Organic food

Is organic food CRA eligible in Canada?

No. Organic food is not a CRA eligible medical expense. The CRA does not recognize the incremental cost of organic food as an eligible expense under the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC), and organic food is not listed in any eligible category under subsection 118.2(2) of the Income Tax Act. This applies regardless of whether the food is purchased for general health reasons or on the advice of a health practitioner.

This is distinct from gluten-free food products, which have a specific and limited provision under the Income Tax Act for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance — but even that provision covers only the incremental cost above comparable non-gluten-free products, not the full purchase price.

What Does Not Qualify

• Organic produce, dairy, meat, or packaged food purchased for general health or wellness
• Organic supplements or health foods without a specific medical prescription
• Grocery costs for an organic diet chosen for preference rather than a medically diagnosed condition

Frequently Asked Questions

Is organic food CRA eligible?

No. The CRA does not recognize organic food as an eligible medical expense under subsection 118.2(2).

Can I claim organic food through my HSA?

No. Organic food is not an eligible medical expense and cannot be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account.

What about gluten-free food — is that different?

Yes. The CRA has a specific provision for the incremental cost of gluten-free food for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Organic food does not have an equivalent provision.

Source

Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Gluten-free food".