the collective expertise and commitment of stakeholders from across the organic sector.
Future of the Canadian Organic Standards
As of March 31, 2026, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wound down the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB). CGSB has been an accredited standards development organization (SDO) under the National Standards System, accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), for many years and has served as the federal government’s standards development body.
The decision to dissolve the CGSB was part of the Canadian Budget 2025 Comprehensive Expenditure Review. Responsibility for the Canadian Organic Standards (COS) and related standards development activities will be re-housed within the federal system. Next steps and a detailed transition plan are still being determined. This work will be led by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Food Safety and Consumer Protection Directorate, Labelling Division.
CFIA indicated they will work with key stakeholders to ensure continuity in the maintenance and future development of the Canadian Organic Standards during the transition period. CHFA will monitor the transition to help ensure continuity in the maintenance and review of the Canadian Organic Standards ahead of the next scheduled COS review.
CHFA will continue to update members and provide opportunities to engage in future advocacy and feedback efforts.