The Organic Council of Ontario (OCO), in partnership with the Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA), has published the 2024 Ontario Organic Market Report, providing an in-depth analysis of organic production and market trends. Utilizing data from Nielsen IQ, the report highlights Ontario's position in Canada's growing organic market.
Ontario is home to 18.9 percent of Canada's organic operations, with over 1,000 primary producers managing more than 343,828 acres, alongside 507 processors and handlers, and 232 livestock operators. In 2023, the province's organic food and beverage market hit $1.141 billion, accounting for 38 percent of national organic grocery sales.
"Ontario's organic market continues to see robust growth, with consumer demand driving significant increases, particularly in categories like fresh meat, poultry, and dairy," said Carolyn Young, executive director of OCO. "This surge reflects a growing preference for organic options, spurred by health and sustainability concerns."
Notably, the report reveals Ontario's dominance in the national organic bean market, with over 49 percent of fresh and dried organic bean sales. Fresh beans and peas captured 64 percent and 46 percent of national sales, respectively, despite a price decline in 2023.
"The organic sector is facing challenges due to inflation, yet certain products have shown resilience, maintaining stable or even reduced prices," said Krysten Cooper, Chair of OCO's Board of Directors. "This presents a unique opportunity for growth, especially as the lines between organic and conventional pricing continue to blur."
Other standout findings include a 41 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in tofu and meat alternatives, signaling a strong consumer shift toward plant-based diets. The report also emphasizes the increasing market share of organic products, which grew from 3.1 percent to 3.4 percent nationally between 2021 and 2023.
The report outlines several key strategies to ensure continued growth in Ontario's organic sector. These include optimizing the organic supply chain, improving affordability and accessibility, and advocating for supportive policies. As demand for organic products rises, Ontario has the potential to further expand its role as a national leader in organic food production and sales.
"We believe the organic market's future lies in innovation, education, and collaboration," said Ruth Knight, agronomist and OCO Board Member. "By focusing on consumer awareness, product development, and sustainability, we can meet evolving consumer needs while maintaining the integrity of organic farming practices."
The 2024 Ontario Organic Market Report is available for purchase, or free to download for OCO's supporting members. Non-members can buy the report for $250, and OCO basic members (certified Ontario businesses) for $50 via the OCO's website.
For more information:
Carolyn Young
Organic Council of Ontario
[email protected]
https://organiccouncil.ca