Food and Beverage Manufacturers Applaud Harper Government's Food Safety Legislation

New law to enhance Canada's reputation as a global food and beverage product safety leader

TORONTO, June 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Food & Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC) strongly supports new legislation tabled today in Ottawa which builds on Canada's exemplary food safety standards.

FCPC has been working closely with the federal government to help modernize our existing food safety laws. The food and beverage manufacturing industry and the government share the same goal - continuing to provide the safe, high quality food and beverages Canadians rely on and trust. These changes will further enhance Canada's reputation as a global food and beverage product safety leader.

The Safe Foods for Canadians Act contains key provisions that meet many of the food safety objectives of both industry and government, and continue to protect consumers. The new legislation focuses on prevention and will also consolidate existing laws into one allowing for greater consistency across product categories and harmonizing enforcement powers. FCPC also supports the introduction of new offences related to product tampering and authorizing higher financial penalties for food safety violations. 

Recently the government also introduced amendments to the Food and Drugs Act in Bill C-38 which will bring about much needed improvement to the way food is approved in Canada. Both moves are strongly supported by FCPC and its member companies. 

QUOTES

"Canadians already enjoy some of the safest food products in the world. The proposed Safe Foods for Canadians Act will definitely further enhance Canada's reputation as global food safety leaders. Food & Consumer Products of Canada and all our members strongly support and applaud the federal government's strong action to modernize Canada's food safety laws."

- Nancy Croitoru, President & CEO, Food & Consumer Products of Canada

FACTS

• The food and consumer products manufacturing industry employs 300,000 Canadians - the largest employer in the manufacturing sector.
• Our industry operates more than 6,000 manufacturing facilities in both urban and rural areas in every region in the country.

Food & Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC) is the largest industry association in Canada representing the food and consumer products industry. Our member companies make and market retailer and national brands sold through grocery, drug, convenience, mass merchandise and foodservice distribution channels.