In Canada, food safety is everyone's business. Government, industry and the consumer each have a role to play. Health Canada is responsible for the development and administration of health and safety policies and standards for all foods. Industry is responsible for complying with the standards set by government. In this regard the CFIA has been working closely with Health Canada and the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters to develop a preventive program to assist Canadian importers in meeting the challenge presented by food allergens.
Food allergies are a growing concern for both consumers and the food industry.
Allergic reactions to foods can vary from minor to life-threatening. Some Canadian importers have had to conduct costly recalls to remove unacceptable products from the retail market. To help importers improve the safety of their foods and to reduce the need for costly recalls, the CFIA, in consultation with the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters, conducted a nationwide assessment of the labelling and allergen controls in the import sector. The assessment was conducted at Canadian importers who are regulated primarily under the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations . The assessment focused on information transfer and on assessing the controls needed to reduce the potential for allergic reactions resulting from imported food products.