OCO Winter 2012 Member Newsletter by Organic Council of Ontario

Organic Focus Organic Council of Ontario Newsletter

Winter 2012

In this issue: Organic Council of Ontario Activities

OCO Round-Up

2/3

Of-Note

4/5

Member Profiles

Upcoming Events

OMAFRA Update

Regulatory Affairs Update

Market & Consumer Trends

Get Engaged!

OCO’s AGM

Producer’s Corner

Board of Directors/ Staff

Season’s Greetings, OCO membership and supporters! 2012 has been quite a year, and provided the world doesn’t end (like some may prophesize) the day this newsletter is circulated, we have a lot of work ahead of us in 2013. As with many non-for-profit organizations engaged in meaningful change, OCO finds itself in a funding crunch. We launched our Co-Farmer Campaign last spring, and Coordinator Elizabeth Stewart has worked tirelessly to implement creative ideas and projects to raise awareness of our program. Ultimately our lesson has been that we need to raise the profile of the Organic Council of Ontario with consumers AND within our own membership if we are to achieve our goal of attracting 5,000 consumer members. To that end, we launched a Co-Farmer Gift Campaign this holiday season, offering OCO members an opportunity to gift 5 memberships for the price of 4 to colleagues, family, friends, clients or customers who would appreciate the gift of an organic voice in Ontario. And while the campaign was designed for the holidays, we invite OCO members to consider the offer at anytime during the year. If only half our current membership participated or encouraged others to take the offer, we would reach our membership and fundraising goal! Our last quarter has been extremely productive. Having raised money to travel privately, I was able to attend the Bhoomi Conference in Dehradun, India, on the 50th Anniversary of the publishing of Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring”. Dr. Vandana Shiva invited me to attend to see how we can work together to engage in an International Seed Freedom Campaign. We have incredible video interviews, photographs, and essays as a result of the trip, and new connections with international efforts to support our work and reach our consumer base. We will present on this once-in-a-lifetime experience at the AGM March 21, 2013. OCO has also been heavily engaged in the struggle to keep Ontario RoundUp Ready

Volume 6, Issue 3

Alfalfa free. We attended the Canadian Seed Trade Association’s Co-Existence Strategy Workshop. OCO brought Marty, Chris and Gabi Boettcher to speak on their experience as long time mid-scale organic farmers. Marty’s impassioned, well-researched and powerful presentation can be found on the OCO website. In the end we were able to get on the official record our opposition to the starting assumption that “zero GMOs is no longer possible nor the goal”. Our work on this issue continues into 2013 as we work with colleagues across the country including CBAN and the NFU to stop GMO alfalfa. OCO worked on the proposed Ontario Food and Nutrition Strategy, the Local Food Act, and the “Flocking Options” campaigns through our work with Sustain Ontario. OCO has been a voice of reason in a number of these discussions and we have worked to ensure that the “O”-word (organic) stays present in these policy-oriented conversations. OCO has continued our involvement in the Low Level Presence Policy consultations with the federal government. It appears the federal government is intent on allowing unapproved GMOs into our food stream with no clear plan or direction. Please see our regulatory affairs update on page 9 for more details. We are pleased to represent such a hardworking, forward-thinking, self-sacrificing community. We have seen incredible generosity of time and resources from OCO members on various issues- whether it is organizing RR Alfalfa protests or talking chicken strategy or being interviewed or talking about our issues with customers- thanks for making our work this past year so rewarding!

Jodi Koberinski, OCO’s Executive Director

Organic Focus

Of Note...

Winter2012

GMOs and Labels The following was written by Beth McMahon, Executive Director of COG. Like many of you, I was disappointed that Prop 37 in California didn't pass. We had great hope that the "yes" side would come out on top; however, in the last month of the campaign, the anti-GMO labelling coalition was spending more than $1 million/day on a barrage of advertising–convincing voters that it would significantly increase their food costs and add more "confusing red tape". The fact is, the "no" side spent about 5X as much as the "yes" side on their campaign (more than $46 million). It also comes as no surprise that Monsanto was the largest donor, followed by DuPont and Pepsi (here's a pie chart of the funders). Far from being proud of the technology they have developed, I'd say these companies were terrified of people finding out what they are eating! Despite the loss, Prop 37 accomplished many positive outcomes: 

Prop 37 has increased public awareness about GMOs, certainly more than what would have been possible in a regular "no GMO" campaign. Did you see all those celebrities lending their support to the issue? Danny DeVito, James Franco, Elijah Wood... And watch the latest celebrity propelled "Just Label It" video!

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Prop 37 gained the support of more than four million people who voted to have the right to know what's in their food–and gained the attention of millions across North America.

Prop 37 has fuelled interest across North America from those who want to see GMO ingredients identified on labels–there is even a public members bill in Canada right now, which would require mandatory labelling (you can sign this petition in support of it). So, until there is a mandatory label, vote with your fork and choose organic to avoid GMOs (and lots of other toxic chemicals)! 

To read more about GMO Labelling & Proposition 37 check out the following resources: 

To read about GMO labelling at the international level click here (CBAN resource).

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To read an article about Proposition 37 written by Ian Cumming from the Ontario Farmer click here.

2013 Ontario Organic Awards— Nominations still Open! Click here to nominate online or go to http://www.organiccouncil.ca/initiatives/ awards/nomination. Nominate your favourite organic producers, retailers, processors and more. Click here to learn more (www.organiccouncil.ca/awards2013)

Of Note...

Volume 6 Issue 3

Take Action: Keep Non-Approved GMOs out of Canada Please take a moment to respond to the Government of Canada’s call for feedback on its proposed LLP Framework. See below for a link to consultation documents. KEY OBJECTIONS: 1. The proposal is not science based, it is a trade policy, and recently Bill C 474 was defeated because it`s ‘tradebased’ ask for governments to consider economic harm of introducing GMOs prior to approval was not in keeping with national policy to follow ‘science-based’ GMO policy. 2. There is no provision for ensuring the polluter pays when a contamination occurs. The Government of Canada would like to invite you to participate in the Government of Canada’s Proposed Domestic Policy on the Management of Low-Level Presence (LLP) of Genetically Modified Crops in Imports and its Associated Implementation Framework online consultations. The proposed Policy and Framework set out the Government of Canada’s proposed direction for managing occurrences of LLP. It clarifies the risk management approaches that will be taken to address LLP occurrences and stipulates the conditions under which enforcement actions will and will not be taken on imported food and feed products. The objectives of the proposed Policy and Framework are to provide transparency and predictability for importers and exporters and minimize disruptions to trade while protecting the health and safety of people, animals and the environment. The Policy and Framework also intend to facilitate an efficient risk-based approach to managing an expected increase in occurrences of LLP in international trade, while promoting compliance with Canadian regulatory requirements. Consultation documents, including the proposed Policy and Framework and the consultation questionnaire are available via the online LLP consultation website.

Organic Focus

Winter2012

OCO Round-Up

Upcoming OCO Events

OCO’S 2012 Fall Activities SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

2013 Ontario Organic Awards

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The Ontario Organic Awards aim to celebrate and recognize innovation in the organic sector. Nominate your favourite organic processor, producer, CSA and more

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here. Nominations have been extended until January

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3rd, 2013 (http://www.organiccouncil.ca/initiatives/

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awards/nomination). Tickets are $40 dollars for OCO members. The Award ceremony will take place at the River Run Centre, in

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Guelph on Saturday, February 2nd, 2013 from 610:30pm.

Visit/Join OCO at the Guelph Organic

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NOVEMBER 

Conference OCO will be heading up a workshop about the Cofarmer movement and ways to partner growers and eaters at this year’s Guelph Organic Conference on Saturday, February 2nd from 1:30-3pm. If you attend the conference remember to stop by and visit our booth as well.

Mark your Calendars for OCO’s AGM

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The Annual General Meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, March 21st, 2013 at the Loyola House, Ignatius Business Centre, Guelph— 8:30 am to 3 pm. See page 12 for more information.

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See page 11 for how you can participate in this year’s Organic Expo within the Green Living Show, April 12th—14th, Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition

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Place, Toronto.

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40, 000 people are expected to attend. Do not miss

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out on this exciting opportunity to reach out to new customers at the first Organic Expo.

Met with the Environment Commissioner of Ontario to discuss recent changes to Nutrient Management Act and plan further meetings on Soil Biodiversity and Health Wrote grant application for New Directions Funding Organized sector response to call for input from the Agriculture Minister on Growing Forward 2 programs Hosted 3rd Annual Dinner and Jazz Night Provided research and an interview for upcoming Better Farming article on local foods and sustainability Developed programming for EcoFarm Day 2013 Attended business forum “Natural/Organic/Local – Be careful what you ask for.” hosted by the University of Guelph Appeared on CTV’s Morning Express with Dan Matheson debating against pro-GMO, pro-chemical farming Patrick Moore to ensure organic is positioned in a positive light in response to his report criticizing the organic certification process. Attended the Growing Forward 2 Program Design and Delivery Consultations

DECEMBER 

Green Living Show

Contacted the Minister of Agriculture, Ted McMeekin, to congratulate him on the proposed Local Food Act and to invite a meeting to discuss the concept of resiliency outlined in the Act Chair Matt LeBeau attended the Premier’s Summit on Agriculture Coordinated an interview with Global National News on the implications of RR Alfalfa Completed the Local and Organic Messaging Strategy for CAAP grant Finalized certification information/brochure for producers on website Attended Organic Parliament Day in Ottawa hosted by Canadian Organic Growers and Canada Organic Trade Association Attended Canadian Seed Trade Association “Co-existence Strategy” for RR-Alfalfa Meeting

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Met with the Marketing Ontario Organics working group to brainstorm marketing tactics. Participated with Federal Government on proposed LLP Policy which would allow un-approved GMOs into our food system Attended the Ontario Livestock and Poultry Council meeting Met with Green Living Show organizers to makes plans for the first Organic Expo at this year’s Green Living Show Held board meeting to review financial situation & Cofarmer campaign Worked with FarmStart to initiate a national conversation on farm and finance

Volume 6 Issue 3

OCO Round-Up

ABOUT ORGANIC GARAGE: “At Organic Garage, we believe in creating an environment where our customers can After countless hours of planning, we have to wonder if events make healthier food choices. We do this not just by selling like the Dinner & Jazz Night are worth all the work that goes organic or all natural grocery items in our store, but by orgainto them - but then the night arrives and something magical nizing in-store events where our customers can talk to vendors happens! about their products.

3rd Organic Dinner & Jazz Night Unites Sector

On November 16th we once again filled the Great Hall of the University of Toronto’s Hart House building. Guests included those who work within the organic industry as well as Cofarmer members and individuals wanting to learn a bit more about organics and the Organic Council of Ontario.

Our Gluten Free and Vitamin & Wellness Fairs and special Organic Week and Earth Day promotions are valuable learning vehicles for us as well as our customers. Our memberships in CHFA, CFIG, CFIB and our association with OCO, OTA and The Non GMO project have not only enabled us to educate ourselves and improve our marketing and buying strategies but Music by Tyler Yarema delighted the guests while Hart House’s have also helped to educate our customers as well.” Chef Marco turned out a 4-course organic masterpiece with 3 choices for mains including braised Fieldgate Organic short ribs, OCO’s next event is the annual Ontario Organic Awards taka pan-seared supreme of Yorkshire Valley Chicken filled with ing place Saturday, February 2nd, 2013 at the River Run Centre spinach and Organic Meadow swiss cheese, and a vegetarian in Guelph. The event runs parallel with the Guelph Organic Conference – one of North America’s largest and most visited option of cannellini bean & wild mushroom peperonata. organic conferences. The food alone was enough to inspire, but the experience was taken to a heightened level with each course being paired with OCO is accepting nominations for the awards until midan organic wine, graciously donated by their respective winer- December. The applications are very easy to fill out – which ies and brokers. Wine pairings included the 2010 “O” Pinot can be done here (http://www.organiccouncil.ca/initiatives/ Noir by Gilles Louvet Organic from Rare Earth Wines, 2008 awards/nomination) or can be downloaded and filled out and Organic Cabernet Franc VQA by Frog Pond Winery, and a emailed to Jodi@organiccouncil.ca. Vidal Ice Wine by Southbrook. We sincerely thank Organic Garage for presenting this year’s Intertwined between the music, food, wine, and lively conversa- Organic Dinner & Jazz Night. We’d also like to thank the Canations, Julie Daniluk, R.H.N., presented on the importance of dian School of Natural Nutrition for their sponsorship contrisupporting organic agriculture in creating both planetary and bution. OCO wishes to thank our many sponsors of the event personal health. She highlighted numerous studies that show including Crofter’s Organic, Fieldgate Organics, Southbrook GMO and pesticide exposure contribute to a great number of Winery, Creemore Springs Brewery, Frogpond Farm, Mill Steet health conditions including intestinal disorders, cancer and Brewery, Organic Meadow, Pfenning’s Organic Farm, CherryParkinson’s. However, my favourite part of the presentation vale Organic Farm, Rare Earth Wines, Sprouts for Life and Just was her slide that showed a delicious homemade organic bur- Juice. ger, French fries and lemonade which she prepared for less than the cost of buying the equivalent meal deal from MacDonald’s. Perhaps the most touching message was delivered by Matt Lurie, Founder and President of Organic Garage and this year’s official presenter of the Organic Dinner & Jazz Night. Matt’s message really helped us all understand why we were all there that night. Why we spent so many hours planning and promoting the event, and why all our guests took the time to join us. The theme of Matt’s speech centred on helping and this theme of helping was delivered through stories of his mother doing what she could do throughout Matt’s journey in establishing one of the most successful organic retail stores in Ontario. The full speech is available at http://www.organicgarage.ca/ Media.php. Thanks to Matt’s speech, we all left clearly understanding our purpose for being there that night – to do what we can to help.

OCO Member Michael Curry (Investico) & guests await dinner at this year’s Dinner & Jazz at Hart House, University of Toronto.

Organic Focus

Winter 2012

Member Profiles

Member Profiles From the OCO Membership Desk Hello OCO Members, We want to wish you Happy Holidays and we hope that this time of year is filled with great joy and wonderful (organic) food! Fall at OCO has been busy. If you haven’t noticed, organic agriculture and food has really been a popular topic in the media this Fall. This means that we have been busy keeping on top of media responses. As we become more and more known and trusted as a source of knowledge about organic and the organic sector, we also are getting more and more phone calls from journalists wanting to interview us. In October OCO coordinated an interview with the Global National News on RR-Alfalfa. Although we didn’t 100% agree with the final spin of the coverage, we were satisfied that media attention is being given to the issue. Apart from that, OCO’s ED Jodi Koberinski appeared on radio and television shows to talk about the benefits of organic and speak up for the sector. To listen in on parts of an interview, click here. OCO hosted its annual Dinner & Jazz night on November 16th. We look forward to these events to give our members an opportunity to come out and meet each other and network. OCO thanks our many sponsors of this event. Our next big events are the Organic Awards and the AGM meeting on March 21st (see events page). We hope to see many of you there to celebrate the organic sector and discuss the past year and upcoming plans for 2013 at the AGM. Our Co-farmer campaign is continuing. We are now up to 200 Co-Farmer members. In December, OCO held a Marketing Ontario Organics (MOO) meeting at the Big Carrot in Toronto. The meeting helped to brainstorm ideas to better advertise and reach out to potential members. OCO would like to continue with MOO meyetings and the next meeting will be held in March 2013. This group is open to members; meetings will likely be held in the Guelph/GTA area. If you are interested in taking part in the MOO meetings, please contact Mary at mary@organiccouncil.ca. In terms of membership, OCO really needs the support of our members to get the word out about us. This means communicating to your customers through newsletters, face-to-face or on your website/social media. Our logo and a write up will soon be available on our website for download. And finally, if you have any thoughts our concerns about your membership with OCO, do not hesitate to contact us, we would love to hear from you. Happy Holidays, Mary

New Member: Sosnicki Organics Certified Organic Family Farm Located in Norfolk County, Sosnicki Organics is a Certified Organic Family Farm and Food Processor committed to sustainable agriculture. The family’s philosophy is that farming practices should leave the soil, air, water, plant life, animals and people healthier – and happier. Proud to be an organic “micro farm” (a.k.a. small family farm) , the Sosnickis farm under 100 acres of 30 different vegetable crops with well over 100 varieties. Ben and Jessie, both farmers all their lives are very proud to have made the switch from conventional to organic. Having farmed organically for over 10 years, Ben and Jessie don’t look back! Ben says “We should have done it sooner”. Welcome aboard Ben and Jessie!

New Member: Rare Earth Wines “Discover the terroir in our wines!” Rare Earth Wines is passionate about organic wines! Created to address the void in available organic wines in Ontario, their goal is to be the source for premium natural, organic and eco-friendly wines. They constantly scour the globe for new and innovative products that represent the best of what the vine can offer; wines that speak of the sun, the rain and the terroir from which they originate. This Winter watch for their new releases of organic wines in Ontario and visit their website for more information. If you’re an Ontario organic wine maker, please contact Rachel at Rare Earth Wines (Rachelb@rareearthwines.com) to learn how they can help more Ontarians discover your spectacular wines. T: 416-642-2773.

Renewing Member: Nature’s Emporium

New/ Renewed Members: New: Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, Katan Kitchens, Rare Earth Wines, Kinsella’s Simply Organic Renewed: Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, Quality Assurance International (QAI), Field Gate Organics, Brunbrae Farms Ltd., Nothing But Nature Inc., Kiju, Ash Street Organics, FGO Organic Processing Inc., Angelo Alexopolous, Limestone Organic Creamery, Saugeen County Organic Dairy Yogourt, Deerfields Nursery, Garden Party Farm, Plovan Farms Ltd., Poechman Family Farm, Theodore Shelegy

Nature’s Emporium was established in 1993, with the central goal of introducing and providing a healthy and natural life style to the community. The store has always worked hard to achieve this through creative values and dedication to the details. From their humble beginnings in a small 4,000 sq. ft. location, to the brand new 50,000 sq ft. store they call home today, every step of their growth has been thanks to the incredible support from customers, and from our community beyond. Nature’s Emporium has always been about people – people in the community, and the people on the team. We at OCO are proud to have the team at Nature’s Emporium as a renewing member!

Volume 6 Issue 3

Upcoming Events

Oxford Organic Growers Meeting The Oxford Organic Growers would like to invite everyone to their meeting on January 15th, 2013 at 8:00 pm at the home of Tom and Stella Boon, 593780 Hwy 59 Burgessville, Ontario. Speaker for the evening is Dave Hunter, Farm Manager of Wolfe Creek/ Kerr Farms, of Chatham Ontario. Call 519-424-3113 for more information

Eco Farm Day

Organic, transitional and conventional farmers of field crops, market gardens, and livestock rely on Eco Farm Day for the best training, information, and commerce opportunities. Over 350 people come back every year for the social event, the networking, the positive atmosphere, and the great food!Eco Farm Day is hosted by COG. COG is a member of the Organic Council of Ontario. COG National has been a prominent voice for organics in Canada for decades. COG Ottawa, with over 500 members, hosts major activities for the benefit of organic consumers and farmers. Their mission is to lead local and national communities towards sustainable organic stewardship of land, food and fiber while respecting nature, upholding social justice and protecting natural resources. Price: regular Adult – $56.50 ($67.80 at door). Click here for more info. When: February 23rd, 2013

Guelph Organic Conference In its 32nd year, this conference offers 4 days of training, 2 days of trade show, a Friday night banquet, and more. Register online for the conference and view the many different workshops and presentations by visiting the conference website. OCO will host our 3rd Annual Ontario Organic Awards as a social event on February 2nd featuring dinner and awards from 7pm-11pm. Tickets for the event are on sale now – click here. When: January 31st– February 3rd, 2013, Expo, February 2nd and 3rd Where: Cornwall, Ontario only Where: University of Guelph, Guelph OCO’s AGM OCO’s Annual General Meeting will take place in Guelph on Ontario Organic Awards, an OCO event March 21st, 2013. We are currently planning the theme and orgaThe Ontario Organic Awards recognize and celebrates innovation nizing the guest speakers. Come elect the Board of Directors and in organic agriculture in Ontario. Awards will be given to individu- hear the highlights of 2012 at OCO. Lunch will be served. More als and businesses that show consistent and pioneering efforts information to be announced vial Email/ Enews or on our website. within Ontario’s organic sector. Some of the awards include Life- You can register here. time Achievement Award, Outstanding Dairy Producer, Out- When: March 21st, 2013, 9am—4pm standing Retailer and more. Nominations can still be made here Where: Ignatius Business Centre, Guelph until January 3rd, 2013. To purchase tickets click here ($40 for Visit our website for more info. members, $45 for new or current OCO members). When: February 2nd, 2013, 6-10.30pm Green Living Show Where: River Rune Centre, Guelph 2013 Organic Consumer Conference Presented by COG Toronto. Featuring keynote speakers: Deborah Koons Garcia is a fiction, educational and documentary film maker. For the last ten years, she has focused primarily on films about agriculture and the food system. Her film The Future of Food continues to play widely all over the world in theaters and at film, food and farming festivals and conferences and at thousands of community-organized screenings. Gilles-Eric Séralini is Professor of Molecular Biology at the University of Caen, France. He is also President of the Scientific Board of CRII-GEN (Committee for Independent Research and Information on Genetic Engineering), which he co-founded after judging that the studies on the harmlessness of GMOs are inadequate, and questioning their scientific evaluation. He recently led a team of researchers in a two-year study of the effects of feeding GM corn and glyphosate formulations to rats. The study showed tumours and other adverse health effects and raised concern about the safety of the genetic engineering of food. Find out more or purchase your tickets now! Tickets: $65 plus tax. When: February 13th, 2013 Where: U of T Conference Centre, U of T

See page 11 of this Newsletter for more information. OCO is organizing an Organic Expo within this year’s Green Living Show. Booths are available— both mini-booths and standard booths; OCO members will receive a 10% discount off prices. Last year 37, 000 patrons attended this event. When: April 12-14th, 2013 Where: Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto See page 11 for more info and contact details.

Have an upcoming event? OCO can help promote your events and exhibitions in our Newsletter, eNewsletter and our online events page. It’s easy. Simply send the details to info@organiccouncil.ca.

Organic Focus

Winter 2012

OMAFRA Update

Highlights from OMAFRA’s ON Organic Newsletter Full newsletters are posted on the OMAFRA website at:

http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/organic/news/news-organic.html

Funding Opportunities Ontario’s Regional Development Funds for Job Creation The new Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF) and renewed Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) are now receiving applications from companies for projects that drive innovation, grow Ontario's economy and create local jobs. The Funds are discretionary, non-entitlement programs with limited funding. There are two funding streams, one for established businesses and a regional stream for economic development organizations including municipalities. Under the business stream, the Funds may provide up to 15% of eligible project costs to a maximum grant of $1.5 million. For project investments of $10+ million that create 50+ jobs, funding may be available in the form of a secured repayable loan, to a maximum of $5 million in provincial support. If your project is a food processing initiative, visit the following links for more information: EODF SWODF

Visit http://news.ontario.ca/medt/en/2012/10/ontario-launches-job-creation-programs-in-eastern-andsouthwestern-ontario.html for more information and links to applications.

Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence The Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence program is accepting applications until Friday, January 18, 2013. The program recognizes innovators who contribute to the success of Ontario's agri-food sector. Eligible applicants could receive one of:

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a Premier's Award ($75,000) a Minister's Award ($50,000) three Leaders in Innovation Awards ($25,000 each) 45 provincial awards ($5,000 each ) Submit your application postmarked no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, January 18, 2013 to: Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs 1 Stone Road West, 3rd Floor SW Guelph, Ontario N1G 4Y2 Attn: Premier's Award Application information On-line at: www.ontario.ca/agrifoodinnovation E-mail: premiersagrifoodinnovationaward@ontario.ca Fax: 519-826-3442

Volume 6 Issue 3

Policy & Regulatory Affairs Update

Content for this update was provided by Ted Zettel. The Organic Council of Ontario chooses a representative for the Organic Federation of Canada (OFC)/ Fédération biologique du Canada (FBC). The OFC has been established in response to the federal government’s request to be able to communicate with one organic sector on regulatory issues. It also addresses the organic sector’s commitment to a voice and responsibility in the ongoing development of organic standards and regulations. The OFC/FBC is registered as a not-for-profit organization to advance federal policy dialogue from the perspective of the organic sector. Ted Zettel is OCO’s current representative on the federation as well as the Chair of the OFC.

Stevia Approved as a Sweetener Consistent with what CHFA has been saying for several months, the Food Directorate’s Bureau of Chemical Safety published a Notice of Modification to the Lists of Permitted Food Additives to Enable the Use of Steviol Glycosides as a Table-Top Sweetener and as a Sweetener in Certain Food Categories on November 30, 2012. Following a detailed safety assessment by Health Canada and public consultation, no safety concerns were raised and thus the List of Permitted Sweeteners now enables the use of steviol glycosides as described in the information document. Many of our members have long-awaited this decision and so we are very excited to finally announce the approval of stevia as a sweetener. Low Level Presence of Unapproved GMOs On November 6, The Government of Canada released a consultation on the Proposed Domestic Policy and Implementation Framework on the Management of Low-Level Presence of Genetically Modified Crops in Imports. The 75-day consultation period ends January 19, 2013. OCO had the opportunity to submit comments (visit www.organiccouncil.ca/takeaction to review OCO’s submission to the government of Canada) on Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s then proposed policy approaches for LLP. We also participated in consultations in Guelph and Ottawa, making the case that this policy diverges from Canada’s commitment to “science-based” GMO policy as this is clearly a trade-based policy. We also presented the case for the policy to undermine organic markets. Our sectors’ comments regarding the protection of organic integrity do not appear to have been incorporated in this recent version of the policy. OCO attended a consultation on December 10th and we were surprised by the lack of detail and thought that has gone into this policy. If you would like to contribute to our response document, please forward your comments to jodi@organiccouncil.ca by January 10th, 2012. OCO Chicken Consultations OCO provided information to the CFO for the development of its new Specialty Chicken Strategy, due early in the new year. In the meantime, Sustain Ontario network has launched the “Flocking Options” campaign to invite a conversation about how we regulate chicken production and processing in Ontario. OCO consulted with stakeholders from within our membership including large and small producers, quota and non-quota producers, self-marketers and brands. The goal of the Sustain Campaign is to begin a policy dialogue. Some organizations, like the PFO, are pushing for exemptions up to 2,000 birds across the board. OCO will be sending a letter to the CFO stating our support for Supply Management and suggestions for a leasing program for small flocks that doesn’t build financial value into the quota itself, making it accessible for more farmers while maintaining oversight of biosecurity and market-planning.

Organic Focus

Winter 2012

Market & Consumer Trends

Organic Industry Responds to the National Post The organic sector was hard hit by the media this Fall. First came coverage of two studies— the Stanford study and the Seralini et al. research. This resulted in plenty of media attention devoted to the topic of organic food and farming and its benefits, which were often questioned. Most recently, an article appeared on the National Post entitled ‘‘Canada’s organic food certification system ‘little more than an extortion racket,’ report says”. The article blatantly describes Canada’s organic certification system as useless and not to be trusted. OCO was quick to contact our partners in Ottawa. The Canada Organic Trade Association and Canada Organic Growers responded with the following news post: RE: ‘‘Canada’s organic food certification system ‘little more than an extortion racket,’ report says”, November 24th This article covers a report that is an untruthful and indefensible indictment of Canada’s organic farmers and businesses, who take great pride in providing consumers with a complete seed-to-fork system premised on integrity, traceability and transparency. On behalf of Canada’s 3900 organic growers and 1200 processors, we the undersigned, voice our unwavering support for the Canadian Organic Products Regulations in providing the public with the most scrutinized and inspected food production system available. Canada’s organic food system must meet all food safety and regulatory requirements, including random testing for chemical residue. Testing is, and always has been, one of the many enforcement and inspection mechanisms available during surprise spot-checks or when an inspector determines that testing is merited. Organic farmers and processors undergo mandatory annual third-party audits and site inspections. The authors of the Frontier Centre report are well-established opponents of organics, vocal in their support of GMOs, who have produced a heavily biased document. We are shocked by the media attention this has received, which is obviously intended to generate controversy, where none exists. Organic products have been proven through numerous peer-reviewed studies to contain significantly less pesticides and pesticide residues, in an environment already contaminated from years of toxic pollution. Organic farmers and businesses are working hard to reverse this trend and to create an alternative system to conventional agriculture. GMOs, artificial preservatives and colouring are not allowed in organic production. Canadian scientists studying organic agriculture seek alternatives to the use of toxic, persistent chemicals and crowding livestock through innovation and a better understanding of how our ecosystems work. From soils to food processing, the science of organic agriculture has clearly shown significant, measureable environmental benefits. The testing of pesticide residues does nothing to assure the end consumer about the holistic management of the farm, such as the source of seeds, humane conditions of livestock, and overall land stewardship. Sincerely, Canada Organic Trade Association, Canadian Organic Growers, International Organic Inspectors Association, Organic Federation of Canada, Certified Organic Associations of British Colombia, Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association, Pacific Agricultural Certification Society, Vitins Consulting, Saskatchewan Organic Directorate, Organic Council of Ontario, Atlantic Canadian Organic Regional Network, Oregon Tilth Certified Organic, Nature’s Path Foods, Whole Foods Markets, Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada

A reminder to check the OCO website for news (www.organiccouncil.ca/ news). We respond and organize key responses to media reports. If you see something in the news you think deserves attention, Email Mary at mary@organiccouncil.ca.

Get Engaged with Ontario Organics!

Volume 6 Issue 3

OCO is partnering with the Green Living Show to create an Organic Expo. What are the benefits for OCO members?  

Access to an expected 40, 000 guests (37, 000 attended last year’s show)  A great opportunity to advertise and promote your products A chance to distinguish your products within the Organic Expo, making your presence more rich and memorable for show attendees

OCO Members will receive a 10% discount. Mini-booths are available for $650 (24 sq ft, electricity, table). Standard-sized booths (10’ by 10’) are available for $1685 less 10% before December 31st or $1800 less 10% after December 31st. To learn more Email Elizabeth at Elizabeth@organiccouncil.ca. To register Email Randy Tyrrell at rtyrrell@green-living.com.

Organic Awards 2013 Organic Council of Ontario is hosting the

3rd Annual Ontario Organic Awards at the Guelph Organic Conference February 2013

Nominations due January 3rd, 2013 If you would like to be part of the nominations committee or the planning committee, please contact our office.

In OCO’s Office We are looking for volunteers across the province to attend and represent OCO at Farmers’ Markets. This will involve speaking on behalf of the organic sector and OCO to educate about organics and reach out to potential members. If you or someone you know may be interested, contact mary@organiccouncil.ca.

For details visit organiccouncil.ca or contact our office.

Organic Focus

Winter 2012

OCO’s AGM 2013 OCO’s AGM

MARCH 21st, 9:30am-3:30pm, Loyola House Retreat, Guelph Ontario Registration 8:30, networking until 4:30pm, Lunch provided The Organic sector in Ontario faces a number of challenges and opportunities. After more than 30 years of growth and transformation, our movement is at a cross roads. Organic credibility is under attack by chemical farming proponents attempting to dissuade an engaged public from their critique of the dominant food system. “Science” is being used to dispute our claims. We are both too lenient and too difficult with our Standards, so it is either not “organic enough” or “too expensive and impractical” to achieve. Add to this a whole new world of modern international trade agreements that impact everything from access to GMO-free seeds to local purchasing policies. In this shifting international context, where does Ontario organic fit? Our program will include: OMAFRA: Growing Forward, Agriculture Budgets and the Next Five Years We will invite specialists from within OMAFRA to present to the membership the new Growing Forward suite of programs. Beginning April 1st, Ontario will implement a new federal-provincial agreement that shapes all agricultural spending in the province for the next 5 years. Come learn what supports are available for YOUR business! There are a lot of exciting options for organic businesses under the new agreement. We will ask OMAFRA to present on ways businesses can access programs, options for organic businesses, working with multiple sources of funding, and opportunities for organic-specific training and programs within the Growing Forward Suite. What You Need to Know About Ontario’s Organic Landscape Theresa Schumilas, Lead Researcher for OCO’s New Directions project, will present the latest information on Ontario’s organic farm and food sectors, and will be asking membership to help direct our data collection and analyses efforts. Theresa will also review our 5 new fact sheets that can help you with your business planning. Seed Freedom: Engaging Consumers in the Global Struggle for Our Food Future Jodi Koberinski attended the Bhoomi Conference in India as part of Vandana Shiva’s Seed Freedom Campaign launch. Our goal in attending the conference was to unite our movement and efforts in Ontario with international efforts to achieve a sane, humane, sustaining food system. Highlights from the conference including video interviews with Vandana Shiva, Frances Moore Lappe and Debbie Barker will be shared. Consumer Engagement: Re-igniting the Organic Movement John Devlin, OCO’s Consumer Rep on our Board, is hosting a conversation at the Guelph Organic Conference on engaging consumers in our work. For years we’ve told shoppers to “vote with their dollars” yet we still face regulatory and market barriers as organic businesses. At the AGM we will continue the conversation started at GOC and explore ways organic businesses can start turning customers into fans. We will also provide an update on the hot topics your customers care about, and provide hands-on tools for OCO members to address concerns and highlight our “good news” story. SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR BOARD POSITIONS FOR ELECTION: Retail/ Direct to Consumer, Distributor, Associations/ NGOs, Wholesaler 2 years; Certifier 1 year.

SEND US YOUR KEY-NOTE SPEAKER REQUESTS! We had an amazing event last year featuring Dr. John Ikerd. His shoes will be a challenge to fill. If you have a topic or an inspiring and relevant speaker you would like us to invite, please let us know by JANUARY 10th. Email jodi@organiccouncil.ca or call the office at 519-827-1221.

Volume 6 Issue 3

Producer’s Corner

The Bauta Family Initiative – A New Organic Seed Economy USC Canada invites Canadian farmers and seed producers to participate in a brief survey to help identify demand and supply trends in the ecological seed sector. Questions relate to which vegetable and field crop seeds are most commonly used; the sources of those seeds; and which seeds are most commonly sold by Canadian seed companies. Survey results will provide helpful information about both demand and supply, as well as identify opportunities for ecological seed production in Canada. Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Results of the research will be available in 2013. Participate in the survey online (http://usccanada.org/what-we-do/canada/bauta-en/). For further information, contact Jane Rabinowicz (jrabinowicz@usccanada.org). Internship Opportunities Position: Organic Farming Internships in Ontario Type: full-time internships with individualized agreements around such things as living and eating arrangements, stipends, work hours, training methods. Organization: CRAFT SW Ontario http://www.craftontario.ca/regions/south-western-ontario/ If you, or someone you know, are ready for a full, hands-on experience that will immerse you in ecological farming then you've come to the right place. CRAFT Ontario is your gateway to a farming internship experience that will change your life. Whether your dream is to have your own organic farm one day or just want to learn some food-growing and hands-on skills that can be applied in other careers and lifestyles, a farming internship is a powerful experience that will equip you with the tools and insights to make a real difference in the world. Each CRAFT farm operates independently and offers its own internship with individualized agreements around such things as living and eating arrangements, stipends, work hours, and training methods. For more details and to learn about the individual farms offering internship visit www.craftontario.ca. Contact individual farms directly to apply or ask further questions. OCO’s Online Directory We have the stats now to say that OCO’s online directory is one of the most popular pages on our website. If you wish to be listed on the directory (and hence contacted perhaps), visit www.organiccouncil.ca/directory.

For details visit organiccouncil.ca or contact our office.

Board of Directors 2012 5420 Highway 6 North

Matt LeBeau Chair LeBeau Advance

Jenn Pfenning Vice Chair Pfennings Organic Farm

Marketing Representative

Producer Representative

Ted Zettel Director, Regulatory Affairs Organic Meadow Cooperative

Simon Jacques Director Eco-Cert Ltd.

Tom Manley Director Homestead Organics

Member at Large

Certifier Representative

Association Representative

Bernd Licht Treasurer Puresource Inc.

Maureen Kirkpatrick Secretary Big Carrot

Shauna Bloom Director Ecological Farmers of Ontario

Distributor Representative

Direct to Consumer (Retail & Restaurants) Representative

Association Representative

Guelph, ON N1H 6J2 Phone: 519.827.1221 E-mail: info@organiccouncil.ca web: www.organiccouncil.ca

The Organic Council of Ontario and its members represent Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organic farmers, producers, proces sors, marke ters, d i s t r i b u t o r s , retailers, restaurants, certifiers and more, OCO provides leadership and support for the continued growth of the organic sector. OCO is a strong voice for the sector and works with media, government and n at i ona l b od ie s whil e representing Ontario within the Organic Federation of Canada.

Gilbert Arnold Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada

Ex-Officio

Staff 2012 Jodi Koberinski Executive Director Jodi@organiccouncil.ca

Elizabeth Stewart Cofarmer

Mary Ellen Wales Communications

elizabeth@organiccouncil.ca

mary@organiccouncil.ca

Johnny Camera Industry Membership

Lesley Bulman Accounting

membership@organiccouncil.ca accounting@organiccouncil.ca

www.organiccouncil.ca

@orgcouncil.ca

organiccouncilofontario

Our next newsletter will be sent out on March 24th, 2013. Topics will include a summary of the Guelph Organic Conference and the Ontario Organic Awards, the 2013-2014 Board of Directors, OCOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planned speaker series across the province and more. If you have anything that you would like to see in the next issue send an Email to Mary at mary@organiccouncil.ca.