Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
CAN CGSB 32.312-2018: Organic Production Systems — Permitted Substances Lists
A comprehensive guide to the Canadian standard for organic input materials
The Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) standard CAN CGSB 32.312-2018, entitled ‘Organic Production Systems — Permitted Substances Lists’, is a cornerstone of Canada’s organic regulatory framework. It provides the authoritative listing of substances that may be used in organic crop production, animal husbandry, food processing, handling, and cleaning. The standard is designed to support the integrity of organic products by clearly delineating what is allowed and under what conditions, thereby enabling consistent certification decisions across the country.
Scope and Application
CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 applies to all operators seeking or maintaining organic certification under the Canada Organic Regime, including farmers, processors, handlers, and importers. The standard does not prescribe organic management practices themselves (those are covered by CAN/CGSB 32.31), but rather specifies the substances that are permissible in each category of organic production. It covers:
- Substances for soil fertility and crop production (Table 1)
- Substances for pest and disease control (Table 2)
- Substances for animal health and production (Table 3)
- Substances for food processing and handling (Table 4)
- Substances for cleaning and disinfection (Table 5)
The standard explicitly states that any substance not included in these lists is prohibited unless a formal derogation is granted by the certification body. This ‘permissive list’ approach ensures that organic operations rely on natural and minimally processed inputs, while allowing limited use of certain synthetic substances when no organic alternative exists.
Important: The 2018 edition supersedes previous versions. Operators must ensure they are using the correct edition and incorporate any amendments issued by the CGSB. Use of outdated lists may lead to non‑compliance during audits.
Technical Requirements: The Permitted Substances Lists
The core of the standard comprises five detailed tables that classify substances by use category. Each entry includes the substance name, source (natural, synthetic, or derived), and specific restrictions on its application. Below is a summary of the table structure and selected examples.
| Category | Table | Example Substances | Key Use Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil Fertility & Crop Production | 1 | Compost, rock phosphate, seaweed extracts, elemental sulfur | Must be mined or naturally derived; no synthetic additives; documentation of sourcing required. |
| Pest & Disease Control | 2 | Neem oil, copper compounds (fixed), Bacillus thuringiensis, potassium bicarbonate | Use only after preventive measures fail; limited to specific pathogens/pests; copper accumulation monitored. |
| Animal Health & Production | 3 | Probiotics, botanical remedies (garlic, oregano oil), approved vaccines | No antibiotics, hormones, or synthetic parasiticides; all substances must be from organic or natural sources where available. |
| Food Processing & Handling | 4 | Citric acid (non‑GMO), lecithin, enzymes (from non‑GMO microorganisms), sea salt | Synthetic processing aids (e.g., antifoaming agents) are limited; non‑GMO verification required. |
| Cleaning & Disinfection | 5 | Hydrogen peroxide, vinegar (acetic acid), ethanol, plant‑based soaps | Must not contaminate organic products; rinsing with potable water mandatory after use. |
Evaluation Criteria for Substances
The lists are based on a rigorous evaluation that considers:
- Natural origin: Preference for mined, botanical, or microbiologically derived materials.
- Environmental impact: Minimal persistence and toxicity.
- Human health: No unacceptable residues in final products.
- Necessity: The substance is essential for organic production or processing.
Each listed substance may have additional conditions, such as purity standards, maximum application rates, or documentation requirements. For example, copper is allowed for plant disease control but is restricted to a maximum of 6 kg/ha per year to limit soil accumulation.
Implementation and Compliance
CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 is referenced by the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) and is mandatory for all products that bear the Canada Organic logo or that are certified organic under a CFIA‑recognized body. Certification bodies must use this standard as the basis for approval of input materials.
Role of Certification Bodies
Conformity assessment bodies (certification bodies) verify that operators:
- Only use substances that appear in the applicable table.
- Adhere to any restrictions or conditions specified.
- Maintain records of all inputs, including supplier declarations and certificates of analysis.
Operators may apply for a temporary derogation if a permitted substance is not commercially available, but such exceptions are rare and tightly controlled.
Best Practice: Keep a current copy of CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 available at your facility. Many certification bodies also provide a summary list; however, the official standard is the definitive reference. Sign up for CGSB notifications to be informed of any amendments.
Compliance Advantage: Proper use of the permitted substances lists builds consumer trust and simplifies the certification process. A well‑maintained input inventory can reduce audit time and demonstrate your commitment to organic integrity.
Compliance Notes and Best Practices
Meeting the requirements of CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 demands careful attention to detail. The following points are critical for maintaining certification:
- Record Keeping: Maintain an up‑to‑date list of all inputs used. For each substance, record the brand name, supplier, batch number, concentration, date of application, and amount applied. These records must be available for review during inspections.
- Prohibited Substances: Even if a substance is not explicitly listed, it is considered prohibited. Operators should not assume a substance is acceptable because it is ‘natural’—always verify against the standard.
- Labeling: Products that are certified organic and use only permitted substances may bear the Canada Organic logo. If a non‑permitted substance is used (even unintentionally), the product cannot be sold as organic.
- Updates and Transition: When a new edition is published, the transition period is typically 12–18 months. Operators should upgrade their procedures within that window. The 2018 edition is still current as of 2026; always check for the latest version.
Warning: Use of a substance not listed in CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 can result in decertification, loss of organic status, and legal penalties. Always confirm with your certification body before introducing a new input.
Q: What is the difference between CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 and CAN/CGSB 32.31?
A: CAN/CGSB 32.31 covers the general principles and management standards for organic production (e.g., crop rotation, livestock living conditions). CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 is a supplementary standard that lists the specific substances that are permitted for use in organic operations. Both must be followed for certification.
A: CAN/CGSB 32.31 covers the general principles and management standards for organic production (e.g., crop rotation, livestock living conditions). CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 is a supplementary standard that lists the specific substances that are permitted for use in organic operations. Both must be followed for certification.
Q: How often is the Permitted Substances Lists updated?
A: The standard is revised periodically to reflect new scientific research, market availability, and changes in organic practices. The current edition was published in 2018. Any amendments or interim changes are posted on the CGSB website. Operators should check for updates at least annually.
A: The standard is revised periodically to reflect new scientific research, market availability, and changes in organic practices. The current edition was published in 2018. Any amendments or interim changes are posted on the CGSB website. Operators should check for updates at least annually.
Q: Can I use a synthetic substance if it is not listed?
A: Generally, no. Synthetic substances are assumed prohibited unless they appear on the lists. However, a certification body may grant a temporary derogation if the substance is essential and no organic alternative exists, but this is subject to strict conditions and must be requested before use.
A: Generally, no. Synthetic substances are assumed prohibited unless they appear on the lists. However, a certification body may grant a temporary derogation if the substance is essential and no organic alternative exists, but this is subject to strict conditions and must be requested before use.
Q: Who is required to comply with CAN CGSB 32.312-2018?
A: Any operator engaged in the production, processing, handling, or import of organic products that are intended to be sold as organic in Canada or exported under a Canadian organic certificate must comply. This includes all farms, processors, and traders certified under the Canada Organic Regime.
A: Any operator engaged in the production, processing, handling, or import of organic products that are intended to be sold as organic in Canada or exported under a Canadian organic certificate must comply. This includes all farms, processors, and traders certified under the Canada Organic Regime.
© 2026. This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or certification advice. Always refer to the official publication of CAN CGSB 32.312-2018 from the Canadian General Standards Board for the complete and authoritative requirements.