Who doesn’t like something sweet? Yet more and more people, when they think of indulging, also consider potential health and environmental implications. Among Canada’s conscious consumers are those seeking out products with the Canada Organic logo. Canada Organic Trade Association data shows that this is a rapidly growing consumer segment, with 66 per cent of Canadians purchasing some organic products every week.
“To keep up with growing consumer demand, Lantic Inc. has a number of organic and Fairtrade products,” says Jinny Lok, director of marketing at Lantic Inc., a Canadian sweetener company that has been in business for over 125 years. “In addition to conventional sugars and sweeteners, we offer organic sugar, Fairtrade sugar, organic coconut sugar, organic maple syrup and maple products.”
A product that received an enthusiastic response is Lantic Inc.’s organic coconut sugar, which was voted consumers’ 2017 winner in the sugar category. In addition, coconut sugar was named the most sustainable sweetener in the world by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
“According to the FAO, coconut trees can survive in damaged soil and actually restore the surrounding environment,” explains Ms. Lok. “They are impervious to drought conditions and can continue to produce their nectar in harsh conditions. The coconut trees we use are organically grown, without the use of synthetically produced fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides or herbicides – and they benefit the surrounding ecosystems.
“Coconut sugar has been used as a traditional sweetener for thousands of years in South and Southeast Asia,” says Ms. Lok. “Our delightful coconut sugar is made from the nectar of organically grown coconut palm tree flowers.”
Consisting of dehydrated coconut flower sap, Lantic Inc.’s coconut sugar is 100 per cent natural, does not contain any artificial flavours or preservatives, and is not chemically altered in any way, Ms. Lok says. “It also contains a number of key vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, such as potassium, zinc, iron and vitamins B. With its rich caramel note, it tastes wonderful in baked goods, coffee or tea, and is especially delicious in chocolate desserts and Asian dishes.”
In short, it’s a product that is not only good for us – its production has a high potential for affording the farmers a better quality life while creating a net benefit to their surrounding environment, she adds.
Ms. Lok believes “accessibility is key to driving demand for organic products, both in terms of price and availability,” she says. “We offer organic products that are shelved on the baking aisle along with other sugar and sweetener products, which makes it easy for consumers to consider the alternatives.”
As Canadians are heading into Organic Week, Ms. Lok suggests we take the opportunity to “show our support and ask questions about our purchases.”
Advertising feature produced by Globe Content Studio. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.