Inspect and Protect

Safe food. Healthy animals.
Disease and pest-free plants.

 

Learn how the CFIA works every day to protect Canada's food supply, animals and plants through real-life stories, expert advice and educational content.

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Don't pack pork: what travellers need to know before returning to Canada ASF has never been found in Canada, but if were introduced here, it would have serious consequences for pigs, farmers and the economy. Even small amounts of contamn introduce the disease. Animal health Article 2026-05-21
Travelling hunters: help keep African swine fever out of Canada What travelling hunters need to know to protect Canada's pigs. Animal health Article 2026-05-21
No pork in parcels: what to know before sending, ordering or receiving food Even if a product looks safe, is packaged or shelf-stable, it may not meet Canadian import requirements. Animal health Article 2026-05-21
Protect Canada's pigs: what agricultural workers travelling to Canada need to know What agricultural workers travelling to Canada need to know to protect Canada's pigs. Animal health Article 2026-05-21
I am proud to be a CFIA veterinarian – here's why As Canada's Chief Veterinary Officer, I'm honoured to be part of a diverse community of CFIA veterinarians dedicated to protecting animals, people and the environment. If you're a practicing or aspiring veterinarian, consider joining our team! Animal health, Science and innovation Article 2026-05-11
Have food allergies? Tips for reading food labels Have food allergies? Check out these tips on how to read food labels when shopping with allergies. Food safety Article 2026-05-11
A better approach to meat inspection As the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) come into force on January 15, 2019, the CFIA is getting ready to use a flexible, effective and science-based approach to inspection that reflects inspector knowledge, experience and judgment, including in meat inspection. Food safety Article 2018-11-13
A student's perspective: entomology at the CFIA My name is Kiersten DeViller, and I'm in my third year studying Biology at Carleton University. My summer was filled with new experiences and so many beetles, so here's a little snapshot of what it looked like. Science and innovation Article 2023-11-29
Advancing the inclusion and recognition of Indigenous science at the CFIA In the summer of 2023, the CFIA created the Indigenous Science Office. This new office within Science Branch aims to coordinate and support efforts to strengthen the inclusion and recognition of Indigenous science perspectives, values and practices at the CFIA. Science and innovation Article 2024-06-28
Are crickets the new tofu? Crickets have attracted global interest for their sustainable farming potential. And yet, so few of us have hopped on to this protein trend. In this podcast, we explore the edible insect landscape in Canada with food trend expert Dana McCauley. Food safety Podcast 2022-12-08
Are you a food importer? New requirements may apply to you If you import food into Canada, you need to be aware of new food safety requirements, including licensing. Food safety Article 2019-07-12
Are you an exporter of manufactured food? Say hello to the Certificate of Free Sale As of January 15, 2019, the Safe Food for Canadians Act (SFCA) provides the CFIA authority to issue export certificates for all food sectors. Food safety Article 2019-04-04
Biosecurity: it's a pig deal for small farms and pig owners Keeping a pig disease out is less costly than dealing with it once it gets in. Whether you have a small herd or one pig, follow these tips to protect the animal(s) you care about. Animal health Article 2023-01-18
Bringing Fluffy into Canada? Know the import rules All animals deserve a safe trip into Canada. The public and commercial importers must follow all requirements to keep our furry friends safe. Animal health Article 2020-08-26
Bug fight: the emerald ash borer vs. parasitic wasps Scientists have released 100,000 wasps into the wild. Will they be able to save our ash trees? In this podcast, an entomologist explains the fascinating science of biological control agents. Science and innovation, Plant health Podcast 2021-10-12
Bye bye beetle Have you heard the good news? After several years of close monitoring, the Asian longhorned beetle has been eradicated in Mississauga and Toronto. Plant health Article 2020-06-24
Calling all budding #JuniorCFIA scientists Download our science activities to learn more about the fascinating world (and kitchen) around you. Science and innovation, Plant health, Food safety, Animal health Article 2020-09-22
Canada getting new digital tools to help detect and prevent food safety incidents Canada now uses a digital platform that promotes collaboration on scientific research and routine surveillance, and not just during outbreaks. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2018-11-13
Canada hosts COVID-19 international symposium More than 1,000 scientists across the globe participated virtually in a CFIA-led symposium with experts from academia, government and the private sector. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2020-09-24
Canada's Christmas tree industry is booming—fir real! Famous for their aroma, Canadian Christmas trees are sold in the millions across the world. In this podcast, we branch out into the industry through the lens of a Nova Scotian tree inspector. Plant health Podcast 2021-12-15
Canadian innovation is helping CFIA fast track technology that tests animals for coronaviruses There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic situation has posed significant challenges to the daily operations of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and industry sectors. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2020-09-04
Canadians get more variety in the beer and vodka aisle Canada's beer and vodka compositional standards have been revised, allowing for industry to be more innovative and create new products that meet the needs of consumers. Food safety Article 2019-07-12
Celebrating 15 years of organic products Canadians can trust Happy 15th anniversary to Canada's Organic Regime! When you see the Canada organic logo on food, you can trust it meets Canada's strict certification standards. Food safety Article 2024-06-27
CFIA scientists develop new test for unusual food safety case In late August 2022, Ontario public health authorities notified the Public Health Agency of Canada of 12 cases of an unknown foodborne illness in York, Ontario. Early observations from local public health authorities identified symptoms consistent with aconitine poisoning. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2024-09-13
CFIA scientists seek the Barcode of Life Imagine a world where all living things could be identified through DNA extraction and sequencing. Science and innovation Article 2019-09-18
Charting a course for open science The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) fully supports open science and is working towards improving access to the scientific work that keeps Canadians safe and healthy while protecting the environment and the economy. Science and innovation Article 2021-11-03
Collaborating for safer food and stronger agriculture We all know that fresh fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy, balanced diet. These crops are also used to make foods like juices, cereals and pasta, and feed the animals that add eggs, meat and dairy to our diets. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2024-03-05
Community science: more than a hobby You don't consider yourself a scientist? Think again. In this podcast, Dr. Pierre Bilodeau explains how apps can help you make discoveries in your own backyard. Science and innovation, Plant health Podcast 2021-05-06
Consistent and efficient inspections The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recognizes a good regulatory system is one that is consistent and efficient. This is why it is replacing 14 sets of existing regulations with one which streamlines food safety requirements across sectors. Food safety Article 2019-01-31
Creating more inclusive workspaces at the CFIA's Burnaby Laboratory Promoting an inclusive workplace has always been a priority for Carolyn Bateman, Director of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) Burnaby Laboratory. Science and innovation Article 2023-06-09
Detecting marine biotoxins – CFIA and university students working to make a difference A visit to a lab helped a group of students with their project to develop a toxin detector that could help safeguard Canadian shellfish. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2019-10-10
Digging through the past and planting seeds for the future Building on more than 110 years of history, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA's) Sidney Laboratory – also known as the Centre for Plant Health – will soon be home to a brand new plant health science facility. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2023-03-17
Do you have what it takes to be a superhero? Every day, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) protects food, animals and plants, which helps improve the health of Canada's people, environment and economy. But, we constantly need the help of brave superheroes, like you and your friends, to keep all Canadians safe. Science and innovation, Plant health, Food safety, Animal health Article 2022-12-29
Don't bring uninvited "guests" with you this winter Although you might not see them, invasive insects can easily hide in firewood—even in the colder months! If you're stocking up on firewood to keep warm this winter, buy it where you'll burn it to prevent the spread of plant pests. Plant health Article 2023-09-21
Edible insects: what to know before biting into bugs Edible insects are on grocery store shelves. Are you ready to give them a try? Here are some ways the CFIA protects consumers so you can dig in with confidence. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2021-09-21
Fact checking highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) Managing highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in animal populations is essential for public health, the poultry industry, and the Canadian economy, especially since wild birds can carry and spread the virus without showing symptoms. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2025-06-16
Feeling the sting: the impact of honey fraud on beekeepers There's a sticky situation out there. In this podcast, we discuss honey adulteration with Jake Berg, a Saskatchewanian beekeeper, and Carmen Leung, a policy and program leader at the CFIA. Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2022-06-22
Food allergen labelling The CFIA has resources to help food businesses understand food allergen labelling and comply with regulations. Food safety Article 2017-07-05
Food fraud Consumers care that what they think they are eating, is in fact what they are eating. The reality is that some food products may be misrepresented. Food safety Article 2017-12-01
Food from abroad, home-grown safety standards The CFIA's Foreign Verification targets establishments that manufacture, distribute, re-pack or re-label food for export to Canada. Food safety Article 2018-02-22
Food poisoning trivia with 2 epidemiologists In this podcast episode, we bust popular myths about food poisoning with 2 epidemiologists, Tanis Kershaw and Courtney Smith, from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2023-09-25
Food recalls: what's the deal? Learn about food recalls and why it's important to sign up for recall alerts. Food safety Video 2018-11-09
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: a good offence is the best defence Each year, government veterinarians from Canada and the United States participate in a Foot-and-Mouth Disease emergency preparation course. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2020-07-07
Getting food exports ready for takeoff In 2020, Canadian agri-food and seafood exports reached nearly $74 billion, compared to $67 billion in 2019. Food safety Article 2021-03-26
Going the extra mile for imported food safety Canadians enjoy a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables from around the world thanks to countries with warmer climates that provide these products year-round. Food safety Article 2020-09-10
Harnessing the power of spectroscopy for food safety The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is always looking for ways to enhance food safety. Electromagnetic radiation can provide a unique perspective on what's in food and is extremely useful in investigations into food safety, quality and potential fraud. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2022-04-28
Hemlock woolly what? Have you seen what looks like cotton balls at the base of hemlock tree needles? They could be egg sacs of hemlock woolly adelgid, an insect that attacks and kills hemlock trees. Plant health Article 2022-07-04
How Canada is keeping its pigs safe: African swine fever In this podcast, we hear about the unprecedented efforts being made to prevent a fatal animal disease from entering the country and to protect Canada's $24 billion pork industry. Science and innovation, Animal health Podcast 2021-08-28
How Canada paved the road for COVID-19 testing in Ghana The veterinary staff originally trained by Canadian experts to detect anthrax, avian influenza and African swine fever are now testing for human pathogens in Ghana. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2020-06-08
How food testing helps keep you safe CFIA scientists test food products to look for undeclared allergens and other hazards, like pesticides and bacteria, that could make you or your loved ones sick. Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2023-08-22
How to be a happy camper Tent…check. Sleeping bag…check. S'mores…check! Before you head out on your next adventure, check out these important tips to help protect yourself and the environment. Plant health, Food safety Article 2021-08-09
I found a bug in my food! Ever find something unexpected in your food, like bugs or plastic? In this podcast, a food safety specialist shares his strangest discoveries. Food safety Podcast 2021-06-23
Innovation and global competitiveness Strong, flexible regulations that focus on prevention goes a long way in supporting the food industry's ability to innovate and compete globally. Food safety Article 2019-01-31
International conference drives science forward in the post-pandemic era The 2021 BSL4ZNet conference brought together experts from around the world. Learn more about this CFIA-led network and the role of science diplomacy in protecting human and animal health. Science and innovation Article 2023-06-28
International science perspectives on potato wart Potato wart is a disease of potatoes caused by the fungus Synchytrium endobioticum – a particularly hardy and persistent pest. While potato wart does not pose a risk to human or animal health, the disease can deform potato tubers, making them unmarketable, and reduce crop yields. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2024-09-06
Introducing "Óiase": a new apple variety honoring Canada's agricultural and cultural heritage The 'Óiase' apple, bred over 17 years for taste and resilience, honours Kanehsatà:ke heritage through its Mohawk name. Now protected by CFIA Plant Breeders' Rights, it's available at select Quebec orchards. Plant health Article 2025-05-12
Introducing the Fish Health Tracker Tool This blog post was originally published in Healthy Wildlife, the blog of the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative. Science and innovation Article 2026-07-14
Join the fight against antimicrobial resistance Antimicrobial drugs are sometimes overused and misused in medicine, the agri-food industry and even cleaning products. Follow these tips to keep yourself, your animals and the environment healthy. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2022-11-18
Joining forces against hemlock woolly adelgid CFIA experts are working with colleagues from Natural Resources Canada and the University of Guelph in the fight against a tree-killing pest. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2022-06-23
Leadership and innovation in seed identification Could you identify a plant seed out of hundreds of thousands of species, or tell the difference between the seed of a crop and an invasive species? Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2024-09-06
Managing your pigs: Tips for new farms and pig owners Tips for managing pigs on new farms and as a pig owner. Learn about housing requirements, proper feeding practices, and biosecurity measures for pig management. Ensure the well-being of your pigs and protect them from diseases with expert guidance. Animal health Article 2023-07-28
Meet Anas Zaman, CFIA junior communications officer For Generation Z (including me), choosing a career path and entering the workforce can be intimidating. Here's how a co-op student opportunity at the CFIA opened my eyes to the fascinating world of communications in the Government of Canada. Science and innovation Article 2023-02-27
Meet Anthony Valles, CFIA inspector specialist As an inspector specialist, I work behind the scenes to verify the safety of the food that ends up on Canadians' plates. Let's pull back the curtain on how those products make their way from the farm to your fork. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2022-08-15
Meet Dr. Caitlyn Best, CFIA veterinary program officer In my job, dealing with animal diseases and outbreaks is rewarding. Even when there are no active outbreaks, I'm always thinking of how Canada can prepare. And that's why I work at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2023-04-24
Meet Dr. Carmencita Lake, CFIA veterinarian I can't think of a time when I didn't want to be a veterinarian. After 20 years in private practice, here's how I'm helping to protect your health while paving the way for the next generation of veterinarians and inspectors. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2024-06-05
Meet Dr. Naheda Sahtout, CFIA science analyst As an immigrant woman with low vision, I've been breaking down barriers since arriving in Canada. Here's my important message for anyone pursuing a STEM career when the odds are stacked against you. Science and innovation Article 2022-06-10
Meet Dr. Yves Robinson, CFIA veterinary pathologist As a child, my mother gave me a toy farm for Christmas. Today, other CFIA veterinarians rely on me to diagnose diseases as we work together to protect Canada's animals and food supply. Science and innovation, Food safety, Animal health Article 2022-04-04
Meet Geneviève Lebrun, CFIA food processing specialist inspector I often find that my work is not well understood by the general public. But it is very hands-on because I am on site in food processing facilities every day. There is no shortage of challenges! Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2023-01-03
Meet Jasmine Mander, CFIA science specialist Raised in Ottawa, I was privileged from a very young age with easy access to the natural world. Here's how I followed my own trail towards working for Canada's largest science-based regulator. Science and innovation, Plant health, Food safety Article 2022-04-01
Meet Melissa Boudrias, CFIA mental health and wellness advisor CFIA employees have shown relentless dedication and resilience. But even superheroes need help sometimes. Here's why I'm passionate about promoting mental health at work. Food safety, Plant health, Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2022-09-13
Meet Noelle Smith, CFIA programmer I wear many hats at work: programmer, co-chair of the LGBTQ2+ network, and head of the positive space committee. Learn how with lots of drive, Java, and connections, I rarely crash! Science and innovation Article 2022-06-10
Meet Olga Pena, scientist and advocate My name is Olga Pena. I'm a woman, a scientist, a mom, and a Canadian immigrant. I was born and raised in a small town in the middle of the Andes Cordillera in Colombia. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2022-02-03
Meet Rositsa Dimitrova, CFIA plant health risk assessor As a CFIA plant health risk assessor, Rositsa's efforts to protect plant health in Canada are crucial. Find out how she got here and the work she does to safeguard Canada's plants. Did you know that the CFIA works to safeguard the health of Canada's plants? Learn more from our Plant Health Risk Assessor, Rositsa Dimitrova, who shares how her passion for nature and study of insects led to her working at the CFIA. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2022-08-18
Meet Shae Wasyliw, CFIA meat hygiene inspector As a cattle rancher and meat hygiene inspector with the CFIA, farming and agriculture have always been part of my life. Here's how I paved my way in the industry to help feed and protect Canadians. Science and innovation, Food safety, Animal health Article 2023-01-24
Meet Sharan Sandhu, CFIA food inspector For over a decade, I've been working to protect you from contaminated produce. Dig into my story to learn how I check your favourite fruits and vegetables before they end up at farmers' markets and grocery stores. Food safety Article 2022-12-14
Meet Tracy Lawrence, CFIA virology technician If you've ever taken a bite of locally grown peaches, enjoyed a glass of Canadian wine, or gone apple picking—you've had a taste of my work! Learn how I sowed my passion for plant science into a career at the CFIA. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2023-01-24
Meet Wei Ke, CFIA application analyst Because I'm hearing impaired, I used to rely on colleagues to take notes at meetings. Now I rely on technology. Learn how I am able to work, and how the CFIA helps support persons with special needs. Science and innovation Article 2023-12-14
Modernized Slaughter Inspection Program for hogs The pilot project moves inspection to a more risk-based approach where inspectors focus on true areas of risks to food safety. Food safety Article 2018-06-04
More sharing, more safety Digital tools will allow the CFIA and its partners to better anticipate, detect and respond to food safety emergencies by harnessing the power of shared data. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2019-11-27
More than 10,000 food recalls over 20 years! The Office of Food Safety and Recall celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2019. During that time, there have been more than tens of thousands of food safety investigations. Food safety Article 2019-04-04
New limits apply to the food you bring home from abroad Calling all travellers and online shoppers: it's important to know the rules about what foods (and how much) you can bring into Canada. Food safetiy Article 2022-06-09
New Safe Food for Canadians Regulations and small businesses Regardless of their size, food businesses have an important role to play in maintaining Canada's reputation as a world leader in food safety. Food safety Article 2019-01-31
New technology to detect and identify plant diseases With the help an online tool, scientists at the CFIA's Charlottetown Laboratory can quickly pinpoint plant pathogens based on their DNA. That's great news for our crops and ecosystems! Science and innovation Article 2023-01-25
New traceability requirements under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations The ability to track a food product through the supply chain is a key step in maintaining food safety. Food safety Article 2018-06-08
Outcome-based requirements: what they mean for food businesses The Safe Food for Canadians Regulations are in force and bring with them a number of key advancements. Food safety Article 2019-04-04
Outstanding in their field: meet Ashley Balchin and Renée Cloutier, CFIA plant breeders' rights examiners Plant breeding helps boost new crop varieties, yields, tolerance to disease and nutritional value for the food we grow. Here's how two CFIA experts support innovations that benefit shoppers, farmers and other countries. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2023-02-16
Parents and caregivers: Master food labels for allergy-safe lunches and snacks Packing lunches can be hard enough, but ensuring that your child is sent to school with allergy-friendly lunches is an even bigger challenge. Pack lunches and snacks with confidence by following these tips. Food safety Article 2023-10-25
Pass the Mic: talking about celiac disease Experts from the Canadian Celiac Association and the CFIA answer a question about how they work to protect those who need to steer clear of gluten. Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2021-02-23
Pass the Mic: talking about food recall communications CFIA expert Fred Jamieson answers a question about retailers' role in telling consumers about food recalls. Food safety Video 2020-02-27
Preventive food safety controls: identifying risk early Food safety issues can lead to serious health risks for the public. That's why we have the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations. Food safety Article 2018-06-21
Prioritizing food inspections to help protect Canadians during COVID-19 The CFIA has been evolving the way it manages risk during COVID-19 and helping inspectors determine where they should be spending more or less time. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2020-11-25
Protecting Canadians from the leading cause of Salmonella illnesses in Canada Frozen breaded chicken products, like chicken nuggets and fingers, are commonly found in Canadian households. They're quick, easy, and loved by kids and adults alike. But behind these convenient foods is a story of science and safety. Food safety, Science and innovation Article 2025-05-01
Protecting you from contaminated romaine lettuce People often associate E. coli outbreaks with raw or undercooked beef. But E. coli can be found on other products, like fresh produce. For example, between 2010 and 2019, 16 recalls due to E. coli in Canada were linked to romaine lettuce. Food safety Article 2026-07-23
Putting fish DNA to the test Fish is one of the most commonly reported misrepresented foods worldwide. To combat this issue, our experts use DNA testing to detect mislabelled fish. Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2022-08-30
Putting honey to the test Canadians love their honey. But if sugars are added and not declared on the label, that is a form of food fraud. The CFIA tests honey to make sure it's authentic. Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2021-03-30
Quick tips to cut back on food waste Follow these simple tips to reduce food waste. Food safety Article 2023-11-14
Report plant pests to help protect Canada's plant resources All Canadians have a role to play in protecting plants in Canada from invasive insects and plant species. This includes reporting findings of plant pests to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Invasive plants, insects, snails, slugs and pathogens all have the potential to negatively impact Canada's agriculture, forestry and environmental resources. Quickly determining their impact is key to minimizing any potential damage to the Canadian environment and economy. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2022-08-18
Riding the e-commerce wave: be aware of risks of some online purchases Canadians are making record-high e-commerce purchases. Before placing your next order, be aware of the rules that apply to food, plant and animal products. Plant health, Food safety, Animal health Article 2022-11-14
Science in action: protecting people with allergies 2.6 million Canadians are affected by food allergies. So how does the CFIA help to protect you and your loved ones? Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2018-05-6
Sharing bacterial DNA data helps solve international food safety investigations In 2020, the sharing of data allowed food safety authorities to rapidly trace a multinational outbreak to enoki mushrooms and to recall the affected products. Science and innovation, Food safety Article 2021-03-05
Six things the CFIA does to keep Canada's food supply safe Canada's agriculture and agri-food system employs about 2.3 million people and generates over $150 billion of Canada's gross domestic product (GDP). It is a complex system that is safeguarded by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) employees and is known as one of the best food safety systems in the world. Food safety, Science and innovation Article 2024-11-27
Staying safe with allergies: triple-check labels for food bought online Here's how the growing trend towards online grocery shopping is impacting Canadians living with food allergies, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Food safety Article 2021-05-25
Stop the spread in every season No matter the season, you can always do your part to prevent the spread of invasive species. This fall, learn to recognize and report these pests and protect the health of our plants and trees so you can enjoy your favourite autumn activities—whether camping, hiking, cycling, or spending time outdoors—for many years to come. Plant health Article 2024-10-10
Tackling food fraud Food fraud may occur when food is misrepresented—and it happens globally. Here's how the CFIA and the public can work together to combat it. Food safety Video 2020-11-23
The 12 days of plant protection Whether you're shopping online, headed on a road trip or enjoying the frosty outdoors this holiday season, take note of these plant health tips from CFIA expert David Bailey. Plant health Article 2022-12-19
The CFIA leads a new approach to One Health risk assessment for SARS-CoV-2 In 2020, the whole world was pulled into the life of an epidemiologist. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2021-02-11
The CFIA's Standard Inspection Procedure: rolling it out to all food inspectors The CFIA uses a Standard Inspection Procedure to make inspection and enforcement activities more consistent and predictable. Food safety Article 2018-06-04
The scoop on ice cream and allergies As temperatures rise, so do many Canadians' cravings for ice cream! But food allergies can prove to be a serious or life-threatening health risk for people of all ages, including children. Food safety Article 2022-05-19
Three facts about best before dates that can save you money Use these tips to make the most of your groceries and waste less food at home. Food safety Article 2023-11-15
The food safety puzzle: piecing together an outbreak investigation Behind every outbreak of food poisoning, a team of detectives works around the clock to pinpoint the source. This podcast episode, 4 experts explain how they connect the dots to save lives. Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2023-09-20
Tiny seeds you buy online can cause big trouble As you dream about planting your garden to beautify your home or grow your own food, remember that the seeds you buy online could do more harm than good. Plant health, Animal health Article 2021-03-18
Travel smart: bringing back wooden and bamboo souvenirs Souvenirs from your travels can be treasured reminders of your trip, but did you know they can also carry hidden pests? Carved masks and decorative pieces made from untreated bamboo or wood or that include bark pieces can carry invasive species, larvae, or eggs that pose a serious threat to Canada's forests, agriculture, and environment. Plant health Article 2025-11-19
Travellers' guide: Tips for avoiding problems at the border when bringing food, plant and animals into Canada Whether you are returning to Canada or doing a quick cross-border shopping trip, this article will provide you with valuable tips so that you can breeze through customs with confidence. Plant health, Food safety, Animal health Article 2023-12-08
Archived - Tree checking tips Stumped on how to check your trees? Listen to CFIA expert Ron Neville's tips and tricks that could save the lives of these beloved giants. Plant health Podcast 2020-08-24
Understanding the dates on our food You've finally gathered the courage to clean up your fridge or pantry, but how do you know what to keep or chuck? On this podcast, labelling expert Laura Reid helps us understand the different dates on our foods. Food safety Podcast 2023-04-25
Under-weight and under-filled food products: 5 things to know and how to report it Get the facts to help you spot when you're being short-changed, when to report it to us, and what happens when you do. Food safety Article 2025-01-21
What are those white spots on your chocolate? Have you ever opened a chocolate treat that didn't look quite right? Here are some chocolate-related natural occurrences you may not be aware of. Food safety Article 2021-09-03
What the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations mean for consumers Canada is widely regarded as having one of the strongest food safety systems in the world. But the speed, volume and complexity of food production have brought significant new risks and challenges, including new threats to food safety, changing consumer preferences and the development of prevention-focused international standards. Food safety Article 2019-01-31
What's hiding in your furniture? When we think of invasive species, the idea that pests can exist in the wood products we own or purchase rarely comes to mind. Plant health Article 2021-0-14
What's in my firewood, and why should it matter? Gathering around campfires in the summer or a hearth in the cold winter is classically Canadian. What we don't often think about is the wood itself. Science and innovation, Plant health Article 2019-06-24
What's the tea on best-before dates: 6 ways they help you at home and while shopping Best-before dates get a lot of attention these days, including being subject to misinformation (spoiler alert: they are about freshness, not safety, and are not being eliminated). So what's the real tea on best before dates? Food safety Article 2024-03-14
Why the CFIA advocates prudent use of antimicrobial drugs Antimicrobial resistance is a complex issue. It is the root cause for why antibiotics are increasingly less effective in treating infections in both humans and animals. Science and innovation, Animal health Article 2018-06-04
Women in Science – podcast with Anna-Mary Schmidt Anna-Mary started out as a photographer, but her desire to discover nature led her to become a scientist who works to keep Canada's grapevines and fruit safe. Science and innovation, Plant health Podcast 2019-06-13
Women in Science – podcast with Bree Ann Lightfoot and Dr. Lisa Hodges Bree-Ann and Lisa work together to perform species identification testing of fish to confirm that companies are accurately labelling their products. Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2019-06-10
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Émilie Larocque When Dr. Catherine Brisson was 14 years old she did not like biology at all. But one Christmas her mother gave her a medical dictionary, which is where her love of biology started. Thanks to her mom and that dictionary, Catherine is a veterinarian today! Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2019-06-11
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Catherine Brisson One Christmas, Catherine's mother gave her a medical dictionary, which is where her love of biology started. Thanks to her mom, Catherine is a veterinarian today. Science and innovation, Animal health Podcast 2019-06-11
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Hana Weingartl With over 30 years as a scientist, Hana has taken the opportunity to share her knowledge and experience as a teacher in the classroom and in the lab. Science and innovation, Animal health Podcast 2019-06-13
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Mireille Marcotte While mosquitoes can definitely bug you, Mireille explains how it is actually the Asian longhorned beetle that is the invasive pest Canadians need to watch out for. Science and innovation, Plant health Podcast 2019-06-15
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Ruojing Wang From a very young age, Ruojing has always been fascinated by plants. She now works to detect and identify their seeds to prevent the spread of unwanted plants. Science and innovation, Plant health Podcast 2019-06-23
Women in Science – podcast with Dr. Susan Nadin-Davis As a research scientist, Susan develops tests for bacteria and viruses. Her work helps reduce the impact of diseases such as rabies, in animal populations. Science and innovation, Animal health Podcast 2019-06-13
Women in Science: meet Diane Allan, Vice-President of Science at the CFIA The CFIA has many exciting job opportunities where you could help to protect Canada's food, plants and animals. Watch Diane Allan's inspiring message for women and girls considering a career in STEM. Science and innovation Video 2023-02-10
Women in Science: meet Victoria Arling and Annie Locas Calling all students: do you love science? Are you wondering what to do with a science degree? Here's how two CFIA experts got their careers started. Science and innovation, Food safety Video 2021-05-13
Women in Science: podcast with Katie Eloranta and Dr. Catherine Carrillo The really exciting part about science is the first time you don't fail. That moment when something that you thought would never work finally pays off, and something comes together, and you make something new and different than what's been there before. Science and innovation, Food safety Podcast 2020-03-11
Women in Science: vlog with Dr. Kalhari Bandara-Goonewardene 1, 2, 3…"Go science!" Do you love science as much as our own Dr. Bandara-Goonewardene? Watch her vlog to learn why this topic is near and dear to her heart. Science and innovation, Animal health Video 2020-02-10
Women in Science: vlog with Janine Maruschak This plant health expert knows a thing or two about testing grain shipments to help keep invasive pests at bay. Science and innovation, Plant health Video 2020-02-10
Working with the world's deadliest diseases In this podcast, we hear about a network connecting laboratories across the world. What is it like to be one of these scientists studying deadly viruses like COVID-19, Ebola and Anthrax? Science and innovation, Animal health Podcast 2021-11-30
You asked, we answer In this podcast, we reach out to experts across the country to find your answers about travelling with food, alcohol labelling, pet food, chicken hatcheries, allergen recalls and more. Plant health, Food safety, Animal health Podcast 2022-11-02
#DigitalFirst: vlog with Dr. Stephani McLean A veterinarian with farming and private practice experience explains the benefits doing business online through My CFIA. Science and innovation, Animal health Video 2020-10-28
On the frontlines: an inside look at meat inspection during COVID-19 It's been a tough year and a half. Everyone has endured their share of adversity during the COVID-19 pandemic, including those working in meat slaughter inspection. Food safety Article 2021-07-20