The Feeds Regulations, 2024 (SOR/2024-132) updates Canada’s regulatory framework for livestock feeds, governed by the Feeds Act, Health of Animals Act, and Food and Drugs Act. This update responds to the evolving landscape of the animal feed industry, which has changed considerably since the last comprehensive review in 1983. The regulatory reforms aim to modernize practices in line with advancements in technology, the emergence of global feed supply chains, and contemporary risk management approaches.

The Feeds Regulations, 2024, seek to establish a more flexible and outcome-based regulatory framework. Key updates include an emphasis on proactive risk management through hazard identification and preventive controls, requiring regulated parties to recognize potential hazards in feed production. This aligns with international best practices, such as those found in the U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act and the European Union’s feed regulations. Additionally, improved traceability and comprehensive record-keeping requirements will facilitate better oversight of feed safety and effectiveness, allowing for quick responses to emerging issues. New licensing provisions will aid the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in identifying regulated parties and managing compliance effectively, while a revised ingredient approval process aims to improve transparency and clarity for stakeholders involved in animal feed production and sales. The regulations will also incorporate technical standards and relevant documents by reference to ensure they remain current with the latest scientific and industry advancements.

The Feeds Regulations, 2024, will improve Canada’s alignment with key trading partners, facilitating international trade in livestock feeds. Given the global nature of the feed supply chain, a regulatory framework that adapts to the complexities of international trade while maintaining high safety standards is essential. This framework is set against a broader economic backdrop, recognizing the Canadian animal feed industry’s integral role in the agricultural sector, which contributed $5.7 billion to Canada’s GDP in 2022. With over 76,000 farms and a significant livestock population, ensuring safe and nutritious feed is vital for maintaining animal health and the safety of derived food products.

The introduction of preventive controls and improved oversight aims to mitigate risks associated with feed safety, particularly concerning antibiotic resistance and contamination by harmful pathogens or chemicals. The overarching objective of the Feeds Regulations, 2024, is to create a regulatory environment that effectively safeguards public health and animal welfare while supporting a competitive and innovative market. As these regulations are implemented, their effectiveness will be monitored to ensure they achieve the desired outcomes of improved safety, reduced risks, and improved market competitiveness for Canadian livestock producers and feed manufacturers.

Canada (SOR/2024-132) August 7, 2024