Backgrounder

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) works with industry to promote compliance by making sure that they are aware of their requirements under the law. The Agency also responds promptly and enforces its decisions when it detects non-compliance to food safety requirements.

The CFIA has a number of options that can be applied when it responds to non-compliance. The Agency has the flexibility to select the appropriate response based on the severity of the violation and considers factors such as the potential or actual harm, the compliance history of the regulated party, and the intent.

These options include, but are not limited to:

• issuing a formal written request to take corrective measures (commonly known as a Corrective Action Request) by a specific date;
• issuing a letter of non-compliance;
• seizing and detaining the product;
• issuing an order to remove the product from Canada;
• recalling product from the marketplace;
• refusing to issue or renew licences, registrations or permits;
• suspending, revoking or cancelling licences, registrations or permits; and
• issuing Administrative Monetary Penalties; and
• referring the case for prosecution.