Top Trends for Natural Living in 2015
Trend 5: Product Certifications – Organic and GMO-free
Product Certifications (Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Organic)
There is an increase in consumers’ desire to know where their food comes from and if it has been
genetically modified. Canadians consistently support labelling of foods containing genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), citing consumers’ right to know where food comes from and the impact its
production has on the environment. While the debate surrounding GMO foods continues, suppliers are
increasingly stepping up to the plate and offering certified organic products, which is an assurance that
foods are produced without the use of GMOs. This trend will continue throughout 2015 in response to
consumers’ demand to know what is in their food, and increased labelling activism in Canada.
The key certification to look for on foods is the “Canada Organic” logo; a clear indication that a product
has been certified organic. In order to obtain an organic certification, products must go through a
stringent review process and demonstrate that the ingredients used are sourced from certified organic
sources and do not contain any GMOs. When buying organic foods, Canadians are investing in their
health and supporting sustainable, environmentally friendly agricultural practices and animal welfare.
Another certification gaining ground is the “Non-GMO Project Verified” designation. This rigorous
verification process is specific to the inclusion of GMO ingredients in products, carefully reviewing the
source of each potentially genetically modified ingredient in a product.
As the trend toward general health and wellness increases across Canada, consumers are becoming
more educated about new and innovative ways to optimize their health. This year, they can expect to
see exciting innovations and new research showing the health benefits of unique health foods popping
up in natural health food stores across the country.
To learn more about what labels to look for and what they mean, visit chfa.ca.