CFIA Change in prioritization of compliance activities for manufactured foods (MFS) beginning November 1, 2022

On April 8, 2020 the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) had announced that the CFIA would not prioritize compliance activities associated with the Safe Foods for Canadians Regulations (SFR) coming into force for the Manufactured Food Sector (MFS) on July 15, 2020.

Effective November 1, 2022, the CFIA’s previously announced approach to the prioritization of compliance activities of the SFCR requirements for the manufactured food sector (MFS) will end. Businesses that have not yet applied for a licence under the Safe Food for Canadians Act (SFCA) are encouraged to do so as soon as possible to ensure they will comply with SFCR requirements.

As of this date, the CFIA will conduct compliance activities in the MFS consistent with its long-standing Compliance and enforcement policy to respond to non-compliance with fairness, impartiality and transparency. CFIA’s early enforcement efforts, where possible, will focus on promoting the understanding of and compliance with these new requirements.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has posted an update on its Toolkit for food businesses regarding upcoming changes to its approach to the prioritization of compliance activities for the manufactured food sector.

If you have any questions about CFIA’s compliance activities, please contact your local CFIA office.