The Story Behind Our Canadian Grown Oats
The term “organic” often evokes images of lush green fields, abundant crops, and rich soil, which is correct. However, at One Degree Organics, we also view the word “organic” through the lens of hard work, unwavering commitment, and a deep passion for working with nature.
We understand that achieving transparency in our food systems can be challenging, yet we are dedicated to making it happen. Every farm we visit deepens our commitment to quality, sustainability, and toxin-free food, making us proud of every ingredient we source.
Recently, we flew back to Northern Alberta to visit some of the incredible oat farmers we work with, and what an unforgettable experience it was!
This beautiful region of Canada is renowned for producing some of the best oats in the world and walking through the picturesque golden-brown fields just before harvest season reminded us of the care and dedication our farmers invest in every crop.
Image: Map of our oat farmers in Alberta, Canada.
Join us on a journey through our recent visit as we share the inspiring stories from our oat farmers and reveal why growing organic goes far beyond simply offering clean ingredients.
Our Journey to The Farms
Upon landing in Alberta, we were met by strong northern winds, which added to the charm of this beautiful part of Canada. The breathtaking landscapes were the view of the five-hour drive to the crop-filled farms that would soon become the backdrop of our story.
Our first stop was the family-owned farm of Peter Wiebe, where the sense of family and community was immediately palpable. We were welcomed into his home and given a personal tour of the property. Peter demonstrated his innovative techniques for using equipment to manage crops, effectively controlling weeds without harming the plants or the soil. This was just one of many insights we gained about plant-based farming during our very first visit.
Image: Stan (left) & Peter Wiebe (right) discussing the oat harvest.
Next, we had the privilege of visiting Ernest Peters’ farm. Ernest and his wife are dedicated parents to two young children, and he is eager to share his knowledge and passion for organic farming with them as they age. Ernest is a young, hardworking individual committed to providing grains free from toxins and chemicals. His motivation goes beyond simply caring about what goes into your breakfast bowl. It’s a passion for learning how to work with nature to grow the best nutrient-rich grains.
Image: Ernest Peters, his wife & their two young kids (top). Kathy & Alonna with the farm cats (bottom left). Ernest holding his son while walking with Stan & showing him his farm (bottom right).
Day 2 led us to the Rabiey family farm, where Brad and Rebecca, along with their two sons, warmly welcomed us. The farm, is cultivated organically, and our visit, coupled with a welcoming lunch of homemade soup, reminded us of the vital connection between the families behind our food and the importance of their stories.
Image: Brad & Rebecca with their two kids (top). The Rabiey farm (bottom left). Brad & his dad speaking to Stan about their farm (bottom right).
Brad’s parents were at the family farm when we visited. His dad grew up on this farm, so it’s safe to say that both Brad and his dad know every part of it like the back of their hands. Brad’s dad farmed alongside his dad on the same land that Brad and his children continue the farming legacy. That makes three generations of farming and counting.
We then paid a visit to Michael Scott’s farm. Originally hailing from Scotland, Michael settled in Northern Alberta as a young adult to pursue farming. What struck us about Michael was his deep commitment to soil health. Upon our arrival, he was not harvesting oats; instead, he was diligently preparing the land for the upcoming season by working cover crops into the ground to improve the soil health. He understood that cultivating a healthy crop requires first nurturing the soil.
Michael shares that farming is what motivates him to start each day. He notes that the most challenging aspect of growing organic crops is dealing with weeds, as he doesn’t use chemicals that are commonly applied on conventional farms to control them. While organic farming requires more effort, Michael is always eager to learn and expand his knowledge as a farmer.
Image: Our oat farm partner, Michael Scott (top). The machine Michael uses to harvest his crop (bottom left). Michael’s farm (bottom left).
On Day 3, we had the opportunity to spend time with David Friesen, his son, and his farming partner, Peter Lundgard. Their partnership and shared knowledge stood out as invaluable assets in the world of organic farming. Despite the relentless winds that day, David’s sons worked tirelessly to harvest and bag the oats.
Image: David Friesen, his son & farming partner, Peter Lundgard (top). The oats being harvested on David’s farm (bottom left.) The soil & oat crops of the farm (bottom right).
Our final visit was with Herman Friesen and his son. Herman has dedicated many years to farming alongside his family, and he took the time to walk us through one of his fields, explaining that weeds are a natural aspect of organic farming. For Herman, oats are not only vital for his livelihood but also a staple in his household. He expressed great enthusiasm at the prospect of seeing the One Degree Organics packaging that would carry his oats to our consumers.
Image: Herman Friesen & his son (top). Herman holding an oat from his crop. (bottom left). Oats grown on Herman’s farm (bottom right).
The sight of these sprawling fields evoked a deep nostalgia for Kathy, who described this trip as especially meaningful as they passed through the areas where her mom grew up. She enjoyed being there with her family- it made her fall even more in love with this part of the world
Going Beyond Farm-to-Table
At One Degree, acquiring organic oats goes beyond a simple commodity transaction; it begins with the meaningful relationships we cultivate with our farmers. When people ask us about the secret behind our quality oats, we confidently attribute the excellence of our gluten-free oats to the strong partnerships we develop from the onset with our farmers
Discussing organic farming is one thing, but walking through the fields alongside these dedicated farmers reveals the remarkable craft of growing organic grains. Such farm visits, along with all our other farm trips, have deepened our appreciation for the dedication required in organic farming.
Each farmer we met emphasized the health of the soil and the superior yields of organic crops compared to conventional ones. For Brad, convincing his father to transition to organic farming was a pivotal moment in their journey. There is a shared commitment to creating food that is not only safe to eat but also healthy for the environment—an ethos that resonates deeply
Image: (left to right) Alonna, Stan & Kathy Smith, Rebecca, Brad Rabiey & their two kids.
Kathy describes her visit to Brad and Rebecca’s beautiful farm as truly inspiring. Listening to their journey from conventional farming to organic—sparked by the thought, “If we don’t spray our home garden, then why are we spraying chemicals on our farm?”—was incredibly moving. The history of their great-grandfather and his wife settling on this land many years ago, in a still-standing old house, added another layer of warmth to the experience.
In Kathy’s own words, “At each farm, the stories were unique, yet they shared a common thread: a profound love for the land and its soil, along with a commitment to working in harmony with nature. I loved seeing the farmers’ excitement, knowing that they would soon enjoy One Degree Organics oatmeal made from their own harvest!”
What We Learned from Our Visit
In a world where food transparency is of utmost importance, visiting farms is one of the best ways to establish trust with our consumers. This level of transparency differentiates our brand from others by allowing you the power to know more about your food.
There is a disconnect between the food we consume and its production journey. Farming is a challenging endeavor, fraught with unpredictable hurdles. Our farmers depend on essential natural elements like sunlight and rain for crop growth and any deviation—can jeopardize their harvest.
Experiencing these farms firsthand provides a deeper appreciation for the extensive work involved in organic farming—managing weeds, innovating techniques, and educating oneself about soil health, to name a few. Organic farming is far more complex than merely planting a healthy seed in healthy soil.
Image: Oats being harvested on David Friesen’s farm.
What does organic farming mean? Organic farming represents a holistic approach to agriculture that prioritizes the health of people and the planet. At its core, organic farming prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and synthetic pesticides, ensuring that harmful toxins do not enter the food we eat. This commitment not only safeguards our health but also contributes to a reduced carbon footprint, making organic practices a more sustainable choice for farming.
Organic farming is based on practices that not only protect environmental health but also seek ways to improve it. Rather than depending on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can deplete the nutrients found in the soil and exacerbate environmental degradation, organic farming helps to improve soil health through sustainable practices such as composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation. 1
These sustainable methods also help to protect natural habitats with the understanding that a diverse biological landscape helps to feed both people and the planet.
At One Degree Organics, our goal has always been to provide the highest quality, toxin-free organic products for your everyday enjoyment. We believe in transparency; as we like to say, “No secrets, just ingredients.” Choosing organic food not only enhances your health but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Herman explained that organic farming is important for both animals and humans, as they both require clean food to stay healthy. He mentioned that he used to eat oats but stopped because they made him feel bloated. However, since he discovered One Degree Organics, it has become the only brand of oats he eats, as they don’t make him bloat.
At One Degree Organics, our goal has always been to provide the highest quality, toxin-free organic products for your everyday enjoyment. We believe in transparency; as we like to say, “No secrets, just ingredients.”
Eating organic means:
- Your food contains higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to conventional options.
- Your food has significantly reduced exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals that can accumulate in the body over time.
- Your food is grown with a focus on preserving nature, promoting biodiversity, improving soil health, and fostering a healthier planet for future generations.
- Your food tastes better because it is grown without artificial preservatives.
Image: Organic oats from Brad & Rebecca’s farm.
Kathy says she was reminded of how important it is to know about where your food comes from, she goes on to further elaborate on her experience, “The quality of our food and our health is linked to the quality of the farm and the care a farmer puts into managing his crops using organic farming practices. All of this impacts the health of the plants that we eat. Healthy soil makes healthy plants, and healthy plants make healthy people.”
Image: Kathy on the grounds of Brad & Rebecca’s farm.
We visit each farm ourselves to ensure quality, which is why we can confidently stand behind every grain that ends up on your table, and we have the verified labels to prove it.
What’s in Store for the Future
Over the years, we have visited countless farms, and each visit only fuels our anticipation for the next. Best of all, we always look forward to sharing the incredible stories of our farmers with you.
Thanks to our 100% traceable products, you get to learn how our ingredients are grown, why organic is the healthier option, and discover the reasons why we travel far and wide to bring this quality to your breakfast table.
Image: The Smith family & Peter Weibe farm walking through the field of Peter’s farm.
We understand that knowing more about your food is important to our consumers, which is why these farm trips are an essential part in providing you with more transparency. Every time you choose One Degree Organics you can rest assured that our ingredients have been carefully sourced, grown and harvested for your family’s enjoyment.
Stay in the loop with all things vegan and delicious by following us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.
REFERENCES
- Organic Trade Association, 2023. Available from: https://ota.com/resources/environmental-benefits-organic. Accessed on January, 2025
