Understanding Organic

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Overview
GFS Canada has put in place a set of national standards for foods labeled as ‘organic’. These standards must be met regardless of whether the product is grown in Canada, the United States, or imported from other countries. When purchasing branded products labeled as ‘organic’ from Gordon Food Service®, Markon Cooperative®, or Fresh Start®, you can be sure that they are produced utilizing only the highest organic and handling standards in the world. 

What is organic food?
Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering, or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled ‘organic’, a government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to ensure the farmer is following all of the rules necessary to meet USDA / CFIA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to the distribution chain must be certified as well.

Markon Cooperative® members seek individual certification under strict guidelines by Quality Assurance International, Inc. ®

From Field to Shelf
Independent, third party certifications of organic food systems have been the foundation of the domestic and international organic food trade. The evolution of this verification effort, which documents the authenticity of organic farming and various subsequent levels of handling, is mandatory under the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) / CFIA and full implementation of the National Organic Program (NOP) Final Rule.