Category Archives: Agriculture, Agri-Food & Value Chains

Insights into sustainable farming, food systems, and the complex networks that connect producers to consumers. These posts explore agricultural policy, local and global value chains, food sovereignty, and the evolving role of innovation in ensuring resilient, equitable, and environmentally sound agri-food systems.

Sowing Wild: Embracing Chaos Gardening in a Canadian Raised Bed

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This spring, I’m trying something new, or perhaps, it’s something very old. I’m giving two of my 3’ x 8’ raised beds over to chaos. Not to neglect, but to intelligent disorder, a conscious step away from the regimented rows and into the wild wisdom of nature.

I’ve spent years designing gardens around principles of companion planting, guilds, crop rotation, and soil stewardship. These tools work, no doubt, but nature doesn’t plant in rows. She scatters. She layers. She invites diversity, and lets the strongest, most adaptive life flourish. And so, inspired by that, I’m preparing a chaos garden.

Here’s the plan: I’ve gathered a mixed jar of seed: vegetables, herbs, flowers, and a few rogue wild edibles that I’ve saved or collected over the years. Into it go radish, arugula, calendula, dill, kale, turnip, nasturtium, peas, and fennel. Some mustard for early leaves, some poppy for beauty, some chard for colour. Even a few tomato and squash seeds, just to see who wins the race.

I’ll loosen the soil, adding compost and manure, broadcast the mix by hand, rake it in gently, and water deeply. No rows. No labels. Just biodiversity in motion.

This kind of growing goes by many names: scatter planting, chaos gardening, even seed bombing when done guerrilla-style, but under the surface, it shares DNA with deeper systems thinking. It’s a living expression of polyculture, multiple species growing together in dynamic balance. It echoes permaculture’s ethic of cooperation with natural systems, and it sets the stage for self-seeding gardens, where plants aren’t just harvested, they’re invited to return.

Why do this?

First, because diversity builds resilience. Different plants fill different niches. Deep roots break soil; shallow roots hold moisture. Nitrogen fixers support leafy greens. Leafy greens shade the soil. Flowering herbs call in predators that keep pests in check.

Second, because it discourages monoculture pests and weeds. If you can’t find a pattern, neither can the cabbage moth.

Third, because it invites observation. I don’t know what will thrive, but I know I’ll learn something from what does.

And finally, because it’s joyful. There’s a delight in surprise, in watching an ecosystem unfold in real time, unbound by our expectations.

I won’t intervene much. I’ll harvest what’s ready, let the rest go to seed, and see what returns next year. My role is less conductor, more steward. Less controller, more curious partner.

I still have my perennial fruit and vegetables scattered across the hobby farm using permaculture layers, so I won’t be going hungry if the chaos fails to produce. 

In a world obsessed with order and output, these little beds will be a place of play, experimentation, and ecological trust. A microcosm of what happens when we let go, just a bit, and let the land speak back.

If you’re curious about trying this yourself, start small. Choose a bed or even a large container. Use what you have, and most of all, resist the urge to overthink it. Nature knows what to do.

This is the season I choose to sow chaos. I suspect it will be the most ordered thing I grow.

Here’s a curated list of vegetable, herb, and edible flower seeds well-suited for chaos planting in Canadian Hardiness Zone 5. These plants are generally fast-growing, cold-tolerant, or self-seeding—and they don’t mind a little competition.

Leafy Greens (Cut-and-Come-Again, Fast Growers)
These thrive in early spring/fall and often reseed:
• Arugula – spicy, fast to mature, great for pollinators when it flowers
• Lettuce (mixed looseleaf varieties) – tolerates partial shade, quick to sprout
• Mustard Greens – bold flavor, early spring/fall performer
• Tatsoi – cold-hardy Asian green, forms a rosette
• Mizuna – feathery leaves, handles crowding well
• Spinach – plant early; loves cool weather

Root Crops
These do surprisingly well when thinned during harvest:
• Radish – very fast, natural “row marker” and soil loosener
• Carrots – mix different colours/sizes for variety
• Turnip – dual-purpose (roots + greens)
• Beets – harvest baby greens or mature roots
• Rutabaga – slower to mature, tolerates cooler temps

Legumes (Nitrogen Fixers)
Support other plants and create vertical interest:
• Peas (sugar snap or shelling) – sow early, great for trellises or natural climbing
• Fava Beans – cold-tolerant and nitrogen-rich
• Bush Beans – not too tall, easy to scatter

Cabbage Family (Brassicas)
Pest-prone in rows, but thrive in mixed beds:
• Kale – resilient, frost-tolerant, often overwinters or self-seeds
• Pak Choi – fast-maturing and shade-tolerant
• Broccoli Raab – leafy with small florets, matures quickly
• Mustard – doubles as a trap crop for flea beetles

Herbs (Pollinator Magnets & Companion Plants)
They support insect diversity and natural pest control:
• Dill – attracts ladybugs and beneficial wasps
• Cilantro – bolts quickly, great for early pollinators
• Parsley – slower growing, useful kitchen herb
• Chervil – good for shade and cool conditions

Edible Flowers (Beauty + Function)
These help deter pests and support pollinators:
• Calendula – self-seeds easily, blooms early and long
• Nasturtiums – edible leaves and flowers, acts as aphid trap crop
• Borage – self-seeds readily, attracts bees
• Violas – small, edible blooms for salads

Others for Experimentation
A few crops that might surprise you:
• Swiss Chard – colourful, resilient, good for succession
• Zucchini or Pattypan Squash – use only a few seeds; they get large
• Cherry Tomatoes – some may thrive if your season is long enough
• Onions (green onions from seed) – slow, but good in dense plantings

Tips for Success in Zone 5 Chaos Planting
• Sow early in spring (as soon as the soil is workable)
• Choose cold-hardy or short-season varieties (mature in 50–70 days)
• Water evenly after sowing, then mulch lightly to retain moisture
• Harvest regularly and thin as needed, using what’s edible

Identity, Governance, and Privacy: The Controversy Over National IDs

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The question of whether governments should mandate compulsory citizen photo identification is a complex one, balancing concerns over security, efficiency, privacy, and civil liberties. Proponents argue that such a system strengthens national security by reducing identity fraud, streamlining public services, and ensuring greater integrity in processes such as voting and law enforcement. Opponents, however, raise concerns about privacy risks, potential discrimination, and the financial and administrative burdens associated with implementation.

One of the strongest arguments in favor of compulsory identification is its role in preventing fraud and enhancing security. A standardized ID system makes it easier to verify identities in a wide range of scenarios, from accessing government benefits to conducting financial transactions. Proponents argue that this not only reduces the risk of identity theft but also ensures that public services reach their intended recipients without duplication or misuse. In the realm of law enforcement, such a system can help police quickly verify identities, track criminals, and even assist in locating missing persons. A national ID could also facilitate international travel within certain regions and improve border security by preventing unauthorized entries.

From a governance perspective, a universal identification system can improve the efficiency of public administration. Countries with well-integrated ID systems often experience fewer bureaucratic hurdles in service delivery, whether in healthcare, taxation, or social welfare. Standardizing identity verification can also strengthen the electoral process by reducing the potential for voter fraud and ensuring that only eligible citizens participate. Advocates suggest that, in an increasingly digital world, a government-issued ID could serve as a foundational tool for secure online verification, further modernizing access to services.

Concerns about privacy and government overreach remain central to opposition arguments. Critics warn that a compulsory ID system could expand state surveillance, allowing authorities to track individuals in ways that may infringe on civil liberties. The centralization of personal data also raises the risk of misuse, whether through state overreach or cyberattacks that compromise sensitive information. Given the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, a national ID database could become a high-value target for hackers, putting millions of people at risk of identity fraud.

Social equity is another significant concern. Some populations, including the homeless, elderly, and marginalized communities, may face barriers in obtaining and maintaining identification, potentially excluding them from essential services. If not carefully designed, an ID requirement could reinforce systemic inequities, disproportionately affecting those who already struggle with bureaucratic processes. Additionally, there is a risk of such a system being used to justify racial profiling or discrimination, particularly in law enforcement contexts.

Beyond ethical considerations, the financial cost of implementing and maintaining a compulsory ID program is substantial. Governments would need to invest in secure infrastructure, database management, and ongoing monitoring to prevent fraud or duplication. Citizens might also bear financial burdens in obtaining and renewing their identification, making it a potential source of economic hardship for some. Critics argue that as digital identification methods become more sophisticated, traditional photo IDs may soon become obsolete, making such an investment unnecessary.

The debate over compulsory citizen photo identification ultimately hinges on whether the benefits of security and efficiency outweigh the risks to privacy, civil liberties, and social equity. Any government considering such a system would need to address these concerns through clear legal safeguards, accessible implementation strategies, and a careful assessment of technological advancements. While a well-designed ID system could offer significant advantages, it must be developed in a way that protects citizens’ rights and ensures broad inclusivity.

Urban Agriculture: A Practical Solution for Food Security in Uncertain Times

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While I am extremely fortunate to live on a small hobby farm, I started learning about growing my own food as a pre-teen living in an apartment with a concrete yard using containers. My grandparents lived on a half acre with a greenhouse and cold frames, and this expanded my learning opportunities until I could get my own space.  Wherever I have settled in the world, I have grow some level of my food, whether it’s been window sill herb gardens, raised beds on a small city lot, or a few acres of orchards, perennial fruit and veg, with rows of annual harvests. 

There was a time when backyard gardening was seen as a hobby, something for retirees with time on their hands, or for children learning about where their food comes from, but in recent years, urban agriculture has become much more than a pastime. As food prices continue to rise and supply chains face disruptions, more people are turning whatever outdoor space they have – balconies, patios, backyards, and even front lawns – into productive gardens. The shift isn’t just about saving money; it’s about taking control of food security in an increasingly uncertain world.

The past few years have revealed vulnerabilities in the global food system. The pandemic exposed just how fragile supply chains can be, with empty grocery store shelves becoming a common sight. At the same time, extreme weather events linked to climate change have devastated farmland, reducing crop yields and further driving up prices. For many families, fresh, nutritious food has become harder to afford. The solution, in part, lies closer to home. Urban agriculture, even on a small scale, can help reduce dependence on imported produce while ensuring access to healthy food.

One of the biggest misconceptions about growing food is that it requires a large plot of land. In reality, a surprising amount can be harvested from small spaces. Balconies and patios can support potted herbs, tomatoes, and peppers. Small backyards can accommodate raised beds, which improve soil quality and provide better growing conditions. In denser urban areas, community gardens have emerged as a way for neighbors to grow food together, share resources, and build a sense of connection. Some residents are even experimenting with hydroponic systems, allowing them to grow fresh greens indoors year-round.

Beyond the personal benefits, urban agriculture plays a vital role in strengthening communities. When people grow food together, they build relationships and foster a shared sense of responsibility for local food production. Many community gardens serve as educational spaces where people learn about sustainability, organic farming techniques, and seasonal eating. Some initiatives even donate surplus produce to local food banks, ensuring that those in need have access to fresh, healthy food.

The environmental benefits are equally compelling. Green spaces in urban areas help reduce heat, mitigate stormwater runoff, and provide much-needed habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Growing food locally also reduces the environmental impact of transportation, cutting down on emissions associated with long-distance shipping.

While urban agriculture isn’t a replacement for large-scale farming, it is an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to food resilience. As more people recognize the value of growing their own food – whether for economic reasons, environmental concerns, or simply the satisfaction of harvesting something fresh from their own backyard – cities are beginning to adapt. Local governments are easing zoning restrictions, supporting community garden initiatives, and encouraging green infrastructure.

The future of food may be more localized than ever before. Urban agriculture is proving that solutions don’t have to come from massive farms or distant suppliers. Sometimes, they start with a single tomato plant growing just outside the door.

BRICS Rising: The Challenge to Western Dominance in a Multipolar World

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BRICS has evolved from an economic alliance into a geopolitical force challenging Western dominance. Originally conceived as a framework for cooperation among emerging markets, the bloc now pursues a strategic agenda that threatens the global order long shaped by Europe and North America. By fostering economic interdependence, promoting financial independence, and expanding its diplomatic influence, BRICS is positioning itself as a counterweight to Western-led institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and NATO. Its rise signals a shift toward a multipolar world where U.S. and European dominance is no longer assured.

At the core of BRICS’ strategy is economic cooperation aimed at reducing reliance on Western markets and financial institutions. Trade agreements and joint investment projects among Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa strengthen internal resilience while offering developing nations an alternative to the West’s economic model. The New Development Bank (NDB) plays a key role, financing infrastructure and sustainability projects without the political conditions often attached to Western aid. This economic realignment is further reinforced by BRICS’ push to de-dollarize global trade, insulating its members from U.S. financial influence and sanctions. By increasing the use of local currencies and developing alternatives to SWIFT, BRICS is actively undermining the dollar’s global dominance. If oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia shift toward BRICS’ financial system, the petrodollar system could face serious disruption, weakening the U.S. economy and limiting Washington’s ability to leverage economic power as a foreign policy tool.

For Europe, BRICS represents a different kind of challenge. While not as dependent on the dollar, the EU’s economic model relies on stable access to global markets, raw materials, and energy. BRICS’ growing control over critical resources—such as rare earth minerals, oil, and food supplies—poses risks to European industry. Russia and China have already demonstrated a willingness to use trade as a geopolitical weapon, and as BRICS strengthens its economic ties, European access to these resources could become more costly and politically conditional. Additionally, BRICS’ growing influence in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East threatens Europe’s traditional soft power approach in these regions. By providing loans and investments without Western-style conditions, BRICS is offering an appealing alternative to nations wary of IMF-imposed austerity. This shift weakens Europe’s ability to shape international policies and erodes its influence in regions it has long considered strategic.

Beyond economics, BRICS is reshaping global diplomacy by advocating for a multipolar world. The bloc frequently aligns its positions in the UN, G20, and WTO, pushing for reforms that reduce Western dominance. By expanding its membership to include emerging economies across the Global South, BRICS is creating a parallel alliance network that enables countries to resist Western pressure. The potential inclusion of Iran and other anti-Western regimes raises concerns about a new axis of influence that could counterbalance NATO and other Western-led security alliances. While BRICS is not yet a military pact, growing defense cooperation—particularly between Russia and China—suggests that security coordination could become more structured over time.

Technology is another battleground where BRICS threatens Western leadership. China and India are emerging as global tech powerhouses, while Russia excels in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. If BRICS nations successfully develop independent digital ecosystems—ranging from payment systems to semiconductor industries—Western tech companies may lose access to key markets. The push for BRICS-led internet infrastructure could also fragment global digital governance, reducing the West’s ability to shape online policies and monitor cyber threats. Meanwhile, BRICS’ emphasis on state sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs provides an ideological alternative to the Western model of governance. As more nations align with this approach, the ability of the U.S. and Europe to promote democracy, human rights, and free-market policies could diminish.

BRICS is not just an economic alliance, but a structural challenge to the Western-led world order. By advancing financial independence, expanding geopolitical influence, and fostering technological self-sufficiency, the bloc is steadily eroding the dominance of Western institutions. While internal divisions and logistical hurdles remain, BRICS’ trajectory suggests that Europe and North America must adapt to a world where their influence is no longer guaranteed. Whether the West engages with BRICS on more equal terms or resists and risks further global fragmentation will determine the shape of international relations in the years to come.  

A New Social Democratic Mandate for Ontario

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As we are deep into the February 2025 Ontario election, I thought I might share my vision for the province, which might just be a little wide of traditional thinking for this part of North America, but would help rebalance the out of control neoliberal free-market capitalism we have today. 

I personally don’t feel that the New Democratic Party (NDP) is far enough to the left, as it makes too many compromises in order to attract centralist voters, whereas the Democratic Socialists of Canada (DSC) are uncompromising idealists, and politically ineffective. I fall somewhere in between these two parties, taking the best of both, and hopefully crafting a strategic message that’s attractive to others.  

Vision
The vision for Ontario is one of prosperity and equity, placing the well-being of its citizens at the forefront. This vision emphasizes robust investments in education, social programs, healthcare, and economic infrastructure to foster sustainable growth. The goal is to empower small and medium-sized communities, easing the burden on overpopulated urban centers and promoting regional equity, ensuring that all Ontarians benefit from the province’s future.

Core Pillars of the Mandate
The mandate is built upon five core pillars, each aimed at creating a more inclusive, prosperous Ontario. These pillars are focused on empowering citizens through education, improving community well-being, ensuring healthcare accessibility, fostering economic resilience, and promoting decentralized urban planning.

Education for Empowerment
A commitment to universal access to high-quality education is foundational. The focus will be on equipping Ontarians with the skills necessary for a modern, equitable economy. This will be achieved by expanding public education funding, particularly in smaller and medium-sized communities, ensuring that schools have access to modern facilities, resources, and technology. To make post-secondary education more accessible, tuition fees will be capped, grants increased, and debt forgiveness programs introduced for students who work in underserved areas. Moreover, lifelong learning programs will be developed to offer free or subsidized adult education and skills-training in emerging industries such as green energy and trades.

Social Equity and Community Well-Being
The goal is to build a society that is inclusive and supportive of its most vulnerable populations. Prioritizing affordable housing development in smaller communities will ensure that these areas remain accessible and livable. In addition, social safety nets such as universal childcare, guaranteed basic income pilots, and targeted support for Indigenous, rural, and marginalized communities will be strengthened. Public transit systems will also be expanded in smaller communities to reduce isolation and promote economic integration, ensuring better access to resources and opportunities for all.

Healthcare Accessibility and Innovation
Comprehensive healthcare that is accessible to all Ontarians is central to the mandate. Efforts will focus on strengthening local healthcare systems, particularly in smaller communities. By decentralizing healthcare services, the government will build and expand hospitals, clinics, and mental health centers, ensuring that these communities are well-served. Recruitment incentives for healthcare professionals will encourage doctors, nurses, and allied health workers to settle in underserved areas. Additionally, long-term care will be reformed, transitioning to fully public and community-centered models to ensure seniors receive care with dignity.

Economic Resilience and Green Growth
The mandate aims to promote sustainable economic growth through targeted investments in local industries and green initiatives. Creating tax incentives and grants for businesses to establish operations in smaller communities will be key to developing these regions economically. Expanding rural broadband to guarantee high-speed internet access will empower remote work, education, and commerce. Support for green industries, including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and low-emission manufacturing, will help these smaller regions thrive while contributing to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, worker-focused policies such as a $20/hour minimum wage, strong union protections, and expanded benefits like paid sick leave will ensure fair wages and working conditions across Ontario.

Decentralized Urban Planning
Shifting the focus from overburdened urban centers to smaller communities is a central part of the vision. Population redistribution strategies will provide tax benefits and relocation assistance for families and businesses moving to smaller towns. This will be complemented by investments in local infrastructure to improve water, energy, and transportation systems, making these communities more attractive for growth. Moreover, smart city planning will prioritize environmentally conscious and community-driven urban development, curbing urban sprawl and preserving green spaces.

Accountability Framework
To ensure the success of these initiatives, an accountability framework will be established. Regional citizens’ assemblies will guide local development, providing a channel for community input and ensuring government responsiveness. Transparent reporting will be maintained, with annual progress reports on education, healthcare, and economic initiatives. Regular equity audits will be conducted to ensure that the benefits of these programs are distributed fairly across rural, Indigenous, and urban populations.

Conclusion
The transformative changes outlined in this mandate will be funded through a progressive taxation system. The wealthiest individuals and corporations will contribute their fair share, while tax loopholes and corporate subsidies will be minimized, redirecting billions toward public investments. A modest increase in taxes on luxury goods, high-value real estate, and environmentally harmful industries will also generate revenue while promoting sustainability. Additionally, funding from inefficient urban sprawl projects will be reallocated to support investments in smaller communities. By partnering with federal programs and green investment funds, the province will secure additional resources for vital infrastructure, education, and healthcare reforms, ensuring fiscal responsibility while driving long-term economic growth.

This vision for Ontario is rooted in social democracy, seeking to build a fair, inclusive, and sustainable province by addressing the needs of all its citizens. By prioritizing smaller communities and strengthening public infrastructure, it aims to balance equity with opportunity, ensuring that no one is left behind in Ontario’s future.

Any takers? 

Made in Canada: Leveraging Transparency to Strengthen and Grow the Economy

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As a business consultant, I spent nearly two years managing the Canadian multi-livestock traceability project office in response to the BSE “mad cow” outbreak. Later, I became the first General Manager of the Canadian Livestock Identification Agency, helping to expand this approach nationally, and then with the aid of federal funding, pushed into Latin America,. What became clear was the transformative power of full value chain traceability. It not only opens doors to new markets, but also helps countries differentiate their products, and navigate technical and political trade barriers like tariffs.

For Canadian retailers and manufacturers, U.S. tariffs have long created challenges—raising costs, shrinking margins, and destabilizing cross-border trade. But technology offers a way to turn these obstacles into opportunities. Imagine a system where every Canadian product carries a scannable code revealing its value chain, from sourcing to production and even its environmental footprint. This transparency wouldn’t just empower consumers—it would give Canadian products a competitive edge by showcasing their quality, sustainability, and tariff-free origins.

Traceability technology, backed by blockchain, makes this vision possible. By assigning every product a unique QR code or barcode, manufacturers could provide consumers with instant access to detailed information. A quick scan might show that a product was made in Canada, outline ethical practices in its supply chain, and even display its carbon footprint. Such transparency doesn’t just satisfy curiosity—it allows consumers to align purchases with their values, all while supporting the Canadian economy.

Blockchain adds an essential layer of trust to this system. Unlike traditional databases, blockchain technology is inherently secure, creating an unchangeable record of every step in a product’s journey. From raw materials in British Columbia to manufacturing in Ontario, each stage is logged and verified. In an age where consumers demand proof of sustainability and ethical practices, blockchain offers the credibility that builds trust and eliminates doubt.

For shoppers, the benefits of this system are clear. It provides a powerful tool for identifying Canadian-made goods, particularly in tariff-sensitive sectors like food, textiles, and electronics. When trade restrictions drive prices higher, consumers could actively choose local, tariff-free products, keeping money in Canada while avoiding inflated costs. Retailers, in turn, could spotlight these products as premium, ethical choices, differentiating them from imports.

From a business perspective, adopting traceability technology is more than a tool for compliance—it’s a way to build brand loyalty. Shoppers are more likely to trust and return to brands that are transparent about their supply chains. Companies investing in traceability could also attract eco-conscious and ethically driven consumers, both domestically and internationally, creating new opportunities to expand market share.

This technology is real today, and ready to use. Japan has been a pioneer in retail traceability, leveraging advanced technology to ensure transparency and quality in its supply chains. From QR codes on produce that detail farm origins to blockchain systems tracking seafood to combat fraud, Japan’s focus on traceability reflects its commitment to consumer trust, food safety, and sustainable practices.

The Canadian government has a role to play in fostering this transformation. Policymakers could accelerate adoption through regulations requiring supply chain transparency, and by offering tax incentives to early adopters. Public campaigns could educate consumers about the benefits of traceability, while certification programs could establish recognizable “Made in Canada” labels, further encouraging local pride and support.

While small businesses may face challenges in adopting this technology, such as costs and competition concerns, these barriers can be addressed through subsidies, partnerships, and thoughtful frameworks. By striking a balance between transparency and proprietary protections, Canada can ensure accessibility while preserving competitive advantages.

This system isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about redefining how Canadians shop and consume. Traceability technology positions Canada as a leader in ethical, sustainable retail practices. It empowers consumers with unprecedented insight into the products they buy, while strengthening the economy through local innovation and production.

Ultimately, this approach reinforces what makes Canadian products stand out. Whether it’s sustainability, fair labor practices, or national pride, traceability ensures that “Made in Canada” is more than just a label—it’s a commitment to quality, transparency, and trust.

We Need to Update the Ontario Cider Regulations

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I thoroughly enjoy a good glass of cider, and while I am open to exploring the unknown, I do prefer to imbibe drier beverages, yet I have learned that marketing labels do nothing to differentiate these alcoholic products. The word ‘Dry’ on a can of cider is currently meaningless in Ontario, and the amber liquid contained within can have any amount of sweetness. 

Ontario’s cider industry has seen significant growth in recent years, reflecting an increasing interest among consumers. By 2030, the Ontario Craft Cider Association (OCCA) aims to increase production from the current 6 million to 30 million liters annually, with a projected economic impact of $115 million and the creation of 1,720 jobs. As more Ontarians turn to craft cider, consumers are pushing for greater transparency on what’s inside their favorite cans.

By mandating the inclusion of grams per liter (g/l) sugar content on cider labels, consumers gain valuable insights into the flavor profiles of different ciders. This information allows individuals to select beverages that align with their taste preferences, whether they prefer a drier, more tart cider or one with a sweeter, fruitier profile. Wine sold in Ontario already includes sugar content in the g/l format so with this precedent, all we need is an update to the current provincial labeling regulations. 

Promoting product transparency, while supporting branding efforts, sugar content labeling contributes to the continued growth and diversification of Ontario’s vibrant cider industry.

Sources.
https://thegrower.org/news/ontario-craft-cider-industry-looks-bright-future