Minister Touts Organic Labelling Of Wild Rice

Minister Touts Organic Labelling Of Wild Rice

Wednesday, October 03, 2007 at 13:55

 

 

The provincial secretary for organic agriculture says he would like to see organic labels slapped on all of Saskatchewan’s exports of wild rice.

 

Lon Borgerson says the move would differentiate our product from crops grown in the United States, and would let the public know that northern Saskatchewan wild rice is chemical-free.

 

Borgerson contends some American farmers are erecting man-made marshes, growing rice, and then using chemicals to treat them.

 

He also says they’re able to sell their product cheaper.

 

He fears the American expansion into the wild rice industry could hurt the reputation of Saskatchewan producers if consumers can’t tell the difference between the products.

 

Borgerson recently tabled a report calling for more promotion of the organic industry.

 

One of his recommendations is that the government help cover the cost of certification for producers.

 

He also says the province as a whole must do more to promote its organic industry within Saskatchewan.

 

Borgerson notes we export 80 to 90 per cent of what we grow, but we also import 80 to 90 per cent of what we eat –- something he says doesn’t make sense.