Eating locally and organically may still be seen as a trend, but many people view it as a movement that is here to stay.
Local, organic and specialty are key buzzwords, but other words like humane, ethical, cage-free and free-range are popping up in food related conversations. With so many buzzwords out there, it can be difficult to know exactly what you're purchasing, but the BC SPCA has come up with a labelling system to take the guesswork out of ethical shopping.
Labelling of food items with the "SPCA certified" logo assures consumers the products they're purchasing adhere to science-based standards of animal welfare. In addition to the products being humanely raised, they are also locally sourced. Certified products include beef, pork, chicken, eggs and artisan cheese. The red barn logo, placed on the product's packaging, is easily identifiable.
SPCA-certified products that are available on the Sunshine Coast are in high demand.
Neil Clayton, owner of Claytons Heritage Market in Sechelt, said the SPCA certified eggs are very popular. Some customers have even told him how important they feel the labelling is.
Bob Hoy, manager of Gibsons MarketPlace IGA, echoed the same sentiment. He said the products are flying off the shelves.
The innovative certification program was launched in 2002. Farms voluntarily participate in the program and are regularly evaluated by a third party to ensure compliance. The certification has gained great momentum in both B.C. and Alberta.
While the current availability of products is limited on the Sunshine Coast, the demand is growing and steps are being taken to provide more items to consumers.
Gillian Bra-dy, a Sunshine Coast SPCA member and volunteer, is passionate about animal welfare and is making the effort to educate consumers on humanely raised products. To encourage local farmers to join the program, Brady is offering to cover the financial cost of the first two farmers, who qualify for certification, to contact her.
"I just thought it would be a way to get the ball rolling," said Brady of her generous offer.
"The local retailers are so keen. They've said, 'yes, we have customers wanting ethical foods.' Now it's just trying to get more here."
For more information on the SPCA certified label, visit www.spca.bc.ca. For information on qualifying for certification, contact the SPCA Sunshine Coast Branch at 604-740-0301.
