CFIA (Canada) Feed Regulatory Modernization
Livestock Feeds
Livestock feeds are safe for animals, humans (via food products), and the environment.
- Brand name
Clear and not misleading. It does not imply that the feed has qualities or properties that it does not possess.
- Name of livestock feed
Accurately reflect the feed’s intended use and species. The name is descriptive enough to distinguish it from other similar feeds on the market.
- Form of a livestock feed
The physical form (e.g., pellet, mash, crumble) is stated on the label to help users select the appropriate feed for their livestock.
- Directions for use
Clear instructions on how the feed should be used, including feeding rates, frequency, and any special handling instructions.
- Guaranteed analysis
Guaranteed analysis of key nutrients (e.g., protein, fat, fiber), expressed as percentages.
- List of ingredients
Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight.
- Name and address of feed manufacturer
Includes the full name and address of the manufacturer or the registrant responsible for the feed.
- Identification code (lot number)
Lot number or identification code to allow for traceability in case of recalls or quality issues.
- Net amount
Clearly indicated to help buyers understand the quantity they are purchasing.
- Prohibited Material (PM) statement
Feed that contains ingredients prohibited in specific livestock species (e.g., ruminants), particularly in relation to BSE (Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy.)
- Caution statements and warning statements
For medicated feeds or feeds containing additives that require special handling or use precautions.
- Claims
Substantiated by scientific evidence and approved by the regulatory body and not misleading or exaggerated.
- Useful information on a livestock feed label
Storage conditions, shelf life, or specific advantages of the feed (e.g., improved growth rate), can be included.
- Language(s) on a livestock feed label
Labels in both English and French language to ensure accessibility to all users, following official language laws.
Hazard Analysis, Preventive Controls, and Preventive Control Plans (PCP)
Feed manufacturers are required to conduct a comprehensive hazard analysis to identify any biological, chemical, or physical hazards that could affect feed safety and implement preventive controls to mitigate risks.
- Hazard analysis
- Preventive controls
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Critical Control Points (CCP)
- Preventive Control Plans (PCP)
Complaint Procedures
Feed manufacturers and distributors are required to establish a system for receiving, documenting, and addressing complaints related to feed safety, quality, and labeling.
- Complaint handling system
- Investigation procedure
- Corrective actions
- Documentation procedure
Recall Procedures
Allows the identification of feed throughout the entire supply chain.
- Product tracking
- Traceability procedure
- Supplier approval
- Traceability records
- Feed safety investigation
- Record-keeping
Pet Foods
Pet food labels must provide accurate, truthful, and clear information that enables consumers to make informed decisions.
- Guaranteed Nutrient Analysis
- Minimum or maximum levels of these key nutrients (e.g., crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and moisture)
- Ingredients
- Listed in descending order by their weight prior to processing.
- Additives or preservatives used in the product are also identified.
- Product Name
- Accurately reflects the contents of the food, particularly the type of protein or main ingredients.
- Nutritional Adequacy and Nutrient Profiles
- Indicate whether the pet food is formulated to meet the nutrient profiles established by organizations.
- Claims
- Substantiated by scientific evidence and approved by the regulatory body and not misleading or exaggerated.
- Misrepresentation of the Character and Size of Business, Extent of Testing, etc.
- An industry member must not, directly or indirectly, by way of its company, brand, trade name, or otherwise, make any false or misleading representation.
- Deceptive Endorsements, Testimonials, and Awards
- An industry member must not, directly or indirectly, by way of endorsement, testimonial, award, advertising, labelling, brand, trade name or otherwise, make any false or misleading representation.