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In British Columbia, organic farms and business can become certified organic through one (or both) of the following programs: BC Certified Organic Program (BCCOP) and Canada Organic Regime (COR).
The British Columbia Certified Organic Program (BCCOP) is open to businesses operating and marketing their products within the province. Launched in 1993, the program is administered by Organic BC and is sanctioned by the Government of British Columbia through the Organic Certification Regulation under the Food and Agricultural Products Classification Act.
Products certified under the BC Certified Organic Program are produced according to the Canadian Organic Standards. All certification bodies accredited by Organic BC offer BCCOP certification.
The BCCOP Operator’s Manual, Organic Production Standards and the Labelling of Organic Products contains the policies and procedures governing the BC Certified Organic Program, including product labelling requirements and the use of the BCCOP logo. The manual complements the Canadian Organic Standards by providing extra guidance and information regarding certification procedures and product labelling requirements of the BCCOP.
The BCCOP scheme is for operators who intend to sell their products within BC only, and who will not be selling their product to be used in a COR certified product.
This scheme allows BC operators to apply to be assessed based on low-risk criteria. If an operator meets specific criteria, the frequency of inspections may be reduced.
The Canada Organic Regime (COR) is Canada’s national regulated system for organic products, developed in collaboration with the government and the organic sector. Products certified under the Canada Organic Regime are produced according to the Canadian Organic Standards and may be sold nationally and/or internationally.
The Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR), which came into effect on January 15th, 2019, define the requirements for organic certification and requirements for organic products to be labelled as organic and/or that bear the Canada Organic logo.
The Canada Organic Regime (COR) Operating Manual provides an overview of the procedures and policies governing all those involved in the certification of organic products. Complete details about the COR can be found on the CFIA’s Organic Product website.
It’s easier than you think! Here’s how to get started.
