In 2023, Canada witnessed a decline in the production and value of certified organic fruits and vegetables. This downturn has raised concerns among producers and consumers alike, highlighting the challenges faced by the organic sector.
The total farm-gate value of organic fruits and vegetables fell to $174.3 million, a drop of 11.1% from the previous year.
This decrease was particularly stark in organic fruit production, which plunged by a third due to adverse weather conditions in key provinces such as Quebec and British Columbia. Organic vegetable production also experienced a slight decline of 2.1%.
One of the most affected crops was organic cranberries, with the farm-gate value plummeting by over half to $19.4 million.
This was largely due to a significant reduction in cultivated areas in Quebec, which saw a decrease of 580 acres in 2020. Other fruits like highbush blueberries, wild blueberries, vinifera grapes, and strawberries also faced reductions in both production and value.
However, it wasn't all bleak news. Certain crops like sweet cherries and apples saw increases in their farm-gate values, offering a glimmer of hope to the organic sector. Sweet cherries, for example, enjoyed a 12.6% increase in value.
On the international front, Canada's trade of organic blueberries resulted in a deficit, with imports greatly exceeding exports.
Most of these imports came from the United States, Mexico, and Chile, underscoring Canada’s reliance on international sources for organic produce.
In terms of vegetable production, Quebec led the way, hosting over 65% of the country's organic vegetable cultivation. Despite a slight drop in total production, the province remained a crucial player in the organic market.
The stability in the share of the total field vegetable area dedicated to organic cultivation suggests a persistent interest in organic farming, though challenges remain.
As Canada continues to navigate these hurdles, the organic sector's resilience will be crucial for its recovery and future growth.