Welcome to the PACS organic resource and information directory. Use this page to access and download organic industry standards and regulations.
ORGANIC STANDARDS & DIRECTIVES ORGANIC MANUALS INPUTS
If you are ready to learn more about PACS step-by-step process to organic certification, please visit our Learn page or contact us directly.
Standards
National & Provincial Guidelines
Use the links below to download Canadian Standards Handbooks below. To access copies of the BC Certified Organic Program manuals, please go to COABC’s website.
COR Standards & Regulations
GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND MANAGEMENT STANDARDS
CAN/CGSB 32.310-2020
This is the basic guideline for all forms of organic production, including crops, livestock and processed (prepared) organic foods.
PERMITTED SUBSTANCES LISTS
CAN/CGSB 32.311-2020
This is the government-approved list of substances that can be used in the production of organic products of all types. It does not include Brand Name products but, rather, individual substances. Products (inputs) must always be approved by PACS prior to use.
SAFE FOOD FOR CANADIANS REGULATIONS,
PART 13 - ORGANIC PRODUCTS
BCCOP Standards & Regulations
Equivalency Arrangements
Use the links below to understand the requirements for importing and exporting organic products with the trading partners.
CFIA
Memos & Directives
The CFIA periodically releases Memos and Directives which provide supporting information to the COR Operating Manual and/or Safe Food for Canadians Regulations – Part 13 (previously Organic Product Regulations (OPR)) Please use the link below to see the the most current releases.
Manuals
Organic Operators
Use the links below to download the Canada Organic Regime Operation Manual.
PACS clients may contact our office to request copies of the following in-house manuals which outline the programs offered by PACS and the processes required for certification: PACS Certification Procedures Manual, PACS Handbook for Organic Operators, PACS Quality Manual, Low Risk Assessment
CANADA ORGANIC REGIME OPERATING MANUAL: ENGLISH
CANADA ORGANIC REGIME OPERATING MANUAL: FRENCH
This is a collection of policies and procedures that relate to organic activities applicable to the Canada Organic Regime (COR) developed by the Government of Canada.