See export requirements for the European Union (EU) for basic requirements. The following information concerns the specific Swiss requirement which remain applicable.
Production controls and inspection requirements
- For meat from animals of the bovine species, if the use of hormonal substances for fattening purposes cannot be excluded, in addition to certification by using Annex A in this section, please consult the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) of the Swiss Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA).
- For bovine meat, contrary to the EU, Switzerland does not prohibit the use of anabolic substances but rather implements maximum residue limits (MRLs) in meat products and labelling requirements. The exporter is fully responsible to ensure that applicable requirements are met.
- Switzerland does not prohibit the use of water, for example hot water or steam, to treat carcasses with a view to improve its microbiological quality.
Note
The use of ractopamine is not allowed in products intended for export to the Swiss market. The derogation in regard to hormone growth promoters does only cover hormones and does in no way extend to other growth promoters like beta-agonists.
Labelling, marking and packaging requirements
- Specific labelling requirements apply. For more information please consult the Swiss Federal Council page on 916.51 – Ordonnance relative à la déclaration de produits agricoles issus de modes de production interdits en Suisse (French only).
- Specifically Article 3 Déclaration de la viande, des préparations de viande et des produits à base de viande (French only) and Article 5 Forme de la déclaration (French only) are of interest as they indicate that a declaration is required when the animals from which the products are derived may have received hormonal growth promoters.
- Importers and exporters are responsible to fulfil the applicable labelling requirements.
Documentation requirements
- Certificate of Inspection Covering Meat Products (CFIA/ACIA 1454)
Annex A – Veterinary Certificate to Switzerland
Note
In the case of fresh bovine meat products, Annex A may only be used in cases where the animals from which the meat is derived do not fulfill the requirements prescribed in Annex R: The Canadian Program for Certifying Freedom from Growth Enhancing Products (GEPs) for the Export of Beef to the European Union (EU).
Annex G – Certificate of Authenticity – Beef and Veal – Swiss Ordinance of November 26, 2003 on the meat stock and meat market (SR 916.341)
Note
Issued in the case of High Quality of Beef meat.