Only Quebec and British Columbia have provincial organic standards. Organic production consists of foods that avoid the use of chemicals, synthetic pesticides, irradiation, and foods that are not derived through genetic engineering. Canada is regarded as an ideal country for producing organic food because of its land base and its cold climate that reduces pest and disease. According to industry sources, nearly all of Canada's organic products are exported. The province of Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia are the main exporters.
Exports are mostly bulk grain and oilseed products.
Canadian Organic Growers and the Canadian Organic Advisory Board which helped develop the National Standard for Organic Agriculture. Many local organizations exist in each of the major producing provinces. The National Standard for Organic Agriculture were approved and published in April 1999. These national standards outline the production, processing and labelling requirements for organic agricultural products, and were developed in accordance with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, Draft Guidelines for the Production, Processing Labelling and Marketing of Organically Produced Foods. The national standard does not mandate certification and CFIA does not endorse any individual certifying body.