What does organic mean?

Organic agriculture respects nature and growers’ health by ensuring that Bridgehead coffee is grown without chemicals that are harmful to farmers and to the environment. Organic coffee earns important premiums for farmers that ensure sustainable farming communities.

All Bridgehead coffees and teas are certified organic. Certification means that an independent inspector has monitored the on-farm activities and has verified that all practices are in compliance with organic standards. Our coffee roastery has also been certified by the Organic Crop Improvement Association (OCIA). Growers of Bridgehead coffees and teas have received organic certification from respected certification agencies (e.g., OCIA), many of which are accredited by IFOAM (International Federation for Organic Agricultural Movements).

Organic farming methods work in harmony with natural biological processes without using any artificial chemicals nor genetically modified organisms (GMO’s). Organic management is more labour-intensive than ‘conventional’ farming and may involve composting, controlling weeds and pests by hand, and maintaining biodiversity of shade cover and companion plants. These practices are designed to encourage the use of natural biological methods that preserve the environment, ensure sustainability, and protect growers’ health.

Organics closer to home

We also continue to look for opportunities to integrate more organic products into our coffeehouse and mail order food programs. Our organic products include, for example, milk, cream, selected vegetables, nuts, and spices.

Organic resources and organizations

Canadian Organic Growers [www.cog.ca]
A national information network for organic farmers, gardeners, and consumers. The website includes directories of where to buy organics in various Canadian regions.

Organic Consumers Association [www.organicconsumers.org]
– The OCA has a US-based website that houses a number of grassroots campaigns on food safety, organic agriculture, fair trade, and sustainability.

Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada [www.organicagcentre.ca]
Founded in 2001, the Nova Scotia campus is becoming recognized as the home of producer-based research on organic agriculture in Canada. Related courses are offered online.

Social Accountability in Sustainable Agriculture [www.isealalliance.org/sasa/]
This is a collaborative project that brings the international fair trade and organic systems together. Through pilot projects, they strive to improve social auditing processes and foster closer cooperation and shared learning.