Consumers are demanding more from those who put food on their plates. They want to feel confident that the ingredients that nourish their bodies and their families are grown in the most environmentally sustainable way possible. Farmers and end users often struggle to find crops that are both sustainable and profitable.

Fortunately, farmers can grow winter wheat.

Western Canadian winter wheat is a sustainable crop that supports biodiversity and nesting habitat for ducks and other birds. Ducks Unlimited Canada’s research proves it. It’s a sustainable option that also makes good business sense to Canadian farms.

Traditionally in Western Canada, cereal crops and other grains are planted in the spring, but winter wheat is planted in the fall and stays cozy under a blanket of snow all winter long. This change in season is a shift in planning for many farmers, but it’s also perfect for nesting wildlife.

Winter wheat offers benefits to farmers in other ways, too. Winter wheat yields are often higher than spring wheat. Higher yields mean increased returns compared to other similar crops. Winter wheat also provides farmers with the flexibility to sell their product to different markets.

Together, we can all be leaders in sustainability.

Start by looking for the Habitat-Friendly Winter Wheat ecolabel on products in your grocery store or request that your grocer stocks more sustainable options. Know that when you buy a product with the winter wheat ecolabel, you are supporting local Canadian farmers and their efforts to put sustainable practices and our environment first.