For members with stores in British Columbia: Food and beverages labelled as “organic” must be certified as of September 1, 2018

The BC Ministry of Agriculture’s food and beverage regulations will change on September 1, 2018 to require that producers and processors of food and beverage products labelled as “organic” obtain certification through an accredited federal or provincial program. This is similar to existing requirements in Quebec, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and is consistent with the Federal Government’s approach under the Organic Products Regulation.

Member Update / Impact:

Retailers will want to ensure they source products from vendors who meet the certification requirements.

Under the amended process, uncertified producers in the province marketing their food or beverage products as “organic” will face the possibility of penalties, including a $350 fine. Non-certified producers have been provided with a lengthy transition period to allow the time to complete the certification process.

Background:

The Ministry of Agriculture first announced its intention to require that food and beverages labelled as “organic” be certified through an accredited federal or provincial program in an intentions paper published in 2015.

Next Steps:

RCC will continue to advocate for harmonization of food and beverage regulations across the country.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact: Greg Wilson, Director, Government Relations (B.C.) at 604-736-0368 or gwilson@retailcouncil.org.