Through certification bodies, organic farmers are able to establish that organic food is grown under the conditions set forth in the certification guidelines, but cannot guarantee quality or nutrition other than that covered by existing federal standards and regulations. In Manitoba, some organic producers have been able to sell to specialty markets for some time. Recently, there has been a steady increase in the demand for organic foods. For example, B.P.Kent Flour Mills of Virden reports it is now selling over one million dollars of organic products per year. The mill's products are processed at a plant in the community, but many of these products are exported and must meet stringent quality standards.
Most provinces have some type of regulatory or certifying agency.
These agencies are working together to establish Canadian standards which will be as stringent as the international standards for organic products. Marketing opportunities for organic producers are beginning to expand. Some supermarket chains have joined specialty stores and farm suppliers as markets for certified organic produce. Smaller regional food processors would likely be important in the development of these markets.