COG research reports on Barriers and Solutions in Canadas Organic Food Supply Chain

Feb 01, 2023

A research report from the Canadian Organic Growers outlines Barriers and Solutions in Canada’s Organic Food Supply Chain. It was released on Sunday, the final day of the Guelph Organic Conference (January 29th, 2023).

There are industry findings with details on six commodities including blueberries, carrots, salad greens, oats, field peas and beef.

The report summarized in part discusses the challenges of transitioning from conventional to organic production involving a significant commitment of time and resources. New practices in the barn and on the field present a learning curve. Major factors including securing new customers, finances and marketing channels.

Other challenges: not much information about how to go about transitioning from conventional to organic, significant record keeping is involved and a potential double whammy -- yield drop combined with a delayed organic premium price during the transition.

There is more insight on supply chain challenges and solutions available free at the Canadian Organic Growers’ online store or stay tuned here for more.

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Source : Small Farm Canada

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.