Last week, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) launched a consultation on the proposed changes to guidelines for simulated meat and simulated chicken. They are seeking responses to proposed updates to the guidelines for industry on simulated meat and simulated poultry products as well as new guidelines for certain plant-based protein foods. The guidelines outline the rules for labelling, advertising, composition and fortification for such products. In light of new plant-based protein alternatives, the updates are intended to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed buying decisions and to clarify for Canada's food industry what constitutes simulated meat or poultry products. The consultation consists of a questionnaire and a short survey.
The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association’s (CCA) position is that the proposed guidelines do not encourage clarity principally because the term ‘meat’ is used to describe these products throughout. ‘Meat’ has a legal definition in the Food and Drug Regulation and using ‘meat’ for a plant-based product may be confusing to consumers. Consumers are free to make their own consumption choices, but it should be clear to them what choice they are making.
To learn more about the consultation and to submit your comments, click here. If you would like information or to discuss, please contact Lauren Martin, CCA’s Government and Food Industry Relations Manager, at martinl@cattle.ca.