Archived - Chapter 19 – Poultry Inspection Programs

19.1 Introduction

19.1.1 Amendment Process

Suggestions and requests for change/improvements to this policy may be made by anyone within the Agency or in Industry. Proposed amendments to this policy shall be forwarded to the applicable Poultry Area Program Specialist.

Proposals must be accompanied by supporting documentation, as applicable.

Upon receipt, all proposals must undergo review by the National Poultry Specialist, and must be subsequently approved by the Director, Meat Programs Division (MPD), Animal Health Directorate (AHD) for incorporation into this document.

19.1.2 Glossary of Terms

Ante mortem Examination

Refer to the definition contained in section 2 of the MIR.

Ante mortem Inspection

Refer to the definition contained in section 2 of the MIR.

Carcass Defect Detector

An industry employee accredited to examine the exterior of carcasses and to identify and remove carcasses with specified pathology and/or processing defects. Carcass Defect Detectors may also be referred to as "Preselectors".

Cavity Defect Detector

An industry employee accredited to examine the internal (abdominal) cavity of carcasses after evisceration and to identify and remove carcasses with specified pathology and/or processing defects.

Compliance Verification System (CVS)

The Compliance Verification System (CVS) is a working tool for verifying industry's compliance to regulations; refer to Chapter 18 of this Manual.

Critical Control Point/Critical Limit

Refer to the definitions in the MIR and in the Food Safety Enhancement Program (FSEP) manual.

Defect Detection

The act of identifying and removing viscera and carcasses with specified pathology and processing defects before and after evisceration.

Deviation Procedure

Refer to the definition contained in the FSEP manual.

Dressing

As per the MIR, following stunning and bleeding, the removal of the head, feet at the ankle joint, feathers, oil glands and the digestive, respiratory, reproductive and urinary systems. The head, feet, kidneys and reproductive system may be left attached to certain categories of poultry.

Edible

As per the MIR: fit for human consumption.

Evisceration Floor Inspector

CFIA inspector, assigned under the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP), to provide government monitoring and oversight of operations and processes between evisceration and chilling.

Fowl

Mature chickens including laying hens (which provide table eggs) and breeder flocks (which provide hatching eggs).

HACCP System

Refer to the definition contained in the FSEP manual.

Hazard

Refer to the definition contained in the FSEP manual.

Meat Inspection Act (MIA)

Meat Inspection Regulations (MIR)

Monitoring

The observation or measurement of pre-established parameters of a process.

Obviously Condemnable Carcasses

Carcasses that can be readily identified as being condemnable without the additional evaluation of the viscera and the cavity.

Off-line Reconditioning

The removal of localized pathology (e.g., airsacculitis, salpingitis) from within the abdominal cavity of carcasses by vacuuming, scraping, trimming, or combinations thereof at a designated off-line work station according to the operator's approved written protocol.

Off-line Reprocessing

The removal of contamination (faecal, bile, ingesta, and extraneous material) from within the abdominal cavity of carcasses by washing, vacuuming, trimming or combinations thereof at a designated off-line work station according to the operator's approved written protocol.

On-line Inspector

CFIA inspector(s) assigned to an on-line inspection station to perform post mortem inspection as required by the applicable inspection system.

On-line Reconditioning

The removal on-line of localized pathology (e.g., airsacculitis, salpingitis) from within the abdominal cavity of carcasses according to the applicable policy and an approved operator-specific written protocol.

On-line Reprocessing

The removal on-line of contamination (faecal, bile, ingesta and extraneous material) from within the abdominal cavity of carcasses according to the applicable policy and an approved operator-specific written protocol.

Pathology Defects

Carcasses with diseases or conditions which occurred while the birds were still alive. These defects occur at the farm level or during transport to the slaughtering establishments. Examples include Cellulitis, Ascites, Cyanosis, and Emaciation.

Post mortem Examination

Refer to the definition contained in section 2 of the MIR.

Post mortem Inspection

Refer to the definition contained in section 2 of the MIR.

Preselection

The act of identifying and removing obviously condemnable carcasses before evisceration.

Process Control (PC)

Is a control used at a point or step that will contribute to the effectiveness of the related CCP(s) or post mortem inspection activities.

Processing Defects

Carcasses with conditions (non-pathological) which are attributable to processing operations. Examples include Inadequate Bleeding, Mutilation/Overscald, Faecal or Bile or Ingesta Contamination.

Salvaging

Hot boning of carcasses off-line so as to recover the non defective portions.

Veterinarian in Charge

Government veterinarian responsible for all CFIA staff activities at a slaughter establishment.

Viscera Defect Detector

An industry employee accredited to examine the viscera (heart and liver plus spleen and intestines in mature poultry) to identify and remove viscera, and when applicable, the corresponding carcass with specified pathology and/or processing defects.

19.1.3 Plant Construction and Equipment

For all general requirements concerning plant construction and equipment, please see Chapter 3 of this manual.

19.1.3.1 Requirements for Poultry Slaughter Establishments

The following specific requirements must be adhered to in poultry establishments (when applicable).

19.1.3.2 Separation of Incompatible Operations

As per Chapter 3, adequate physical separation of incompatible activities that could potentially result in the creation of a cross contamination risk for meat product shall be provided. When there is no alternative (in existing registered establishments only), effective operational controls must be implemented. These operational controls shall be thoroughly described in writing and must be strictly followed at all times.

• Areas where animals are kept shall not open directly into areas where food or packaging material are handled or stored.
• Shipping and receiving areas shall be physically separated from other areas of the establishment.
• Separation between incompatible areas (like edible and inedible, raw and ready-to-eat products, etc.) must be maintained throughout the establishment in relation to construction, operations and personnel.
• The following areas of poultry slaughtering facilities must be physically separated from each other:
  • live receiving – holding – stunning shall be separated from bleeding;
  • bleeding shall be separated from scalding – defeathering;
  • defeathering shall be separated from evisceration;
  • evisceration shall be separated from the chilling processes of carcasses.

19.1.3.3 Cleaning and Disinfecting Facilities for Transport Containers and Crates

These facilities are required by subsection 28.(4) of the MIR, and should be located in an area segregated from the live poultry receiving and holding room.

Trucks used for the transport of crates or transport containers may be cleaned and disinfected off-site providing the Operator has written procedures incorporated within the operator-specific HACCP system which ensure that clean crates or transport containers are only loaded onto clean truck surfaces.

19.1.3.4 Ante mortem Inspection Facilities

A designated safe area must be made available to the veterinarian in the staging area, or in the unloading area, or where birds are suspended on shackles.

19.1.3.5 Stunning and Bleeding Facilities

The bleeding area shall be designed to accommodate a bleeding time of not less than 90 seconds.

19.1.3.6 Defeathering and Washing

Spray washing of carcasses must occur within 15 seconds after defeathering.

Sprays at washing station shall be so directed as to wash the hock surface and the entire carcass below the hock.

19.1.3.7 Transfer Facilities

Defeathered carcasses shall be transferred to an evisceration line, which is separate from the defeathering line. Transfer facilities must be capable of being cleaned during operation.

Attention must be paid to the synchronization of slaughter and evisceration lines to prevent accumulation of carcasses at the transfer point. The transfer location must be either:

• the last processing step before the wall separating the scalding and defeathering area; or
• the first processing step after, the same wall.

The slaughtering line shall not enter the evisceration room beyond the transfer location.

19.1.3.8 Facilities for the Harvest and Processing of Poultry Feet

The scalder for feet or paws may be positioned:

• in a compatible (hygienic) area of the scalding and defeathering room; or
• in a room physically isolated (e.g., floor to ceiling walls) from the surrounding inedible area and from the evisceration floor or any other edible processing area.

The equipment for transferring the feet or paws from the scalder to the packaging area shall comply with Chapter 3 of this manual.

19.1.3.9 Washing and Singeing

Spray washing of carcasses must occur within fifteen (15) seconds after carcass transfer.

Sprays at the washing station shall be so directed as to wash the hock surface and the entire carcass below the hock.

Singeing may be used to remove hair and as a back-up for the defeathering process.

19.1.3.10 Evisceration

The facilities should provide for the removal of inedible portions, to the appropriate area, in a direction that is opposite to that of the evisceration sequence.

Equipment employed in the preparation of giblets shall be so located as to maintain sanitary conditions for this operation.

19.1.3.11 Carcass Washer

Effective carcass inside and outside washing facilities must be provided.

If management wishes to take into account the volume of water used at the wash facility, as a part of the total volume of water required in the chilling system, the washer shall be equipped with a flow meter which provides a continuous indication of the amount of water being used as well as indicating the total amount of water which has been used.

19.1.3.12 Poultry Salvaging and Off-line Reprocessing/Reconditioning Stations

Salvaging and off-line reprocessing/reconditioning of carcasses must be done within 15 minutes after being held, in order to limit microbial growth and deterioration of carcass condition.

The washing cabinet should be equipped with a three-sided splash shield or equivalent and with a non-splash spray nozzle meeting program requirements. To facilitate a thorough outside carcass rinse prior to salvage of parts and for off-line reprocessing/reconditioning, a sufficient water volume and pressure is required.

The following facilities must be provided adjacent to the salvage cabinet and off-line reprocessing/reconditioning stations which shall be equipped with:

• A knife rack or stand along with a hot water sanitizer maintained at 82°C.
• Hand wash facilities of remote control or timed type or continuous warm water flow with soap dispenser and paper towels.
• Containers for edible and inedible meat products.
• Washing facilities for shackles, held racks, hooks, cabinet and splash shields the station.

19.1.3.13 Chilling

Chilling systems employed shall have the capacity to rapidly lower the temperature of dressed carcasses, portions and giblets. Where water is employed for chilling purposes, the equipment shall be so designed as to permit an adequate overflow of water. The overflow of water from water chilling systems shall be directly drained to prevent discharge of water onto the floor during operations.

Continuous water chilling systems shall be equipped with a flow meter and a recording thermometer at the warmest part of the system. In lieu of a recording thermometer a thermometer without a recording device may be used provided manual temperature recording is carried out at the frequency specified in the HACCP system.

In new facilities or at time of major renovations the chill tank shall be located in a separate room from the evisceration area.

Weighing equipment, used to conduct moisture retention tests, must be provided where required.

19.1.3.14 Specific Facility Requirements for Poultry Slaughter Establishments

19.1.3.14.1 Establishments Operating Under the Traditional Inspection System

Since January 02, 2005, traditional inspection has been restricted to one (1) on-line post mortem inspection station. However, operators with two (2) on-line traditional inspection stations as of December 31st, 2004 have been "grandfathered".

For all poultry inspection stations, non-slip, anti-fatigue mats shall be provided and should compensate for floor slope.

19.1.3.14.2 Establishments Operating Under the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP)

CFIA on-line inspection stations required for export requests shall comply with applicable facility requirements contained in Chapter 3.

Shackles shall be colour-coded or marked in an equivalent manner to readily indicate which carcass and viscera pack corresponds to which detector.

19.1.3.14.2.1 Defect Detectors and Station for Training/Accreditation

Adequate on-line space is required for each carcass/viscera/cavity defect detector work station.

On-line space (1 metre) downstream from carcass defect detectors and prior to the venting machine for CFIA staff to train and accredit the establishment trainers as carcass defect detectors must be provided. The space is also provided for the training and the accreditation of the carcass defect detectors by the accredit trainers.

19.1.3.14.2.2 Presentation Tests and Station for Training/Accreditation

On-line space (1 to 1.5 metres), prior to viscera defect detector(s) and to trimming the carcass or harvesting the viscera, is required to perform the presentation tests.

On-line space is also required for CFIA staff to train and accredit the establishment trainers as cavity defect detectors. The space is also provided for the training and the accreditation of the carcass defect detectors by the accredit trainers. However, provisions for line space for presentation and training/accreditation may be combined.

Longer space is required proportional to line speed and associated sampling procedures.

19.1.3.14.2.3 Helper/Trimmer

On-line space is required for one company employee to remove signalled defective carcasses by the defect detectors and if time permits, trim localized defects from carcasses.

19.1.3.14.2.4 Defect Detection Standards (DDS) Station

On-line space is required, proportional to the line speed (1 to 2 metres), after viscera detection, but prior to harvesting the viscera.

Carcasses shall be synchronized to their corresponding viscera with both readily accessible to the inspector throughout the length of the inspection station.

These line space requirements may be combined with the CFIA on-line station required to meet Export requirements.

19.1.3.14.2.5 Carcass Dressing Standards Station (CDS)

The off-line monitoring station must have safe access to pre-chill lines and be protected from traffic and obstructions. An easily cleanable rack with shackles shall be provided to hold part of or the entire carcass sample and a table for examination. The station shall include a clip board holder. The monitoring station shall be under lighting that meets the minimum 2000 lux requirement.

For CFIA independent verification tests performed on heavy carcasses (e.g., turkey carcasses), the operator shall ensure minimal manipulation during the carcass collection by providing assistance or adequate equipment.

19.1.3.15 CFIA Veterinary Disposition Stations

The following requirements apply to CFIA veterinary disposition stations for all methods of poultry inspection:

• Minimum lighting of 2000 lux as measured at the entrance to the abdominal cavity, free from glare and shadows;
• The operator shall provide a plant employee (helper/trimmer) trained by the Veterinarian in Charge (VIC) to assist the veterinarian(s). Alternatively, the operator may provide equipment which automatically presents the carcass and the viscera.
• Adjustable rack(s) and/or carousel(s) and/or a moving veterinary line with sufficient capacity.
• The platform shall be positioned such that veterinarians do not need to reach forward for the carcasses and the vent of the carcass should be positioned at the inspector's or veterinarian's elbow height.
• Anti-fatigue rubber matting to provide comfort and, in addition, the matting shall be continuous throughout the work station.
• Counter/tally system (e.g., tally sheets, a mechanical or electronic counter system, computer touch screens, etc.) suitable to the VIC Counter systems shall be mounted so that the buttons can be positioned between 910 mm and 1220 mm above the floor or work stand.
• Inedible carcasses shall be unloaded into an inedible container either automatically or discarded by the helper/trimmer. For poultry smaller than turkeys, if the assistance of a helper/trimmer is not required on a routine basis, the veterinary work stations shall be designed such that the carcasses can be discarded by dropping them into a bin, chute, or gutter directly below the rack, carousel or line.

19.1.3.16 Specific Requirements for Ratites (Including Ostrich, Rhea, and Emus)

The slaughter and dressing of ratites shall only be conducted in establishments with adequate facilities and equipment to preclude contamination of carcasses and the evisceration area with dander or other contaminates resulting from the dressing procedure.

19.1.4 HACCP Program

The operator must have a HACCP system covering:

• prerequisite programs;
• process controls; and
• HACCP plan(s).

It is recommended that the HACCP Generic Model for Chicken Slaughter, developed under FSEP, be used. Elements for development and implementation of a HACCP system should be adhered to as detailed in the FSEP manual of the CFIA.

19.1.4.1 Process Control (PC)

Hazards identified during the hazard analysis may be controlled through the use of Prerequisite Programs, Critical Control Points (CCPs) and/or Process Controls (PCs). Hazards controlled by a PC should be indicated as such on the applicable biological, chemical and physical hazard identification forms within the HACCP plan as shown in the generic model.

The Food Safety Enhancement Program (FSEP) defines a Process Control (PC) as "a control used at a point or step that will contribute to the effectiveness of the related CCP(s) or post mortem inspection activities".

The PCs listed below must be utilized by poultry slaughter establishments as described later in this chapter. Any deviation at a CCP will require an evaluation of the supporting PC(s) as part of the deviation procedures associated with that CCP. The following is a list of CCPs and their supporting PCs as contained in the Poultry (Slaughter) Generic Model:

• CCP-1B Step 24 Viscera Defect Detection:
  • PC #1 (Evisceration Standards)
  • PC #2 (Presentation Standards)
• CCP-2B Step 30 Giblet and Neck Harvesting:
  • PC #1 (Evisceration Standards)
• CCP-3B Step 32 Final examination:
  • PC #1 (Evisceration Standards);
  • PC #2 (Presentation Standards);
  • PC #3 (Defect Detection Standards, carcass group)
  • PC #4 (Carcass Dressing Standards)
• CCP-4B Step 34 Salvaging:
  • PC #1 (Evisceration Standards)
  • PC #3 (Defect Detection Standards, carcass group)
  • PC #4 (Carcass Dressing Standards)

The written program for PCs must meet the requirements found in this chapter and shall also contain operator specific information as specified within the FSEP manual.

19.2 Humane Treatment

Please Refer to Chapter 12 – Food animal humane handling and slaughter animal welfare requirements.

19.3 Ante Mortem Inspection/examination

19.3.1 Introduction

An ante mortem examination/inspection within 24 hours preceding slaughter in a registered establishment is a mandatory requirement under the MIR. It is the operator's responsibility to ensure that only those flocks that have received ante mortem examination are permitted to proceed to the slaughter floor.

19.3.1.1 Objectives

Ante mortem inspection/examination serves the following purposes:

• to identify flocks showing clear evidence of being affected with a disease or condition that could render the carcass unfit for human consumption;
• to identify flocks representing a threat to the health of personnel handling the carcasses;
• to identify suspect flocks that require segregation and separate slaughter;
• to identify flocks which are suspected of having been treaded with antibiotics or other chemotherapeutic agents;
• to identify flocks that may result in heavily contaminated carcasses during the evisceration operations;
• to identify flocks suspected of having a reportable or exotic disease;
• to make a disposition regarding the suitability of flocks for slaughter; and
• to identify flocks requiring special handling for humane reasons.

The information obtained at ante mortem is recorded on CFIA/ACIA 5476 form.

19.3.2 Ante mortem Procedures

Additional responsibilities related to care and handling of food animals by industry stakeholders are to be found in Chapter 12 of this Manual.

19.3.2.1 Plant Operators' Responsibilities

The plant operator must:

• perform an ante mortem examination within 24 hours preceding slaughter of all loads of live poultry, whether of domestic or foreign origin (see below for screening procedure). Provision for comprehensive ante mortem screening and examination shall be incorporated into the operator's HACCP Program;
• review the submitted Flock Sheet (MOP 19.3.4.2.4.1) and trucker report/log for each individual lot. A designated employee shall review the flock sheet for completeness and accuracy;

  Note: Should there be any concerns, omissions, or inaccuracies on the Flock Sheet about the health of the flock, or medication withdrawal, extra-label usage of medications or food additives, the plant shall confer with the producer and correct the deviations. The VIC shall be contacted for advice, if there are any concerns regarding mortality, disease or drug usage. In the event of extra label drug use, the producer, through the plant operator, shall provide the VIC with documentation certifying that the gFARAD established withdrawal time has been respected (flock sheet, signed prescription, gFARAD reference number) (MOP 19.3.4.4);

• conduct an examination of a sample of crated animals for general flock health, on each truckload of animals arriving at live receiving. The examination is performed on shipping crates/cages on the vehicle or unloaded into a staging area. Photographs, testimonials and records may be collected at this time by designated plant personnel to document any deviations, as per operator Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
• record each ante mortem examination (including time, findings, appropriate corrective actions if indicated and signature);

  Note: Photographs should preferably have a label within the picture stating the date, time, location and the identity of the particular flock implicated (producer name, barn number, lot number);

• immediately notify the CFIA veterinarian should animals arriving at the plant display any signs of stress, injury, abnormal behaviour, disease symptoms or elevated levels of Dead on Arrivals (DOAs).

19.3.2.2 CFIA Responsibilities

CFIA ante mortem inspection of poultry has three components:

• a review of the advanced copy of the flock sheets for each scheduled lot by a CFIA veterinarian;
• a review by a CFIA veterinarian of the flock sheets (before or during the processing of the lot) accompanying each lot along with the trucker's logs (when available); and
• an inspection by a CFIA veterinarian and/or a designated CFIA inspector of birds in shipping crates either on the transport vehicle or in the staging area, in addition to, birds suspended in shackles on the line moving towards the stunning facilities. In order to detect a condition with a 1% prevalence and with a 95% confidence level in a lot of about 10,000 birds, it is recommended that approximately 300 birds be inspected by the veterinarian;

An ante mortem records is completed, signed and maintained for each ante mortem inspection; (see CFIA Ante mortem Records in Annex A).

Note: The review by a CFIA veterinarian of the flock sheets accompanying each lot, and the inspection by a CFIA veterinarian and/or a designated CFIA inspector of live birds, are normally performed prior to the hanging of the birds and prior to the processing of a lot during the normal working hours of the CFIA veterinarians. However considering the verification role adopted by CFIA under mandatory HACCP, it must be acknowledged that it could take place after the beginning of the processing of a lot, for example in the case of the first lot in the morning upon the arrival of the CFIA veterinarian. It is also accepted that designated CFIA inspectors could be assigned to perform the review of final flock sheets and/or live ante mortem inspection until the arrival and/or availability of a CFIA veterinarian.

• determine if immediate slaughter is required for humane reasons, or, if a disease is suspected, if the flock should be held and tested or slaughtered. Should the CFIA veterinarian suspect a Foreign Animal Disease (FAD), the operator-specific FAD Contingency Plan will go into effect.

19.3.3 Procedures Due to Special Circumstances

19.3.3.1 Suspect, Reactor and Condemned Flocks

Suspect and/or reactor flock crate(s) should be tagged and an ante mortem examination report (CFIA/ACIA 1438) is to be completed giving particulars such as description, identification of flock, details of findings, owner's name, address, etc.

19.3.3.1.1 Suspect Flocks

It is imperative that all suspect flocks be properly identified throughout the slaughter process, i.e., from the live bird receiving room to the final inspection station. Except for immediate slaughter for humane reasons, it is necessary to schedule suspects for separate slaughter, preferably at the end of the regular kill. This minimizes disruption of operations.

19.3.3.1.2 Reactor Flocks

In the case of identified reactors, ante mortem inspection shall be performed while these birds are held in segregation.

All reactors shall be slaughtered separately and apart from the regular kill, and the identity of the flock must be carefully preserved throughout the dressing operation. It is preferable to slaughter reactors at the end of day's kill.

19.3.3.1.3 Flocks Condemned on Ante Mortem Inspection

All flocks condemned on ante mortem inspection shall be identified by a tag or other device showing the word "condemned". In addition, full details (flock identification, owner's name and address, reason for condemnation), should be entered on the ante mortem examination report (CFIA/ACIA 1438).

Following condemnation, birds are to be stunned, killed and removed to the inedible section of the establishment.

Condemned birds and birds which are found dead are not permitted to pass through the evisceration floor or other edible areas of the establishment.

19.3.3.2 Cleaning and Disinfection

Slaughter floor, equipment, yards, etc., which have been used to hold or move suspect, reactor or condemned flocks, are to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, as judged to be necessary by the Veterinarian in Charge.

Trucks and crates used to convey birds for slaughter are to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected under the supervision of an inspector.

19.3.4 Flock Sheets: Producers/Processors Information Exchange

19.3.4.1 Introduction

The flock sheet provides the processor with the necessary level of confidence that identified potential chemical and biological hazards associated with live domestic poultry have been considered, and to the extent possible, controlled and/or prevented at the farm level and/or during transportation. This section covers both minimal information requirements to be maintained by the processing establishment and those to be provided by the producers. Flock sheet data allows CFIA staff to judge if the operator is taking the necessary preventive measures to evaluate incoming flocks according to the written specifications contained in their HACCP system.

The MIR provide a regulatory basis for the mandatory submission and the enforcement thereof of ante mortem information for all shipments of live poultry (excluding ostriches, rheas and emus) received at a registered establishment. The regulations will facilitate auditing of the information on submitted flock sheets and the implementation of on-farm HACCP-consistent programs as developed by national producer associations.

A standardized flock sheet for chickens, turkeys and fowl has been developed on a national basis by the following organizations:

• Chicken Farmers of Canada
• Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency
• Canadian Egg Marketing Agency
• Canadian Broiler Hatching Egg Marketing Agency

A copy of the current standardized flock sheet could be obtained from the respective provincial chicken and/or turkey marketing boards where as plant is located. This standardized copy also applicable to spent broiler breeder flocks, geese, pheasants, quail etc. For other classes of birds, abattoir operators should develop a customized version by either using the flock sheets designed for chicken and turkey as templates or by developing their own provided they contain all the requisite information.

19.3.4.2 Flock Sheets for Chickens and Turkeys

19.3.4.2.1 Information to be Provided by the Producer (or Grower)

Before shipping live birds for the first time to a slaughter establishment, a producer must provide the processor with the name, address and telephone number(s) of the veterinary service(s) servicing their operation. Producers must advise processors of any changes.

• (1) Name and address of the producer and/or individual permanent code;
• (2) Barn number/farm identification;
• (3) Identification of the lot^Footnote 1/ flock number

Existing codes issued by the local marketing boards shall be used for the above-mentioned three items.

• (4) Types of vaccines administered at the hatchery level;
• (5) Number of chicks/poults placed (including extras), date of placement;
• (6) Mortality rate (%), e.g., # dead birds during the growth period in the barn or in a specific lot. Formula: [(Item 5 − Item 14)÷(Item 5) × 100];
• (7) Growing set-up for turkeys (outside or inside);
• (8) All vaccines used/all non-feed medications used (including dates) for which a withdrawal time applies;
• (9) All feed medications (for which a withdrawal time applies) used in the last two (2) feed rations for turkey, and in the last feed ration for chicken;
• (10) Outstanding incidents, disease outbreaks (including those necessitating a medical treatment) during the growth period, e.g., respiratory problems, diarrhea, etc.;
• (11) Origin of animal feed stuffs: i.e., whether the feed was mixed "on-farm" or commercial, and in the latter case, specify if pelletized or loose (mashed); and
• (12) Time (hour : minute) feeders were lifted. Expected time of slaughter and resulting anticipated length of time of feed withdrawal (based on when feeders were lifted and anticipated time of slaughter) as per processor specifications.

Unless information contained in items (1) to (11) are received in a timely manner, processors shall not schedule the pickup of the birds.

19.3.4.2.2 Information to be Provided by the Lead Catcher and/or Carrier:

• (13) Starting and finishing times of bird catching (hour : minutes) on a truck basis;
• (14) Number of birds being shipped; and
• (15) Number of crates on the load and the floor surface area of each crate (type of crate may be sufficient for operator purposes).

19.3.4.2.3 Information to be Provided by the Processor and/or Collated in the Growers' Profile:

• (16) Average bird weight (calculated from the truck weight filled minus the truck weight empty divided by number of birds received);
• (17) Beginning of bird unloading (hour : minutes) on a truck basis;
• (18) Number of dead on arrival (DOA) (# of DOAs on a truck basis);
• (19) Condemnation rate (% for conditions related to the farm level) and benchmarking data to determine lot ranking of total rejections vs. 12 month total rejection average at this establishment (updated every 6 months) for same weight category; and
• (20) Condemnation type (% for a minimum of the three most frequent conditions related to the farm level) and rate (%) of condemned portions for the three to five preceding lots (if recorded), e.g., # kg of parts condemned/# kg processed.

19.3.4.2.4 Steps for the Submission of Information to the Processor by the Producer

Flock sheets shall be submitted according to the following sequence.

19.3.4.2.4.1 Advance Copy

A partially filled "advance" copy shall be sent 3-4 days prior to catching. This copy shall contain the information described in items (1) to (11).

Two (2) days prior to processing, the processor (operator) shall contact the producer (farmer) and provide him/her with the planned catching time and the planned processing time in order to maximize the feed withdrawal process and minimize the contamination during evisceration. At that time, if the advance copy has not been received by the processor, the operator must inform the farmer that the catching crew cannot be scheduled until an advance copy is received by the processor.

19.3.4.2.4.2 Completed Copy

A fully completed copy, including the signed attestation and the signature at the time of loading by the producer, shall accompany the birds at the time of shipment.

When multiple truckloads are transported to the same processor, only one flock sheet is required and it should accompany the first load.

When shipments from one barn are to be sent to different processing plants, each processing plant shall receive an advance copy and a completed version of the flock sheet. This also applies to "trade-in" shipments.

When barns are not emptied all at the same time and various sections/floors are not submitted to the same feed withdrawal protocol, different flock sheets shall be filled for each shipment.

If a flock arrives at the slaughtering establishment without a completed flock sheet, the processor shall immediately contact the producer who will be requested to immediately supply the missing information. The Veterinarian in Charge shall be notified and the flock rescheduled for slaughter pending receipt of the missing information.

If the producer cannot be contacted or if the producer refuses to provide the missing information, the processor shall inform the producer that the birds will be slaughtered subject to the following subsection titled "Enforcement Actions by the CFIA for Missing or Incomplete Flock Sheets".

19.3.4.3 Flock Sheets for Spent Hens or Culled Breeders

In the case of mature poultry (spent chicken or turkey hens or culled breeders), the following subsection outlines the information that must be provided with each lot prior to slaughter for review by the processor and the Veterinarian in Charge. All applicable information (items 9, 14, 16 and 17) must be entered into the computerized database by the operator.

With respect to live imports from the US, it is required that a similar flock sheet and the ante mortem information contained in items (1) to (17) be made available to the Veterinarian in Charge and the evisceration manager with each incoming flock as well as a declaration from US producers regarding the disease free status for each imported flock.

19.3.4.3.1 Information to be Provided by the Producer of Spent Hens or Culled Breeders

Before shipping live birds for the first time to a slaughter establishment, a producer must provide the processor with the name, address and telephone number(s) of the veterinary service(s) servicing their operation. Producers must advise processors of any changes.

• (1) Name and address of the producer and/or individual permanent code;
• (2) Barn number/farm identification;
• (3) Identification of the lot^Footnote 2/flock number.

Existing codes issued by the local marketing boards should be used for the three (3) items for domestic fowl listed above.

• (4) Age of the birds in weeks;
• (5) All vaccines used (including dates) since the pullets were placed within the egg production barns at approximately 20 weeks of age and;
• (6) All feed and water medications used in the last 120 days;
• (7) Outstanding incidents, disease outbreaks (including those necessitating a medical treatment) during the laying period; and
• (8) Suggested catching time by the processor and last feeding time or feed removal (day : hour : minute) prior to loading;

Unless information contained in items (1) to (7) is received in a timely manner, it is recommended that processors not schedule the pickup of the birds.

19.3.4.3.2 Information to be Provided by the Lead Catcher and/or Carrier of Spent Hens or Culled Breeders

• (9) Starting and ending times of bird catching (day : hour : minute) on a truck basis;
• (10) Number of birds being shipped; and
• (11) Number of crates on the load and floor surface area of the crates (type of crate may be sufficient for operator purpose);

19.3.4.3.3 Information to be Provided by the Processor and/or Collated in the Growers' Profile for Spent Hens or Culled Breeders

• (12) Birds' conditions on arrival (dry, wet etc.);
• (13) Average weight of live birds (calculated from the filled truck weight minus the empty truck weight divided by the number of fowl received for slaughter);
• (14) Beginning of bird unloading (day : hour : minute) on a truck basis;
• (15) Number of dead on arrivals (DOAs);
• (16) Condemnation rate (% for a minimum of the three most frequent conditions related to the farm level) and a rate (%) on a carcass basis for the three to five preceding lots; and
• (17) Condemnation type (% for a minimum of the three most frequent conditions related to the farm level) and rate (%) of condemned portions for the three to five preceding lots (if recorded), e.g., # kg of parts condemned/# kg processed.

19.3.4.4 Prevention of Violative Drug Residues

19.3.4.4.1 Drug Type Definitions and Associated Reference Services

Extra Label Use (ELU):

The use of a drug product in a manner that is not consistent with what is indicated on the label, package insert or product monograph of any drug product approved by HC, e.g., alternate species such as chickens versus cattle (or even chickens versus turkeys) or increased dosage.

Note: For the purposes of this section, ELU drugs will include Off-Label Use of drugs as defined below.

Off-Label Use:

Use of an unapproved drug product or drug substance which was never approved by a Canadian regulatory authority. Includes the use of a drug under the EDR program or a vaccine under a single entry permit.

• Canadian Global Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank (cgFARAD):

The cgFARAD provides expert-mediated decision support to veterinarians for any inquiry related to drug or chemical residues in food animals. However, the cgFARAD will not give a recommendation of a withdrawal time for drugs without a Drug Identification Number (DIN). A drug must have been registered for use in Canada for humans or at least one animal species to have a DIN.

Veterinarians wanting to contact cgFARAD: Veterinarians prescribing extra-label use of drugs may obtain a recommendation for a withdrawal interval based on available information contained in the global Food Animal Residue Avoidance Database (gFARAD) by calling the cgFARAD at 1-866-CGFARAD, by emailing cgfarad@umontreal.ca or through the Web site at cgfarad@usask.ca

Note: The Canadian gFARAD is a non profit academic service independent of the CFIA or VDD and may require up to three weeks to respond to a request. Some more common requests may be processed more rapidly.

The Veterinarian in Charge may contact the cgFARAD at 1-866-CGFARAD (cgfarad@umontreal.ca) to discuss the science basis for the withdrawal interval on the flock sheet with the veterinary experts specializing in pharmacokinetics at the cgFARAD.

Canadian Association of Poultry Practitioners (CAPP) Reference table:

Historical compilation from the Canadian Association of Poultry Practitioners, of cgFARAD recommendations to poultry practitioners, presented in table format. Recommendations for new requests are added to the table as received. The following information is attached to every entry:

• the generic and brand names of the drug,
• the species,
• the disease/condition,
• the range of dosages,
• the route of administration,
• the cgFARAD recommended withdrawal period,
• the date the cgFARAD recommendation was made and
• the CAPP reference number.

Access to the reference table is restricted to licensed veterinarians who are members of the CAPP. All entries are linked to the most recent cgFARAD original document (from which nominative information has been removed). Maintenance of the Web site and updates of drug withdrawal periods (minimum of once every two years) is the responsibility of CAPP.

A CFIA Veterinarian in Charge who is not a member of the CAPP may contact the area program network veterinary program specialist to obtain a copy of the CAPP reference table for their personal use. The table is to be treated as a confidential document. It is never to be shown to anyone who is not a veterinarian employed by the CFIA or a member of the CAPP.

CAPP reference number:

Reference number linked to every entry of the CAPP reference table. For new cases, the cgFARAD is consulted and the cgFARAD reference number is used until it is included in the CAPP reference table.

19.3.4.4.2 Extra Label Use of Drugs

Flocks treated with extra label drugs require a copy of the veterinary prescription and accompanying CAPP reference # to be submitted, at the latest, with the advance copy of the flock sheet. If flocks are treated with extra-label drugs after the advance copy of the flock sheet has been submitted, the producer will forward a copy of the veterinary prescription and accompanying CAPP reference number immediately to the processor, and this must be prior to shipping the flock.

19.3.4.4.3 Prescriptions and Determination of the Withdrawal Period for Extra Label Use of Drugs

When extra label use of drugs is required, veterinarians shall supply the producer with a prescription which includes the withdrawal time and the CAPP or cgFARAD reference number for recording on the advance copy of the flock sheet. Veterinarians prescribing extra label use of drugs may obtain a withdrawal period consistent with Canadian regulatory requirements from the CAPP reference table or by contacting the cgFARAD.

19.3.4.4.4 Declaration of Extra Label Drug Use on the Flock Sheets

In the case of extra label drug use, the flock sheet must be completed as normal. In addition, a copy of the veterinary prescription containing information on the withdrawal period, the name of the veterinarian who prescribed the drug, the date of the prescription, the condition being treated and the CAPP reference number must be submitted with the advance copy of the flock sheet.

19.3.4.4.5 Assessment of Medication Information on the Flock Sheets

Operators shall update their specific HACCP system relating to the receiving of live poultry. It shall address the hazard of drug residues to be controlled as reflected in information contained on the flock sheets.

A printed copy of information on drug products approved by HC and available at the aforementioned Web sites is contained in the "Compendium of Medications for Poultry" Published by North American Compendiums Ltd., P.O. Box 39, Hensall, Ontario, N0M 1X0 (Telephone 1-800-350-0627)

For drugs added to medicated feeds, the Compendium of Medicated Ingredients Brochure (MIB) may be consulted on the CFIA web site.

Operators shall provide one or more designated employees to be trained by the Veterinarian in Charge for reviewing the information on the advance copy of the flock sheets. All flock sheets indicating that a veterinary drug was used to treat or prevent a disease shall be referred to the Veterinarian in Charge (VIC). If the advance copy of the flock sheet lists an approved drug, but withdrawal time information is not recorded on the flock sheet, then the operator shall contact the producer for the information. The subject flock shall not be scheduled for pick-up until an amended advance copy of the flock sheet with the missing information is received by the operator.

The processor shall immediately advise the Veterinarian in Charge of the extra label use listing on the flock sheets.

Information recorded on flock sheets related to the use of veterinary drugs should be evaluated during ante mortem examination/inspection at the poultry slaughtering establishment using the decision tree contained in the following section 19.3.4.4.5.2.

19.3.4.4.5.1 Vaccines

Vaccines are also subject to withdrawal times to:

• ensure freedom from tissue damage and/or drug residues at the injection site;
• avoid residues from preservatives in edible tissue; and
• protect humans and/or animals from pathogens in live vaccines.

Withdrawal periods for veterinary vaccines may also be obtained at the aforementioned Web sites (refer to previous sub-section) for veterinary drugs. Withdrawal periods for veterinary vaccines, as contained on the product label approved by the Veterinary Biologics Section, Terrestrial Animal Health Division (TAHD), CFIA, shall also be reported on the flock sheet. Withdrawal times for vaccines are commonly 21 days or longer.

19.3.4.4.5.2 Decision Tree for Assessment of Drugs Listed on a Flock Sheet

Question 1: Banned Drug?

If yes = adulterated. Flocks are to be condemned on ante mortem examination or inspection.

If no = Go to question 2.

Question 2: Approved Drug?

If yes = Go to question 3.

If no = Go to question 4.

Question 3: Was the Drug Used as per the Approved Label?

If yes = Release for slaughter.

If no = Go to question 4.

Question 4: Extra Label Drug – Is there an Attached Copy of a Veterinary Prescription?

If yes, and the veterinary prescription Indicates a withdrawal period obtained from the cgFARAD or the CAPP reference table or
an EDR or a vaccine vial for a vaccine listed on a Single Issue Permit; or Flock tested and attached copy of lab report (see below) indicates compliance with Canadian MRL or AMRL or non-detectable residues;

Then = Release for slaughter

If no = "Hold and Test".

Flocks treated with the Extra – Label Drugs will be slaughtered subject to a "Hold and Test" regime (refer to subsection 19.3.4.4.7 below) if they are received at the establishment without a copy of the corresponding veterinary prescription and the:

• CAPP or cgFARAD reference number; or a
• Copy of the HC issued EDR form indicating a withdrawal period; or a
• Copy of the Single Issue Permit for a vaccine issued by the VBS (Veterinary Biologics Section), CFIA and a copy of the corresponding label indicating a withdrawal period.

The Veterinarian in Charge may at any time, for cause, (e.g., based on past compliance of a producer, pathology visible after evisceration, or other information) require a flock to be tested for specified drug residue(s). In each case, the CFIA area veterinary poultry inspection program specialist shall be contacted to confirm that testing is warranted. All associated costs shall be at the operator's expense.

19.3.4.4.6 Testing Live Birds /Flocks After Extra Label Use of Drugs

Producers in consultation with their veterinarians may test flocks treated with extra label drugs in advance of shipping the flock. Such testing is solely a decision of the producer and cannot be mandated by the CFIA. The laboratory report of such tests should be attached to the advance copy of the flock sheet.

For the CFIA Veterinarian in Charge (VIC) of the federally inspected slaughtering establishment to accept the lab report referred to in the preceding paragraph, the following conditions apply:

• The report must be issued by a laboratory accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) or a provincial or university laboratory using an internationally accepted method for the specific veterinary drug or its corresponding metabolite;
• Samples from the treated flock submitted to the laboratory must be collected, under the supervision of a provincially licensed veterinary poultry practitioner, from live birds which are representative of the flock; and
• The laboratory report indicates compliance with the applicable Canadian Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) or Administrative Maximum Residue Limit (AMRL) as listed in Table III of Division 15 of the Food and Drug Regulations or as listed on the VDD Web site (AMRL) or that there was no detectable residue of the ELU drug or applicable metabolite.

Flocks arriving at a slaughtering establishment without adequate assurance of compliance, (as described above) with Canadian requirements for residues of veterinary drugs will be slaughtered subject to "Hold and Test" procedures as described in subsection 19.3.4.4.7 below.

19.3.4.4.6.1 Assessment of Laboratory Reports

Poultry products are considered to be adulterated if laboratory reports do not indicate compliance with Canadian regulatory requirements for residues of veterinary drugs. All such laboratory reports shall be referred to the Meat Programs Division (MPD) for a food safety hazard evaluation by HC including whether any condemned product may be rendered for use as animal feed.

Canadian MRLs and AMRLs for veterinary drugs are listed on Health Canada's website:

19.3.4.4.7 Hold and Test

Flocks treated with an extra label drug(s) and which arrive at the slaughtering establishment without a copy of a veterinary prescription and one of the following accompanying the flock sheet shall be subjected to a "Hold and Test" regime:

• CAPP or cgFARAD reference number;
• a laboratory report further to live flock testing (refer to previous subsection);
• a copy of the EDR form issued by the VDD, HC, including the withdrawal period; or
• a copy of the permit for the vaccine issued by the VBS, the CFIA and a copy of the label showing a withdrawal period.

The operator shall segregate and hold all edible product (and decide how to store it – fresh or frozen) pending receipt of test results for the applicable drug or its principal metabolites from a laboratory accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) or equivalent – if the Veterinarian in Charge has any questions, s/he should contact the area program network veterinary poultry inspection specialist.

Testing and all associated costs shall be at the operator's expense. The Veterinarian in Charge may in turn wish to contact his/her Area Program Network Veterinary Poultry Inspection specialist or the office of the National Manager, Program Development and Evaluation, Chemical Residue Programs, at the CFIA HQ, for information on SCC accredited laboratories or other laboratories suitable for testing specific drug products.

The operator shall contact his/her selected laboratory to confirm that it is competent to perform the relevant test and to obtain sampling and shipping instructions. Normally each of the following shall be collected as a representative sample from the subject lot and each of the following shall be packaged separately according to instructions from the laboratory:

• 5 drum sticks;
• 5 livers;
• 150 g of intact kidney (not mushed).

A copy of the laboratory test results and the corresponding flock sheet shall be supplied to the Area Poultry Inspection Program veterinary specialist who in turn may contact the CFIA HQ for advice.

Product shall be condemned, subject to CFIA HQ confirmation:

• if a banned drug was used;
• any level is detected in an edible product for an unapproved drug;
• for residue levels above the applicable HC determined MRL or AMRLs; and
• for (any) detectable residues in cases where there is no applicable Canadian MRL or AMRL.

Such residues result in adulterated product under the MIA and Regulations and are prohibited from sale as human food under the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations.

19.3.4.5 Corrective Measures by the CFIA for Missing or Incomplete Flock Sheets

Operators may choose one of the following three options for a flock that arrives at their establishment for slaughter without the requisite completed flock sheet:

Option no. 1

Slaughter the flock subject to all harvested meat products being disposed of as inedible material; or

Option no. 2

Reschedule the slaughter time based on approval of the Veterinarian in Charge and assurances that the missing sheet or information will arrive during the intervening time period; or

Option no. 3

Slaughter the flock subject to the following additional measures to assure control over the chemical and biological hazards for which information is incomplete due to the missing flock sheets:

• the Veterinarian in Charge shall reduce the speed of the evisceration line until the operator can demonstrate control over evisceration accidents and the pathological conditions of the subject flock; and
• segregate and hold by the CFIA all edible meat products harvested from the lot subject to receipt of the original copies of laboratory tests results from an accredited laboratory (performed at the operator's expense) that indicate compliance with the Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) for veterinary drugs as specified by Division 15 of the Food and Drug Regulations and as listed in Chapter 5 of this manual.

Furthermore, the operator shall conduct an investigation to determine how and why the flock arrived at the establishment without a fully completed flock sheet. A report must be provided to the Veterinarian in Charge. The report shall include follow-up action taken to avoid any recurrence.

19.3.4.6 Post mortem Database

At the establishment level, all information must be transmitted to the evisceration manager and be made available to the Veterinarian in Charge for random verification prior to live hanging. Items (18) to (20), from section 19.3.4.2.2, for the last lot processed from a particular barn must be incorporated in the operator's computerized database, and must be made available to the evisceration manager and the Veterinarian in Charge three (3) to five (5) days prior to transporting another lot of birds from that one barn to the slaughtering establishment.

19.3.4.7 Record Retention Period

The processor must keep for a minimum of one (1) year the records relating to the flock sheets and the resulting post mortem database for on-site review by the CFIA Staff.

19.4 Dressing Procedures

It is the operator's responsibility to ensure that all dressing procedures are conducted in a sanitary manner and result in non-adulterated meat products fit for human consumption or animal food.

19.4.1 Poultry Dressing Procedures

19.4.1.1 Bleeding

Bleeding must be conducted in a sanitary manner and the bleeding time shall not be less than 90 seconds.

19.4.1.2 Defeathering and Washing

In the dressing of poultry carcasses, all hair, feathers, dirt, scurf, etc., must be completely removed and the carcass thoroughly washed prior to any further incision being made.

In order to reduce the attachment of Salmonella and other bacteria to the skin, spray washing of carcasses must occur within fifteen (15) seconds after defeathering and after carcass transfer. Sprays at both washing stations shall be of sufficient volume and pressure, to completely remove visible foreign material from the surface of the carcass including the hocks and any exposed surfaces as a result of bleeding or decapitation.

19.4.1.3 Removal of Oil Glands, Heads and Feet

Oil glands, heads and feet may be removed from poultry carcasses, either before or after evisceration. Oil glands, heads and feet removed before evisceration may only be removed after carcasses have been defeathered and thoroughly washed. If feet are presented with the carcass for post mortem inspection or examination, they must be free of visible contamination (e.g., manure).

19.4.1.4 Evisceration

Poultry carcasses must be eviscerated with respect to the following:

• carcasses and viscera must be hung in a way that will allow for internal cavity, viscera and external carcass examination (refer to corresponding Presentation Standards in this Chapter);
• accumulated water present in the vent area, must be removed prior to opening the carcass;
• the integrity of the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) must be maintained throughout venting, opening and evisceration operations for all species of poultry including game birds (refer to the Evisceration Standards described in this chapter);
• the incision made should be no longer than required to permit evisceration; and,
• hands or equipment must be visibly clean before entering the abdominal cavity.

After post mortem inspection or examination, all viscera including the esophagus, crop, cloaca, lungs, trachea, kidneys and reproductive organs, shall be removed from the carcass before the final wash, and shall be handled as inedible material.

Note: Kidneys and reproductive organs for young chicken under 2.7 kg average live weight or young ducks under 4 kg average live weight may be left in.

Oil glands, crops and tracheas are inedible products and may be used as mink food or for the preparation of other animal food.

Prior to the chilling system, the inside and the outside of the carcass shall be adequately washed.

19.4.1.5 Application of a Water Film during Evisceration Procedures

Operators with evisceration equipment designed to completely detach the viscera, may spray the cavity and the viscera provided that:

• consistent and adequate water pressure and volume is supplied to all the spray nozzles applied to the carcass and/or viscera during venting, opening and evisceration operations;
• ongoing testing for generic E. coli indicate compliance with the USDA Pathogen Reduction/HACCP requirements as outlined in the US section of Chapter 11 of this manual; and
• post mortem examination is not compromised by excessive water in the cavity or by loss of significant evidence of disease.

Note: Operators with equipment which does not fully separate the viscera from the carcass are not permitted to shower carcasses or viscera unless the equipment first passes a test under the generic protocol (see Annex C of this chapter).

19.4.1.6 Evisceration Standards (ES)

The Evisceration Standards are a PC to prevent/control contamination caused by accidents during the venting, opening and evisceration operations. These standards support the following processes:

• viscera Defect Detection;
• cavity Defect Detection & Trimming/Final Examination;
• giblets & Neck Harvesting; and
• reprocessing/Reconditioning/Salvaging.

19.4.1.6.1 Elements of the Evisceration Standards (ES)

The ES monitoring tool has two (2) general components:

• Process Evaluation; and
• Corrective Measure(s) evaluation.

The Process Evaluation monitors the contamination caused by accidents during the venting, opening and evisceration operations as described in the ES. It is performed at a consistent frequency on successive lots. It determines if the process meets the standards on an on-going basis.

The Corrective Measure(s) evaluation is an assessment of the adequacy of corrective measures that have been implemented following a rejected sample. It determines if the required corrections have been put into effect to insure that the process meets the standards.

19.4.1.6.2 Facility Requirements for On-line Monitoring Station

The evaluation may be performed at the same station as for the Presentation Standards. For more details on the facility requirements for the ES, refer to the Presentation Standards station under the "Plant Construction and Equipment" section of this chapter.

19.4.1.6.3 Position for the On-line Monitoring ES Station

The monitoring for the ES shall be performed on-line immediately following the evisceration operations (including a back-up employee if required) and before the viscera and/or cavity defect detectors (including the handling of carcasses and/or viscera by other employees) in a manner to avoid sampling bias. The location for the Presentation Standards evaluation may be used for this purpose.

19.4.1.6.4 Training of the ES Establishment Monitor

The ES establishment monitor shall be trained and accredited as per the Training Protocol described in Annex B of this chapter.

19.4.1.6.5 Sampling Procedure

The on-line testing procedure used for the ES shall be similar to the random sampling selection specified for the Defect Detection Standards (DDS), as described in section 19.6.2.5.2.6, "Sampling Procedure". However, the carcass examination area is restricted to the cavity opening (as defined below) and the carcass cavity.

19.4.1.6.6 Sampling Frequency, Sample Size and Acceptance criteria

The interim accept/reject numbers specified in this section are based on the data collected during a national survey performed by the CFIA and Industry. These interim accept/reject numbers shall be used during an abattoir specific implementation phase of 12 months to facilitate the transition between the current abattoir monitoring tool and these national standards. The interim accept/reject numbers may be reassessed at the end of the implementation phase based on data collected in agreement with the CFIA and the processors.

An accredited plant employee shall conduct scheduled tests on the specified number of carcasses on an hourly basis.

The sample size and the interim accept/reject numbers for use during the implementation period for the Evisceration Standards evaluation are indicated in the following table:

19.4.1.6.7 ES Defects

For the purpose of the ES, the cavity opening is defined as the pelvic opening of the carcass including the tissue between the point of the keel, the tip of the tail and the two pelvic bones.

The evaluation of evisceration operations shall include observing for the presence of either the following two (2) defects within the carcass cavity and/or the cavity opening:

• Faecal Contamination: Any identifiable material determined to be from the lower gastrointestinal tract (intestines, caecum, cloaca).
• Ingesta Contamination: Any material determined to be from the upper gastrointestinal tract (crop, gizzard or proventriculus). Dry and localized ingesta covering an area of a dime size or a few isolated grains will not be counted as a defect.

19.4.1.6.8 ES Decision Tree

19.4.1.6.9 ES Defects Log

A separate ES Defects Log shall be used for each species. For abattoirs with more than one shift per day, test results for each shift shall be considered independently because of personnel and supervisor differences and shall be recorded on separate ES Defects Logs.

Carcasses are scored as a defective sample unit for the presence of any distinguishable defect listed in section 19.4.1.6.7, "ES Defects" of this chapter. A carcass showing multiple defects is scored as one defect (e.g., a carcass contaminated with fecal material and with ingesta = one defective carcass).

Defects are scored, a total score is determined and acceptability is determined by comparing the score to the applicable acceptance and rejection numbers.

A copy of the defects log for the ES is included in Annex A of this chapter.

19.4.1.6.10 Process Out of Control – Action to be Taken

Whenever a Process Evaluation is failed the operator shall conduct an investigation to determine the cause and take effective corrective action. The efficiency of the corrective measures is evaluated by performing a Corrective Measure(s) evaluation. Corrective measures and additional corrective measure(s) evaluations are required until one (1) accepted sample demonstrates conformance to the standard. Effective preventative measures must be designed and implemented to prevent a reoccurrence as specified in the written HACCP system of the operator.

If an Evaluation of the corrective measure(s) is rejected, other corrective action must be initiated and the affected product is verified by performing a CDS test on FS-1 (fecal material) and FS-2 (ingesta) ensuring that contaminated carcasses are not entering the chilling system. The decision tree for the CDS shall be followed based on the results of the aforementioned tests.

The Meat Inspection Regulations, 1990 has precedence over the ES decision tree (corrective measures can be mandated at any time by the Veterinarian in Charge).

19.4.1.6.11 CFIA Responsibilities

CFIA staff shall ensure that the ES has been implemented by the operator and is being performed according to this section and the operator's written program. This may be accomplished by performing independent verification tests and/or correlation tests with the industry monitor.

An independent test or a correlation test shall to be performed at a minimum of once per half shift/evisceration line. A minimum of two (2) verification tests (one independent and one verification test) shall be conducted and recorded each week by a veterinarian. The records must show that within one month each veterinarian working at the plant has performed at least one test of each kind.

CFIA staff may perform an additional test at any time as an additional assurance of process control or if they feel that standards are not being met for any reason.

Test results may be recorded on a separate ES Log or on the operator's records such that CFIA tests can be distinguished from tests conducted by the operator's ES monitor.

Also, an indication should be present to differentiate the independent CFIA verification tests from the correlation tests with the industry monitor.

19.4.1.6.11.1 Independent CFIA Verification Tests

The CFIA's independent verification of the operator's process evaluation tests shall be performed according to the following parameters:

• tests shall be performed on each evisceration line, at randomly selected times and according to the prescribed sampling method as indicated in the preceding sub-section 19.4.1.6.5, "Sampling Procedure";
• when a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent test scheduled for that half shift;
• if an independent verification coincides with any of the plant monitor's tests, the inspector shall conduct a correlation test instead of an independent test;
• the sample size will be the same as that used by the operator;
• if the sample is rejected, the ES monitor shall perform an immediate Process Evaluation test and, if applicable, initiate any required action as per the decision tree in this section; and
• the result of each test shall be compared to the operator's monitoring record if the CFIA test result is not in agreement with the operator's tests, the Inspector shall discuss the test results with the (industry) ES monitor and inform the Veterinarian in Charge.

The Decision Tree for ES is to be used by the operator's monitor and for reference by the CFIA.

19.4.1.6.11.2 Correlation Tests

Correlation testing consists of the CFIA conducting an evaluation of a test being performed by the operator's ES monitor according to the following parameters:

• The test shall be performed on each evisceration line. This frequency may be increased according to the operator's compliance to the monitoring procedures of the ES. When a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent CFIA test scheduled for that half shift.
• A member of the inspection staff shall examine the same carcasses at the same time as the industry monitor.
• The monitor will be evaluated for the sampling method used, correct interpretation of defects, completion of forms, and correct application of the decision tree and the implementation of corrective actions if necessary.

If the CFIA's evaluation demonstrates a deficiency in the industry's evisceration process and/or the monitoring thereof, immediate corrective measure(s) shall be initiated by the operator. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be reassessed and amended accordingly.

19.4.2 Domesticated Rabbit Slaughter and Dressing Procedures

In general, the slaughter and dressing of rabbit carcasses follow the procedures described for poultry in this chapter. However, particular attention must be given to the following:

• carcass contamination from dirty hands, knives or pelts must be avoided; and
• contamination by hair during pelt removal must be avoided; the carcass must be rinsed with water afterward to remove fluffy hair (carcasses must be free of all other types of visible contamination before they are subjected to the water rinse).

19.4.2.1 Receiving of Rabbits

Further to section 19.2.1 of this chapter, if the rabbits received at the slaughtering establishment are not in adequate crates, e.g., crates that ensure humane treatment (temperature, ventilation, proper state of repair and cleanliness), the rabbits must be transferred to appropriate crates belonging to the slaughtering establishment.

Each lot received at the slaughtering establishment should be accompanied by a letter of guarantee provided by the producer and containing information on treatments received, withdrawal periods and length of time of feed withdrawal.

19.4.2.2 Stunning

All animals shall be stunned before slaughter.

For humane treatment purpose, the following methods are prohibited in federal slaughtering establishments:

• stunning by means of atlanto-axial elongation;
• rapid decapitation by means of dorsal incision without prior stunning;
• stunning by means of a blow to the back of the head; and
• stunning by means of an electric knife applied to the muzzle and/or to the forehead.

19.4.2.3 Hanging

Hanging should be performed once the animal has been stunned. If the chosen stunning method requires live hanging, the rabbits must be individually supported and be stunned immediately after hanging;

Live rabbits can be handled by gripping the neck skin and/or the ears provided that the hind legs are supported to prevent kicking and injury to the animal and the handler.

19.4.2.4 Bleeding

Bleeding time shall not be less than 90 seconds to permit complete bleeding. Bleeding must be performed by means of simultaneous severance of the jugular veins and carotid arteries. Severance can be performed ventrally or dorsally (incision in the atlanto-axial intervertebral space). In both cases, the stick wound and decapitation surface must be removed later.

19.4.2.5 Dressing

Dressing shall be performed without causing contamination by loose hair.

Once bleeding is completed, the three loose paws are cut at the carpal and tarsal joints.

19.4.2.6 Evisceration

• During the evisceration process, the intestines, bladder, stomach and spleen can be removed before inspection (unless the inspector has given other instructions), as they do not contribute to the inspection process and entail a potential risk of carcass contamination;
• The kidneys must be decapsulated before they are presented for inspection;
• The liver can be left attached to the carcass after removal of the gall bladder or be presented separately for inspection; and
• The hearts, if they are harvested for human consumption, must be incised to remove the clots inside the ventricles.

19.4.2.7 Chilling

Rabbit carcasses and by-products are subject to the same criteria as poultry carcasses and by-products with respect to both temperature and chilling rate. As well, when water is used, no water absorption is permitted under the MIR.

19.4.3 Ritual Slaughter

In ritual slaughter, properly restrained food animals may be slaughtered (bled) without stunning, provided the slaughter is carried out by experienced persons.

Such slaughter shall be performed by a single cut which shall result in rapid, simultaneous and complete severance of the jugular veins and carotid arteries so as to cause rapid unconsciousness and exsanguination of the animal.

19.4.3.1 Halal Slaughter

To be developed

19.4.3.2 Kosher Slaughter

To be developed

19.5 Additional Evisceration Floor Procedures

19.5.1 Salvaging

Operators may elect to handle carcasses accidentally contaminated with gastrointestinal contents by salvaging the non-contaminated portions at either a salvage and/or reprocessing station.

Salvage procedures may be conducted provided the following requirements are met:

• adequate facilities are provided (see Chapter 3 of this manual and refer also to subsection 19.1.3.12 of this chapter);
• salvaging operations are carried out expeditiously and hygienically;
• carcasses are handled according to the disposition criteria;
• station(s) do not become overloaded with a backlog of carcasses; and
• edible product is not contaminated by inedible product or contaminated equipment.

19.5.2 Off-line Reprocessing and Reconditioning

19.5.2.1 Definitions

The definition for Off-line Reprocessing and Off-line Reconditioning can be found in the Glossary of Terms in section 19.1.2 of this chapter.

19.5.2.2 General Requirements

Operators may choose to handle carcasses accidentally contaminated with gastro-intestinal contents and carcasses with localized pathologies within the abdominal cavity at an off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning station.

The following requirements must be met:

• The operator must have a written protocol for off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning which has been approved by the Veterinarian in Charge and the operator must have received conditional acceptance to initiate a trial period to qualify for a trial off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning.
• The written program shall specify which type(s) of contamination or localized lesion will be controlled by the off-line reprocessing procedure.
• Major change to the protocol requires a re-validation.
• The operator must provide adequate facilities (see Chapter 3 of this manual and refer also to subsection 19.1.3.12 of this chapter).
• Off-line reconditioning and/or reprocessing of poultry carcasses must be done within 15 minutes after removal from the evisceration line in order to limit microbial adhesion/growth and carcass dessication/discolouration.
• Cross contamination by carcasses in contact with each other is to be avoided.
• The written procedure shall specify whether or not the crops will be removed prior to reprocessing.
• Carcass rinsing procedures shall ensure that rinse water does not pool and rapidly exits the cavity.
• If carcasses are to be placed directly into the chill system after off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning, dressing must be completed prior to the carcasses entering the chiller.
• If the number of carcasses requiring salvage exceeds the capacity of facilities and/or personnel to handle the carcasses in a timely manner, affected carcasses shall be discarded by the operator as "plant rejects".

19.5.2.3 Acceptance Process

In order to facilitate the CFIA acceptance of the plant-specific off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning procedures, the following acceptance process shall be followed:

• A request is submitted to the Veterinarian in Charge.
• The Veterinarian in Charge and a poultry program specialist will conduct the pre-operational checklist on-site and analyse the plant's written procedure which shall be accompanied by a process and employee flow diagram.
• Upon successful completion of the checklist, on-site analysis of facilities and written procedures, the 20 shift-trial period may begin.
• After the 20-shift trial period, the results of the post-operational checklist, E. coli data and organoleptic monitoring data shall be analysed by the area poultry program team. If the results are acceptable, the area poultry program specialist shall grant CFIA acceptance.

19.5.2.4 Process Validation

The effectiveness of reprocessing and/or reconditioning operations shall be validated according to an operator's written protocol.

For operators that have two shifts, only one process validation is necessary for both slaughter shifts provided there are no significant operational differences between shifts.

For operators that slaughter multiple classes of poultry, e.g., chicken broilers, spent hens and turkeys, a separate process validation shall be conducted for each class. Different weight ranges of the same class shall be considered as one class and require only one process validation, e.g., one process validation for chicken broilers and roasters or for all weight ranges of turkeys.

19.5.2.4.1 E. coli Testing

Procedures shall be validated by using sample collection and laboratory test procedures for generic E. coli as outlined in the USDA's Pathogen Reduction Program and HACCP systems. (See Chapter 11, Exports, section on the US, in this manual.)

19.5.2.4.1.1 Sampling Plan

Collect 50 concurrent samples comprised of one (1) control sample (carcass without defects) collected from the evisceration line just prior to the chilling system; and one (1) treatment sample collected from the reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses after final washing.

Both carcasses must be approximately selected at the same time.

According to a written procedure accepted by the Veterinarian in Charge, samples shall be:

• randomly selected;
• identified in order to differentiate between treated and untreated carcasses; and
• selected after final washing and prior to the chilling system.

The geometric mean of treated carcasses must be equal to or less than that of line run production or not significantly different as determined by statistical analysis.

Note: The CFIA Program Network Poultry Inspection Team (PNPIT) has developed an Excel-based application ("Micro Data Analysis") including a users' manual for this purpose. The operator may wish to obtain a copy from the CFIA area poultry program specialist.

19.5.2.4.2 Organoleptic Testing

19.5.2.4.2.1 Sampling Plans

Reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses shall be retained and sampled a minimum of every 30 minutes by the designated plant monitor over 20 consecutive work shifts subject to verification by the inspection staff and as per the following tables.

Note: The operator must ensure that untreated carcasses (e.g., false positives) and carcasses to be salvaged are excluded from the sampling of treated carcasses.

Based on Sampling Plan 2859-1, Inspection Level II, Statistical Aspects of Food Quality Assurance by Subhash C. Puri, Agriculture Canada, Original source: International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Central Secretariat, Geneva.

19.5.2.4.2.2 Defect Definitions

Refer to the Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS), as contained in section 19.6.2.7 of this Chapter, for definitions for the following defects.

Reprocessing defects (contamination):

• faecal contamination;
• bile contamination; and
• ingesta or extraneous material.

Reconditioning defects (localized pathology):

• airsacculitis;
• salpingitis, peritonitis; and any other pathology within the carcass cavity.

19.5.2.4.2.3 Unsatisfactory Sampling Results

A sample shall be deemed unsatisfactory if one (1) or more carcasses in the sample has a defect within the cavity as listed in the preceding subsection. The operator shall then implement the following:

• retain the lot according to the sample and re-examine all carcasses in the retained lot [defective carcass(es) are sent for salvage and acceptable carcasses are allowed to re-enter production];
• notify the Veterinarian in Charge;
• determine the probable cause and implement applicable corrective actions; and
• amend the written reprocessing and/or reconditioning procedure as necessary

Note: The 20-shift process validation is reset to zero after three (3) unsatisfactory samples have been accumulated.

19.5.2.5 Off-line Procedures After CFIA Approval

19.5.2.5.1 Microbiological Sampling

Reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses may either continue to be tested for E. coli separately or combined with the regular carcasses as specified in the USDA Pathogen Reduction (see Chapter 11, US section of this manual).

If reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses are tested for E. coli separately, then a minimum of one reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcass shall be tested per shift.

19.5.2.5.2 Organoleptic Sampling

The operator shall monitor the off-line procedure using the previously described ISO-based sampling plan, or the CDS program.

19.5.2.5.2.1 Procedure Monitoring by the Operator

The Operator shall ensure that samples are representative (random sampling).

The written program shall also include carcass disposition, retest parameters and review of applicable written and practical procedures in the event of sample failure.

If reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses are placed directly into the chill system, they shall receive separate monitoring at a minimum of twice per shift. Carcasses shall be examined at facilities meeting the same requirements as for the CDS test (see Chapter 3 of this manual). If corrective action or process action is required as a result of these separate tests, it would only apply to the reprocessed and/or reconditioned product.

If the reprocessed and/or reconditioned carcasses are placed back onto the evisceration line and mixed with line run production, then the test results and any required corrective action would apply to the evisceration line and off-line procedures.

19.5.2.5.2.2 CFIA Verification

At a minimum of once per shift, CFIA personnel should evaluate the operator's process control over the off-line reprocessing and/or reconditioning operations by conducting a correlation test with the plant monitor. During the correlation test, CFIA personnel will ensure that the operator's sampling frequency, random sampling methods, defect evaluation, defect recording, evaluation of results and corrective actions taken are acceptable.

If process control is assessed to be unacceptable, the operator must initiate immediate corrective actions. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be amended or re-validated.

19.5.2.6 Defects Log: Off-line Reprocessing/Reconditioning for Chicken, Turkey and Fowl

Please see Annex A of this chapter.

19.5.3 On-line Reprocessing and Reconditioning

19.5.3.1 Definitions

The definition of On-line Reprocessing and On-line Reconditioning can be found in the glossary of terms in section 19.1.2 of this chapter.

19.5.3.2 General Requirements

The following requirements must be met to ensure that contaminated carcasses are satisfactorily reprocessed and that carcasses with localized pathology are satisfactorily reconditioned prior to the carcasses entering the chilling system:

• the operator must be operating under the Phase 3 of the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP);
• the operator's written procedures for on-line reprocessing/reconditioning must be approved by the Veterinarian in Charge, and the operator must receive conditional acceptance from the CFIA to initiate a trial; and
• the written procedures shall include the following:
  • a description of the proposed procedures including, if applicable, the use of any microbial control agents;
  • a copy of a blueprint of the complete evisceration room (including each piece of equipment and the size and location of every industry employee and CFIA work station) a process flow diagram and an employee flow diagram for the entire evisceration room/area; and
  • the sampling location(s) and sample selection, tagging and handling procedures for handling carcasses, for reprocessed/reconditioned carcasses and for "control" carcasses which will be used during the validation period.

19.5.3.3 Location of Cavity Defect Detectors

The cavity of each carcass shall be examined by a cavity defect detector prior to CDS sampling.

19.5.3.3.1 Cavity Defect Detection Prior to Reprocessing/Reconditioning

To be developed

19.5.3.3.2 Cavity Defect Detection after Reprocessing/Reconditioning

If the operator elects to move the cavity defect detectors downstream, version 2 of the Defect Detection Standards (without the AQL for cavity defects) shall be applied.

19.5.3.4 Acceptance Process

The following acceptance process shall be followed:

• a request is submitted to the Veterinarian in Charge;
• the Veterinarian in Charge and a poultry program specialist will conduct the pre-operational checklist on-site and analyse the plant's written procedure;
• upon successful completion of the checklist, the 20 shift-trial period may begin; and
• after the 20-shift trial period, the results of the post-operational checklist, E. coli data and organoleptic monitoring data shall be analysed by the area poultry program team. If the results are acceptable, the area poultry program specialist shall grant CFIA acceptance.

19.5.3.5 Validation Process

E. coli Testing

Refer to section 19.5.2.4.1 under the validation process for the off-line reprocessing and/or reprocessing.

Carcasses with visible cavity defects which are removed by the cavity defect detectors must be excluded from the E. coli evaluation.

Since the on line procedures include both reprocessing and reconditioning, E. coli testing is not required to validate proposed on-line reconditioning. The general hygiene for on-line reconditioning operations is validated by performing E. coli testing for on-line reprocessing.

Organoleptic Testing

The CDS shall be used to validate the proposed on-line reprocessing/reconditioning procedures. Furthermore, CFIA staff may perform additional CDS tests and/or DDS tests for cavity defects (only) after cavity defect detection for part of, or throughout, the validation process. If applicable, corrective measures and post-chill product verification shall be performed by the operator as specified for the CDS/DDS.

19.5.3.6 On-line Procedures After CFIA Approval

19.5.3.6.1 Microbiological Sampling

Refer to the Pathogen Reduction Program of the US section of Chapter 11 of this manual. Laboratory tests for Salmonella spp. and for E. coli shall indicate compliance with the Salmonella spp. standards and the E. coli guidelines respectively, as contained in the US section of Chapter 11 of this manual.

19.5.3.6.2 Organoleptic Sampling

Refer to the CDS as contained in this chapter, including monitoring procedures by the operator and corrective measures.

19.5.3.6.3 CFIA Verification

Refer to the CDS as contained in this chapter.

In addition, CFIA staff, at any time, may perform additional DDS tests for cavity defects (only) after cavity defect detection to verify the performance of the cavity defect detection. If applicable, corrective measures and post-chill product verification shall be performed by the operator as specified for the DDS.

19.5.3.7 Defects Log for On-line Reprocessing/Reconditioning

Please see Annex A of this chapter.

19.5.4 Preparation of Offal for Edible Purposes or Animal Food

Poultry giblets (heart, liver and gizzard) may be prepared for human food provided they are handled according to the disposition criteria in section 19.7 of this chapter.

Giblets shall be chilled immediately after they are harvested and prepared. Accumulation of giblets for later preparation shall not be permitted.

19.5.4.1 Hearts

Poultry hearts may be prepared for human food. Hearts shall have the pericardium removed prior to washing and chilling. After washing, hearts shall be drained and refrigerated.

19.5.4.2 Livers

Poultry livers may be prepared for human food. Livers shall be separated from the viscera and the gall bladder shall be removed without release of bile on edible product, before washing and chilling. Abnormal livers (see subsection 19.7) may be salvaged for animal food.

19.5.4.3 Gizzards

Gizzards shall be separated from viscera, opened and the contents and lining removed, before washing and chilling. Contaminated fat on the outside surface of gizzards shall be removed.

19.5.4.4 Kidneys

Kidneys from poultry shall not be prepared as an edible product.

19.5.4.5 Necks

Poultry necks that are separated from the carcass may be prepared for human food provided they are free of contamination.

19.5.4.6 Ova from Fowl

The salvage of ova from slaughtered laying hens is permitted, provided the following conditions are met:

• Only ova from approved carcasses are collected.
• Ova collection is done under sanitary conditions.
• The product shall be refrigerated immediately after collection to a temperature below 4°C. The product shall be subsequently stored and transported under refrigeration to a registered processing egg station for pasteurization.
• All containers of ova must be identified as such.

19.5.4.7 Poultry Feet or Paws

19.5.4.7.1 Requirements for Edible Poultry Feet or Paws

The salvage of edible poultry feet or paws must be conducted according to the following requirements:

• If feet are removed prior to post mortem inspection /detection, the operator must have a written protocol that has been approved by the Veterinarian in Charge to ensure that feet are not harvested from carcasses rejected or condemned for generalized pathology;
• If feet remain attached to the carcass until after the post mortem inspection /detection, they must not present a contamination hazard. Feet, carcass and equipment surfaces must be maintained visibly clean during operations;
• Epidermis and the toenails are removed;
• Only feet or paws free of faecal contamination are transferred to the edible product processing area;
• All edible feet or paw contact surfaces located in non-refrigerated rooms shall be cleaned as per Chapter 3 of this manual;
• Sorting, trimming and packaging operations shall be performed such that feet or paws ready for packaging are not contaminated by defective feet or paws. There shall be sufficient spatial separation from other processing operations such that the poultry feet or paws do not present a contamination hazard to other processed poultry products;
• Edible poultry feet or paws shall be chilled to 4°C or lower within 4 hours after scalding operations;
• The operator's written protocol for the production of edible poultry feet or paws shall be validated and monitored according to the microbiological and organoleptic requirements included in this section; and
• If the operator has more than one shift, all microbiological and organoleptic sampling described in this section shall be equally distributed amongst the shifts.

Note: If the operator of both the abattoir and the processing establishment has a written protocol signed off by the CFIA officer in charge at both establishments, approved feet or paws may be sent under appropriate controls from one registered slaughter establishment to another registered establishment for scalding, cleaning and further preparation as an edible meat product. The written protocol shall include provisions for validating and monitoring the edible feet or paws according to the following microbiological and organoleptic requirements.

19.5.4.7.2 Organoleptic Defect Definitions

The following accept/reject values apply to post-scald, young chicken feet after they have been sorted by the operator.

19.5.4.7.3 Validation Procedures

19.5.4.7.3.1 Microbiological Requirements:

E. coli counts from packaged, chilled, edible poultry feet or paws shall be validated using the Pathogen Reduction/HACCP systems final rule for poultry carcasses as contained in Annex T of the United States section of Chapter 11 of this manual.

Sufficient samples (minimum of 10 paws per sample) shall be collected to complete one "moving window" for each class of poultry. If the results indicate compliance with the prescribed criteria (e.g., no samples above 1,000 cfu and a maximum of 3 samples greater than 100 cfu in a moving window of 13) then the microbiological validation is deemed to be acceptable.

19.5.4.7.3.2 Organoleptic Requirements:

The validation period is completed once 10 consecutive shifts (minimum of one lot per half shift, minimum 20 samples in total) are accepted. A sample of 50 randomly selected feet shall be selected from each lot.

19.5.4.7.4 Post-Validation Procedures

19.5.4.7.4.1 Microbiological Requirements:

Once the validation procedure is successfully completed, the sample (as per Annex T, of the United States section of Chapter 11) frequency may be reduced to once per week for 2 months and if the samples still meet the criteria, then the testing frequency may be reduced to one randomly selected sample per month. If at any time the samples do not meet the aforementioned criteria, then an investigation shall be conducted to determine the probable cause and corrective action taken as indicated. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be amended and whether or not feet or paw operations should be revalidated.

19.5.4.7.4.2 Organoleptic Requirements:

Once the validation of poultry paw collection has been successfully completed, the operator shall continue to sample each lot with a minimum of one lot per half shift, using a sample of 50 randomly selected feet.

19.5.4.7.5 Corrective Actions Following a Rejected Sample

If a sample fails a test, the entire lot shall be reworked and another sample shall be selected from the same lot. If the second sample fails from the same lot, the entire lot shall be reworked (again), an investigation shall be conducted to determine the probable cause and corrective action shall be taken as indicated. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be amended and whether or not feet or paw operations should be revalidated.

19.5.4.7.6 Evaluation of Process Control by CFIA Personnel

Once per week, CFIA personnel should evaluate the operator's process control as per the requirements of this section. An organoleptic evaluation may be conducted in two ways.

• Evaluate the operator's monitoring methods (e.g., sampling frequency, random sampling methods, defect evaluation, defect recording, evaluation of results, corrective actions taken).
  • If monitoring methods are assessed to be unacceptable, the operator must initiate corrective actions.
• Perform a test once per shift
  • If a sample is rejected, the operator must initiate an immediate retest and implement correctives measures as necessary.
  • If faecal material is found, immediate corrective action must be initiated.

In regards to the microbiological evaluation, CFIA personnel should ensure that the operator is in compliance to the Pathogen Reduction/HACCP systems final rule for poultry carcasses (Annex T, of the United States section of Chapter 11) as contained in this manual.

19.5.4.7.7 Defects Log for Poultry Paws or Feet

Defects shall be recorded by the operator and may be recorded on the Defect Log for Poultry Feet and Paws contained in Annex A of this chapter.

19.5.4.8 Chitterlings

To be developed

19.5.5 Specific Quality Control Programs

19.5.5.1 Head and Feet-on Poultry Carcasses

This policy is also applicable to poultry with just head attached or just feet attached.

The uropygial or oil gland may be left on carcasses with the head and feet attached provided that:

• the carcass is labelled so as to indicate the presence of the oil gland; and
• the oil glands are removed from any portions to ensure that the glands are never incorporated into meat products such as mechanically deboned meat (MSM).

19.5.5.1.1 Requirements for Head and Feet-on Carcasses

Dressing of poultry carcasses with head and feet on may be conducted under the following conditions:

• heads and feet must not present a contamination hazard. All carcass and equipment surfaces must be maintained visibly clean during operations;
• the oral cavity and nostrils must be free of extraneous material prior to
• epidermis and the toenails are removed prior to chilling;
• the feet must be free of faecal contamination prior to the venting and/or opening of the abdominal cavity;
• the removal of processing and trimming defects of head and feet-on carcasses shall be done prior to chilling;
• the operator's written protocol for the production of head and feet-on carcasses shall be validated and monitored according to the microbiological and organoleptic requirements included in this section;
• if the operator has more than one shift, all microbiological and organoleptic sampling described in this section shall be equally distributed amongst the shifts; and
• the written procedure must be accepted by the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.5.5.1.2 Organoleptic Defect Definitions

19.5.5.1.3 Validation Procedures

19.5.5.1.3.1 Microbiological Requirements:

The operator's written protocol for the production of head and feet-on carcasses shall be validated by using sample collections and laboratory test procedures for generic E. coli as outlined in the USDA Pathogen Reduction/HACCP regulations, Chapter 11, section on the United States, Annex T, in this manual.

Microbiological validation consists of the collection of 50 concurrent samples. A concurrent sample is comprised of one carcass without head and feet on (control population) and one carcass with the head and feet on (target population) collected from the evisceration line just prior to entering the chilling system.

The written procedure shall specify the sampling location, how carcasses shall be identified and the random sampling procedure.

The geometric mean of the head and feet-on carcasses must be equal to or less than that of carcasses without head and feet on or not be significantly different as determined by statistical analysis.

The operator shall submit to the CFIA Area Poultry Program specialist the results of all E. coli tests for statistical analysis. Results of the analysis shall be supplied to the Veterinarian in Charge and the operator.

19.5.5.1.3.2 Organoleptic Requirements:

During validation, ISO-based sampling shall be conducted by randomly selecting enough cases to perform a 20 carcass sample at a frequency of once per half shift as per the following table:

The validation period is completed once 10 consecutive shifts (20 samples) are accepted.

19.5.5.1.4 Post-Validation Procedures

19.5.5.1.4.1 Microbiological Requirements

The production of head and feet-on carcasses shall be monitored by using sample collections and laboratory test procedures for generic E. coli as outlined in the USDA Pathogen Reduction/HACCP regulations, Chapter 11, section on the US, Annex Q, in this manual.

The testing frequency is once (1) per week for two (2) months and if the samples still meet the criteria, then the testing frequency may be reduced to one (1) randomly selected sample per month. If at any time the samples do not meet the aforementioned criteria, then an investigation shall be conducted to determine the probable cause and corrective action taken as indicated. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be amended and whether or not feet or paw operations should be revalidated.

19.5.5.1.4.2 Organoleptic Requirements

The operator has the option of continuing to use the ISO sampling plan begun in the validation step or to write an equivalent plant-specific SPC program. For both options, the frequency of sampling shall be conducted as per the following table as a minimum.

19.5.5.1.5 Corrective Action

If a sample fails a test, the affected case(s) shall be reworked and another sample conducted from the same half shift. If the retest fails, the entire half shift shall be reworked, an investigation conducted to determine the probable cause, corrective action taken as indicated. The Veterinarian in Charge shall decide if the written procedure is to be amended and whether or not head and feet-on operations should be revalidated.

19.5.5.1.6 Evaluation of Process Control by CFIA Personnel

Once per week, CFIA personnel should evaluate the operator's process control as per the requirements of this section. An evaluation may be conducted in two ways.

• Evaluate the operator's monitoring methods (e.g., sampling frequency, random sampling methods, defect evaluation, defect recording, evaluation of results, corrective actions taken).
  • If monitoring methods are assessed to be unacceptable, the operator must initiate corrective actions.
• Perform a test as per the sampling plan described in the validation period at the start of this section.
  • If a sample is rejected, the operator must initiate an immediate retest and implement correctives measures as necessary.
  • If faecal material is found, immediate corrective action must be initiated.

In regards to the microbiological evaluation, CFIA personnel should ensure that the operator is in compliance to the Pathogen Reduction/HACCP systems final rule for poultry carcasses (Annex Q, of the United States section of Chapter 11) as contained in this manual.

19.5.5.1.7 Defects Log for Head and Feet-on Carcasses

A Head and Feet-on Carcass Defects Log has been provided in Annex A of this chapter to record the sample results.

19.5.5.2 Head-on Rabbit Carcasses

A domesticated rabbit may be dressed with the head on.

The operator's written protocol must include the applicable conditions from the head-on poultry subsection (section 19.5.5.1) and must be approved by the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.5.5.3 Removal of Condemned Poultry Legs

19.5.5.3.1 General Requirements

An approved written quality control program is required to ensure that all condemned legs are removed prior to cut-up, boning, packaging or shipping. For MPIP, identified legs will not be counted as a defect under the CDS.

Legs with pathological conditions that may cause cross contamination (e.g., cellulites) shall be removed prior to water immersion chillers.

A written quality control program must consist of the following parts:

• A flow chart of the operation indicating the position of employees identifying legs for removal, removing the legs and where checks on the effectiveness of the system are made;
• Quality control programs using knife cuts as identification may be approved providing that the cut:
  • is easily seen from all sides of the carcass at normal line speeds; and
  • is distinguishable from any other cuts;
• A description of the following controls:
  • the frequency and method of monitoring;
  • the records that will be kept; and
  • the action that will be taken if condemned or marked legs are missed.

Any proposed program should be discussed with the Veterinarian in Charge for approval by the area poultry inspection specialist.

19.5.6 Microbial Control Interventions for the Treatment of Carcasses and their Parts

Refer to the sub-section with the same preceding title as contained in Chapter 17, "Ante and Post mortem Inspection Procedures, Dispositions, Monitoring and Controls – Red Meat Species, Ostriches, Rheas and Emus", of this manual.

Note: For chlorine, including the handling of product potentially exposed to chlorine in excess of the Health Canada limits, refer to Chapter 5, "Sampling and Testing", sub-section "Chlorine", of this manual.

19.6 Post Mortem Inspection/Examination

Operators of poultry slaughtering establishments may choose to operate under the following methods of post mortem inspection:

• Traditional inspection; and
• Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP)

The MIR refer to MPIP as a "post mortem examination program."

It is the responsibility of the operator to ensure that all carcasses and parts are presented for post mortem examination in such a way as to permit proper inspection, providing adequate facilities.

Condemned or rejected meat products shall be handled in accordance with Chapter 3 of this manual.

19.6.1 Traditional Inspection Method for Poultry

All classes of poultry may be inspected under traditional inspection.

Under traditional inspection, a CFIA inspector inspects the carcass exterior, the abdominal cavity and the corresponding viscera of each carcass. Only one (1) station is permitted for operators of newly registered poultry abattoirs under traditional inspection.

Operators shall provide one (1) or more competent plant employees, referred to as a helper, who shall be positioned next to each inspector. As directed by the inspector, the helper shall:

• remove identified carcasses and corresponding viscera from the evisceration line for veterinary examination or for disposal;
• remove carcasses with processing defects for off-line salvaging or reprocessing (refer to section 19.5.2 of this chapter);
• recording the reason for rejecting each carcass as instructed by the CFIA inspector; and
• trim abnormal localized conditions and correct minor dressing errors.

Operators wishing to remove condemned poultry legs not under the direct supervision of the post mortem inspectors shall submit a proposal to the Veterinarian in Charge as per section 19.5.5.3 of this chapter.

19.6.1.1 Traditional Presentation Standards

19.6.1.1.1 Introduction

These traditional presentation standards are to be used for the presentation of carcasses and viscera under the traditional method of inspection.

Consistent post mortem presentation is a must in order to ensure optimal inspection efficiency for all classes of poultry. Therefore, carcasses presented for post mortem inspection shall be hung in such a way as to facilitate the examination of the external surfaces, the internal cavity, the internal organs and the viscera.

19.6.1.1.2 General Requirements

19.6.1.1.2.1 Operator's Responsibilities

The operator is responsible for providing consistently adequate presentation of carcasses for inspection. Therefore the operator must:

• train and assign plant employees in the proper presentation of carcasses for inspection; and
• provide adequate facilities as specified in Chapter 3 of this manual.

19.6.1.1.2.2 CFIA Responsibilities

The inspection staff monitors presentation compliance by performing presentation tests at each inspection station and on each evisceration line, and take appropriate action when the presentation standards are not met.

The inspection staff must:

• carry out the test required to assess the presentation of carcasses for inspection; and
• communicate test results and any requirements for corrective measures to appropriate plant personnel.

19.6.1.1.3 Defects Associated with Improper Presentation

19.6.1.1.3.1 Defects Monitored by the Presentation Standards

19.6.1.1.3.1.1 Outside Carcass Errors

• Front or Side (weight of 11)
  Carcasses arriving other than with back towards the inspector.
• Hung By One Leg (weight of 9)
  Carcasses arriving with both legs not properly suspended in the shackle.
• Carcasses Swinging (weight of 6)
  Carcasses arriving with sufficient swinging motion to interfere with the inspection process. Excessive swing is defined as movements at 30 degrees or more to the chain and away from the inspector.
• Viscera Not Uniform (weight of 6)
  Carcasses arriving with viscera on the opposite side of normal presentation or in the middle of the abdominal opening.
• Contaminated Viscera (weight of 6)
  Carcasses arriving with contaminated viscera requiring the inspector to wash his/her hands.
• Viscera Below Wing (weight of 12)
  Carcasses arriving with the heart and/or the liver (and/or not the spleen in the case of birds over 8 weeks) below the wing breast joint.
• Viscera Not Free (weight of 10)
  Carcasses arriving with viscera not adequately separated from the abdominal fat pad and suspended alongside the carcass. If only a cross strip of fat is present, it will be considered that the viscera are free.
• Viscera in Shackle (weight of 8)
  Carcasses arriving with visceral organs hung in shackle.
• Out of Sequence (weight of 15) Carcasses arriving on guide bar out of sequence for the inspection station due to kick-out malfunction or missing the kick-out.
• No Viscera (weight of 20)
  Carcasses arriving without viscera. Those carcasses arriving with one or two organs, i.e., heart and/or liver (and/or the spleen in the case of birds over 2.7 kg) missing, will be scored with a weight of 5.

19.6.1.1.3.1.2 Inside Carcass Errors

• Membrane (weight of 2)
  Carcasses arriving with the inside cavity obstructed by the air sac membrane from viscera to cavity.
• Opening Cut (weight of 1)
  Carcasses arriving with inside cavity obstructed by an inadequate opening cut. This includes cross strips of skin, the anus or cloaca still in the carcass or any other obstacle to appropriate inspection located in the area of the opening cut. It has been found that a cut made within 2 cm (3 cm for turkeys) to the point of the keel is an adequate opening.
• Not Reflected (weight of 2)
  Carcasses arriving with the viscera not reflecting the appropriate abdominal flap.
• Parts Inside (weight of 1)
  Carcasses arriving with one or more of the visceral organs^Footnote 5 left in the cavity.
• Contamination Inside (weight of 6)
  Carcasses arriving with contamination occurring on the inside surfaces of the carcass.
• Mutilation (weight of 2)
  Carcasses arriving with internal mutilation caused by the vent or evisceration equipment.

19.6.1.1.3.1.3 Line Speed

Each carcass per minute exceeding the current maximum equals one error with a weight of 5.

19.6.1.1.3.2 Other Defects Controlled by the HACCP System

The following categories of carcasses will be hung-back by the presenter or the inspector's helper for correction and post-mortem inspection. These other defects shall be controlled by the operator as part of the operator's written HACCP system. No error will be recorded on a presentation check for these defects.

In the case of a recurrence, the operator will be notified and 5 demerit points will be recorded on the "Defects Log: Traditional Presentation Standard" for each subsequent defect. These other defects are as follows:

• Not Opened – Carcasses arrives at the inspection station with no opening cut made in the carcass;
• Not Drawn – Carcass arrives at the inspection station with opening cut made but with viscera insufficiently drawn to permit inspection; or
• Two Legs Out of Shackle – Carcass arrives at inspection station hung by the neck or wing.

19.6.1.1.4 Presentation Monitoring by CFIA Personnel

19.6.1.1.4.1 Sampling Method

Each test (random tests and retests) consists of two separate 10 carcass observations, one for outside errors and the second for inside errors.

The sampling must be done to avoid sample bias. Randomly select a carcass by picking one, then count a predetermined number of carcasses, e.g., third one, and then examine this carcass and corresponding viscera. This carcass shall be the first one of the sample.

Repeat the procedure for each subsequent carcass until the required number is examined.

The outside of 10 carcasses per station will be checked for any of the listed outside errors. This test will be conducted off-line with the person conducting the test standing behind and between the presenter and the inspector. Each error observed will be recorded on the "Defect Log: Traditional Presentation Standard" form included in Annex A of this chapter.

Then at the same station, but with the person doing the test standing on line between the presenter and the inspector, 10 additional carcasses will be observed for listed inside errors. Each error observed will be recorded on the "Defect Log: Traditional Presentation Standard" included in Annex A of this chapter.

The last part of all checks is the line speed check.

The outside and inside errors are converted to a weighted score, and added to any line speed error to determine the total non-conformance for each inspection station.

19.6.1.1.4.2 Sampling Frequency

The frequency of presentation checks on each eviscerating line is once per half shift. The frequency can be reduced to once per line/shift with growing confidence in the operational compliance. The frequency can also be increased with loss of confidence.

19.6.1.1.4.3 Aggregate Results and Actions Required

During a random sampling:

• If any weighted non-conformance total is 25 through 39, or 3 or more of the same presentation errors occur, the operator is required to take immediate corrective action within 10 minutes before a retest of the affected station;
• If any test result has a total non-conformance weight of 40 or more, the line speed must be reduced by 10% immediately, corrective actions implemented and a retest conducted within 10 minutes. The increment used for the line speed increase is equivalent to the increment used for line speed reduction.

During a retest:

• If any retest total is 25 or more, or 3 or more of the same presentation errors occur, the line speed must be reduced by 10% immediately, corrective actions implemented, and a retest conducted within minutes;
• Line speed reductions of 10% continue on each retest until a total of 24 or less and 2 or less of any one error is achieved or until the third line speed reduction in a row for presentation has taken place; or
• Line speeds will be increased by allowed increments to the maximum speed permitted only after presentation control is satisfactory (24 or less and 2 or less incidences of the same errors) has been demonstrated. When line speeds are increased, process control must again be demonstrated for this station at the higher line speed as soon as possible and not more than 10 minutes after each increase.

When three consecutive line speed reductions for presentation non-conformance on one line do not result in acceptable presentation on that line, the VIC must:

• evaluate the presentation problem;
• determine the effect the presentation problem is having on post mortem inspection and operational sanitation; and
• determine acceptable presentation at less than 70% of optimum line speed.

Each element of the process control and their interaction are explained below and are presented in the decision tree.

The MIR have precedence over the presentation decision tree (corrective measure(s) can be mandated at any time by the VIC).

19.6.1.1.4.4 Records

Because of shift to shift and day to day differences in plant staffing and supervision, the presentation results of each shift and each production day will be independent of all other presentation results. There will be a new presentation form and a new start for each station, each shift and each production day.

A sample Traditional Presentation Standards monitoring form is available in Annex A of this chapter.

19.6.1.1.5 Traditional Presentation Standard Monitoring Decision Tree

19.6.1.2 Line Speeds for Traditional Inspection

Line speeds listed in the following table are the maximum line speeds which are permitted only under optimal conditions consistent with good presentation, average incidence of pathology (disease) and effective process control over trimming/dressing defects and evisceration accidents. Failure by the operator to take effective corrective action may result in line speed reductions imposed by the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.6.1.2.1 Maximum Line Speeds for Poultry Under Traditional Inspection

These speeds represent the maximum number of carcasses that may pass by the inspection station every hour on the assumption that the line moves at a constant speed without stopping and that each shackle is full.

19.6.2 Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP)

19.6.2.1 Introduction

The Modernized Poultry Inspection Program or MPIP is a post mortem examination program as defined in section 2 of the Meat Inspection Regulations, 1990 (MIR). The following subsections of this chapter contain the requirements for the MPIP, as referred to in section 29.1 (3) of the MIR.

A CFIA veterinarian shall be present throughout evisceration operations at the establishment.

19.6.2.1.1 Definition of MPIP

MPIP is a HACCP and science-based inspection system that focuses on the slaughter process within the gate to plate food safety continuum. MPIP represents the latest Canadian advance in the evolution of poultry inspection methodology.

19.6.2.1.2 Objectives:

• Provide the CFIA and industry personnel with the policies and procedures that contribute to the uniformity of interpretation and consistency in the implementation of the MPIP.
• Control hazards associated with food-borne pathogens during the slaughter and processing of poultry.
• Promote the proactive control (prevent, eliminate or reduce) of hazards through the implementation of a CFIA-recognized HACCP system in poultry slaughtering establishments.
• Facilitate the change from prescriptive regulatory requirements to objective performance standards in poultry inspection.
• Facilitate the transition of CFIA staff from hands-on inspection to audit-based verification activities.
• Facilitate the assumption by industry of the responsibility for the detection and handling of defective carcasses under continuous government oversight.
• Respond to changing international trade requirements, e.g., Pathogen Reduction and HACCP Program Rule in the US.

19.6.2.1.3 CFIA MPIP Training and Certification

As per the "Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP) Certification Program", all employees of the CFIA assigned on a regular basis or providing relief in poultry slaughtering establishments operating under MPIP must be certified.

19.6.2.2 MPIP Implementation

19.6.2.2.1 Introduction

An operator in a registered establishment, or an operator sending an application to be registered, may request to implement a post mortem examination program or MPIP.

The implementation of MPIP consists of three phases:

• Phase 1 – Preparatory Period
• Phase 2 – Trial Period
• Phase 3 – Implementation Period

The steps for implementing MPIP under each phase are described below. All checklists (i.e., assessment, implementation or others) pertinent to MPIP referred to in the following sub-sections may be obtained from the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist.

Slaughter operations shall initially comply with a post mortem inspection system performed by CFIA inspectors, as described under the "Traditional inspection method" section in this Chapter. The inspectors assigned to the plant shall be trained under the Traditional Inspection System and the Traditional Presentation Standards.

The operator is expected to take traditional line speed caps into consideration when calculating expected daily kill goals.

19.6.2.2.2 Preliminary Assessment

Step 1

An operator interested in implementing MPIP shall submit a letter of request to the Regional Director with a copy to the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist as per article 29.1 of the MIR, "Post mortem Examination Program".

The request shall include blueprints and a project description showing the positions/locations of the inspectors and company employees at the different phases of the implementation and must be presented to the CFIA Area Program Specialist before the beginning of the next phase. The number and location of inspectors and plant employees may vary from one phase to the next.

Upon receipt of an acceptable request, a two (2) station traditional inspection environment, and corresponding line speed, may be allowed at the discretion of the Regional Director and Area Poultry Program Specialist.

Step 2

The Regional Director shall forward the operator's request to the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist who then assembles an assessment team with the following suggested composition:

• Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist;
• The Veterinarian in Charge; and
• The Inspection Manager and/or the local Regional Veterinary Officer covering the establishment.

Step 3

The assessment team assesses the suitability of the blue print and the project description submission prior to acceptance based on compliance with the following criteria:

• facility requirements and line configuration;
• training program and work plan for defect detectors, Evisceration Standards, Presentation Standards, DDS and CDS monitors as per Annex B of this chapter; and
• a HACCP written program and Pathogen Reduction Program.

Note: For an existing registered establishment, the assessment will also include the compliance history of the operator.

A specific checklist entitled "Pre – MPIP Initial MPIP Assessment Checklist – Prior to Phase 1 (Preparatory Phase)" shall be completed by the assessment team for this purpose.

Minor deficiencies may be addressed through acceptable action plans.

Step 4

The assessment team shall state, on the preceding checklist, the terms and conditions required to be completed prior to initiating operations in an MPIP environment. A copy of this assessment is forwarded to the Regional Director and the operator.

• If the request is accepted, the CFIA personnel from the establishment and the operator are informed that the request to implement MPIP has been approved; the operator may then schedule a Phase 1 start date;
• If the request is refused, the Area MPIP Assessment Team shall explain the decision and rationale to the Regional Director and the operator.

Step 5

Certified MPIP trainers shall organize training workshop(s) to certify CFIA staff.

• The Veterinarian in Charge and one or more inspectors shall receive several days of practical training in one or more MPIP plants.

19.6.2.2.3 Preparatory Period (1st Phase)

Step 6

The operator may switch to a Pre-MPIP environment (carcass/cavity detection, Evisceration Standards, Presentation Standards, DDS and CDS) when the CFIA operational requirement can be met and when plant employees' level of training and expertise with Pre-MPIP can facilitate a functional Pre-MPIP environment as determined by the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist and VIC. If the operator desires to remain eligible to export to the United States, a written request must be submit to the VIC for the CFIA to continue staffing this station as an "export" station (refer to Chapter 11, Exports, of this manual).

CFIA staffing and maximum line speeds during the "MPIP Preparatory Period" (Phase 1) shall be determined by the Area Assessment Team depending on the ergonomic facilities and the presentation of the carcasses and corresponding viscera. An onsite review of the establishment is required to ensure MPIP facility requirements have been met. Line speeds may be increased during the MPIP Preparatory Period (Phase 1), once the operator has implemented carcass/cavity detection, Evisceration Standards, Presentation Standards, DDS and CDS by accredited employees. In this case, the maximum line speed shall be approved by the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist and the Veterinarian in Charge as per the following:

• 7200 cph for chicken
• 6360 cph for light fowl under 2 kg (live weight)
• 5760 cph for heavy fowl over 2 kg (live weight)
• 3600 cph for light turkey at or under 8 kg
• 3300 cph for heavy turkey over 8 kg

Step 7

The implementation team along with the Veterinarian in Charge shall:

• review the operator's correction of any non-conformities identified during the initial assessment including requisite amendments to the operator's HACCP system; and
• review the evisceration line area with the operator with respect to work and inspection station requirements for Phase 2, as detailed in this chapter.

Step 8

CFIA personnel from the establishment and CFIA replacements receive MPIP training and certification as per the CFIA "National Meat Hygiene Training Program Volume 1: Implementation Guide".

Step 9

Training for Presentation Standards, Defect Detection Standards (DDS) and the Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS) shall be implemented prior to commencing Phase 2. A complete description of DDS and CDS is contained in this chapter.

Step 10

MPIP industry training material is provided to the Veterinarian in Charge or the delegated MPIP-certified inspector in order to train and accredit establishment trainers. As required, the local Regional Director shall arrange for additional veterinary support to permit the Veterinarian in Charge to perform training and accreditation duties at the establishment.

Step 11

Once they are accredited, establishment trainers are to then train and accredit all other establishment employees as per the "Training and Accreditation Protocol", in Annex B of this chapter.

Step 12

The Area Implementation Team shall use the checklist entitled "Pre – MPIP Implementation Assessment Checklist – Phase 1 (Preparatory Phase) to Phase 2 (Trial Phase)" to evaluate the following requirements in order to commence Phase 2, Trial Period:

• the operator's Pathogen Reduction Program is operational and included in the HACCP system;
• establishment QC are accredited to administer the DDS, CDS and Presentation Standards;
• establishment trainers are accredited and a sufficient number of defect detectors have passed the prerequisite tests; and
• the evisceration line has been modified as per work and inspection station requirements for the Trial Period (Phase 2).

Based on the result of this checklist, the implementation team shall recommend the commencement of Phase 2 or that Phase 1 be continued pending the completion of all requirements. A copy of this assessment is forwarded to the Regional Director.

19.6.2.2.4 Trial Period (2nd Phase)

It is strongly recommended that the CFIA and establishment staff hold weekly meetings throughout Phase 2 to discuss any issues related to the ongoing implementation of MPIP.

Step 13

The same number of on-line CFIA inspectors is required during Phase 2, Trial Period, as inspection stations staffed under the operator's previous post mortem inspection system.

Note: A complete description of DDS testing procedures during Phase 2 of MPIP implementation is contained in this subsection.

Step 14

Defect detectors must pass four (4) additional on-line tests during the trial period as per the "Training and Accreditation Protocol", Annex B of this chapter.

Step 15

The inspection staff shall provide feedback to the establishment trainer on the performance of their defect detectors.

At the end of Phase 2:

• When the Veterinarian in Charge is satisfied that defect detectors are performing adequately, he or she may locate the CFIA viscera Inspector downstream; and
• When switching from Traditional inspection to MPIP, if the operator desires to remain eligible to export to the United States and has not submitted a request as described in Step 6, a written request must be submit to the VIC for CFIA to continue staffing this station as an "export" station (refer to Chapter 11, Exports, of this manual).

Step 16

The Veterinarian in Charge shall notify the Regional Director when the operator is ready to proceed to Phase 3 so that an MPIP system and compliance verification review can be conducted.

The MPIP implementation team shall conduct this review to assess compliance to all of the elements of the MPIP policy.

• If performance is acceptable, the operator may enter Phase 3.
• If the operator does not exhibit optimum performance, then the trial period shall continue until performance is acceptable or the operator formally withdraws its MPIP application.

The result of the evaluation and recommendations to proceed or not to proceed to Phase 3 shall be communicated to the operator and the local Regional Director.

A specific checklist entitled "Checklist For MPIP System Compliance And Verification – Phase 2 (Trial Phase) to Phase 3 (Implementation Phase)" shall be completed for this step. A copy of the corrective action(s) required by the operator shall be attached to this checklist. Follow-up activities to be performed by specific CFIA personnel shall be specified in the comments section of the checklist completed by the implementation team.

19.6.2.2.5 Implementation Period (3rd Phase)

There are no maximum line speeds for MPIP. Rather, line speeds are determined by the performance of industry defect detectors and by compliance with MPIP requirements.

Step 17

The following operational modifications shall be made according to the roles and responsibilities of CFIA staff under Phase 3:

• CFIA staffing levels may be reduced; and
• cost recovery fees shall be recalculated based on remaining CFIA inspection stations and inspection staff tasks.

Step 18

Phase 3 shall last a minimum of 3 months. MPIP establishments operating in Phase 3 shall undergo regulatory verification of their MPIP system at the end of the 3 months probationary period. This verification will be conducted by a team comprised of certified area MPIP reviewers. After successful completion of the MPIP Compliance Review, the review shall be conducted on an annual basis. In each case, a specific checklist entitled "Checklist For MPIP System Compliance And Verification – Phase 2 (Trial Phase) to Phase 3 (Implementation Phase)" shall be completed.

19.6.2.2.6 MPIP Requirements for CFIA Inspection Stations

Veterinary Disposition Station (refer to section 19.7.5)

A fully equipped and staffed veterinary disposition station shall be provided by the operator as a prerequisite to receiving a condemnation report from CFIA. Under the framework of the Poultry Rejection Project, the rejection process and the performance of industry rejecters shall be assessed by a CFIA veterinarian.

Evisceration Floor Inspector Station

The entire evisceration, dressing and chilling areas shall comprise the "station" for the evisceration floor inspector. The operator shall provide on-line and/or off-line inspection stations for CFIA inspection staff performing independent or correlation sampling and testing under the Evisceration, Presentation, Defect Detection and Carcass Dressing Standards programs for use by the designated industry personnel and/or CFIA inspection staff. The evisceration floor inspector must also have full access to salvaging and on/off-line reprocessing/reconditioning operations and shall perform all tasks assigned by the Compliance Verification System (CVS) program applicable to poultry dressing, evisceration and chilling operations.

CFIA personnel must maintain a permanent presence within the carcass dressing and evisceration area throughout processing operations.

Note: Additional inspection tasks related to the plant specific upstream and downstream processes from the evisceration floor such as ante mortem verifications and post-chilling process verifications must be delivered as per program requirements.

19.6.2.3 Presentation Standards for the MPIP Inspection System

19.6.2.3.1 Introduction

Presentation standards are used as a Process Control (PC) to contribute to the effectiveness of the related CCP(s) and post mortem examination activities.

Presentation standards aid accredited cavity and viscera defect detectors to carry out their responsibilities in compliance with defect detection standards by ensuring that carcasses and corresponding viscera are presented in a uniform and consistent manner. These standards are designed to ensure that evidence of disease is not lost (e.g., missing viscera) nor hidden (e.g., inadequate abdominal opening) during visual examination by the defect detectors.

Effective control by the operator over the presentation of carcasses and viscera reduces the verification frequency and corrective actions by inspection personnel. Additionally, industry employees must be empowered to take immediate action whenever they notice a potential loss of control. This includes loss of presentation control e.g., excessive missing viscera.

19.6.2.3.2 General Requirements

Presentation standards are applicable to all types of evisceration procedures regardless of the technology used, i.e., whether manual evisceration or automated evisceration equipment leaves the viscera either attached or physically separated from the corresponding carcass.

Presentation monitoring tests are performed on each evisceration line at a presentation test station located after evisceration and prior to viscera detection. Carcasses correctly identified by the cavity defect detectors for removal by the helper/trimmer shall not be included in the sampling for the presentation tests.

All industry employees performing presentation tests shall be trained and accredited as per the "Training and Accreditation Protocol" as per Annex B of this chapter.

19.6.2.3.3 Defects Related to Improper Presentation

19.6.2.3.3.1 Defects to be Monitored by the Presentation Standard

During presentation monitoring, the following three (3) defects shall be counted as presentation errors. These defects are described in the following sub-section and included within the AQL for presentation tests:

1. no viscera;
2. viscera parts missing; and
3. inadequate abdominal opening.

19.6.2.3.3.2 Description of Presentation Errors

The following is a description of presentation errors:

No Viscera

• For chicken, turkey and quail – carcasses are presented without the viscera or the viscera are presented with the heart and liver missing.
• For fowl – the duodenum must be missing in addition to the liver and the heart.

Viscera Parts Missing

• For chicken, turkey and quail – presentation of the viscera with over ½ of the heart or over ½ of the liver missing. There must be at least one intact lobe of the liver present for defect detection purposes.
• For fowl – presentation of the viscera with over ½ of the heart or over ½ of the liver missing or the duodenum missing, with a maximum of one defect per carcass. Multiply the total number of hearts missing by 0.1.
• For mature poultry (including chicken roasters) – missing spleens count as an error if a significant percentage are missing as determined by the VIC.

If a missing heart is combined with a missing liver or a missing duodenum, a maximum of one defect is counted.

Inadequate Abdominal Opening

Presentation of carcasses with an inadequate abdominal opening makes it impossible to examine the abdominal cavity properly. This may result from pieces of skin or flesh obstructing the opening, the anus or cloaca that have remained attached, or any obstacle located in the incision hampering the presentation and view inside. The abdominal opening must be large enough to allow presentation and examination of the inside of the carcass.

For chicken and light fowl, a cut made within 2 cm of the point of the keel is adequate.

For turkey, heavy fowl and roasters, a cut made within 3 cm of the point of the keel is adequate.

For quail, a cut made within 1.5 cm of the point of the keel having a minimum opening diameter of 2.8 cm is adequate. Mutilated carcasses having obstructions which interfere with examination of the cavity shall also be scored as an "Inadequate Abdominal Opening".

Unless specified otherwise, each of the above listed errors will receive a score of one (1) with a maximum of one (1) error allowed per carcass.

19.6.2.3.3.3 Other Defects to be Controlled by the HACCP System

The following six defects (1 to 6) shall not be included as errors as part of the presentation tests and are not included in the AQL for the presentation tests. Rather, they shall be controlled as part of the operator's HACCP system:

1. unopened carcass
   carcass without any abdominal incision;
2. viscera not removed from cavity
   carcass with an abdominal incision but viscera are not sufficiently drawn from the abdominal cavity to permit detection or inspection;
3. carcass not hung by legs
   carcass hung by the neck or a wing;
4. water pooled within the cavity
   accumulated water may mask evidence of pathological and/or processing defects (e.g., Airsacculitis and faecal contamination);
5. contaminated viscera
   severe contamination to the extent that evidence of pathology is obscured (e.g., generalized Airsacculitis); and
6. hearts and livers not visible
   viscera portions to be examined are present, but hidden behind the gizzard on a consistent basis.

Carcasses with presentation defects (1) to (3) shall be removed from the line (before or by the helper/trimmer) for verification of cavity and viscera defects. They shall be identified and kept separate from carcasses for salvaging and not be allowed to unduly accumulate on racks. Errors shall be corrected as quickly as possible, and the carcasses rehung on the line in order not to compromise product safety due to bacterial multiplication. If not, they shall be condemned as "plant rejects". Refer to section 19.7.4.22 of this chapter for more information on "plant rejects".

19.6.2.3.4 Presentation Standards Monitoring

Random sampling for presentation testing is performed by the operator using an "Acceptance Sampling Plan", ISO 2859-1, Special Inspection S-4.

The Presentation Standards monitoring tool has two (2) general components:

• Process evaluation; and
• Corrective measure(s) evaluation.

The process evaluation monitors the presentation defects described in this standard to insure that they do not exceed the established Acceptance Quality Limit. It is performed at a consistent frequency on successive lots. It determines if the process meets the standards on an on-going basis.

The corrective measure(s) evaluation is an assessment of the adequacy of corrective measures that have been implemented following a rejected sample. It determines when the process is back under control.

19.6.2.3.4.1 Testing Frequencies

The frequency of industry monitoring and CFIA verification tests on each eviscerating line shall be based on the operator's ability to maintain uniform carcass presentation. This frequency may be reduced when there is confidence in the operator's presentation control, or it shall be increased when this confidence has been lost, according to the following table.

19.6.2.3.4.2 Sampling Procedure

The sampling must be done at constant intervals, e.g., every fifth carcass, every third carcass, etc. To avoid sample bias, randomly select a carcass by picking one, then count a predetermined number of carcasses, e.g., third one, and then examine this carcass and corresponding viscera. This carcass shall be the first one of the sample. Repeat the procedure for each subsequent carcass until the required number is examined.

The last step consists of checking the line speed.

The total of error incidences is the score for that inspection station and eviscerating line.

19.6.2.3.4.3 Sample Size and Acceptance/Rejection Criteria

The sample size and the applicable accept and reject numbers shall be governed by the line speed range as shown in the following table.

19.6.2.3.4.4 Process Out of Control – Action to be Taken

Management has the responsibility to implement timely and effective corrective actions immediately following each presentation test indicating that the number of presentation defects has reached or exceeded the reject number. In each case, they must inform CFIA personnel and must conduct an investigation to determine the probable cause to help decide on the best course of corrective action.

If the total of missing viscera, for all species, reaches half of the rejection number, or, if the total of missing heart, for turkey and quail, reaches the rejection number, the VIC shall determine if the defects are significant considering the pathology associated with the specific flock. In these instances, corrective actions are required to ensure proper detection of pathology.

Corrective actions implemented by the operator commonly include one or more of the following:

• equipment adjustment and/or maintenance;
• adding employees;
• reducing the line speed (if extra time is required by the defect detectors to examine the carcass and/or viscera due to excessive presentation defects);
• changing the flock (e.g., if extra time is required for the birds to empty their intestines); and,
• temporarily suspending the hanging of live birds.

A corrective measure(s) evaluation shall be conducted within 10 minutes of the failed test in order to evaluate the corrective action(s) implemented.

If a line speed reduction is chosen as the corrective action by the operator or is enforced by CFIA staff, then retests must be done 10 minutes after a line speed decrease or increase.

Immediately following a failed corrective measure(s) evaluation, the presentation standards monitor shall notify the designated representative of the operator and CFIA personnel. An automatic line speed reduction of 10% shall be implemented if a line speed reduction was not included as a corrective action following the previous failed sample. If the corrective action taken by the operator fails to reduce the following evaluations to an acceptable level, then the operator shall re-assess the presentation status, implement additional corrective actions and apply another 10% line speed reduction.

After one (1) accepted corrective measure(s) evaluation, not exceeding the acceptance number (Ac), the process is back to normal process evaluation since the evaluation determined that implemented corrective measures have been adequate.

If three (3) consecutive corrective measure(s) evaluation tests are rejected, the operator and /or the VIC shall:

• determine to what extent the deviations from the presentation standards affect the detection of defective carcasses and viscera;
• evaluate and approve further corrective action(s);
• determine if live hanging operations may continue;
• the operator shall evaluate and assure the safety and wholesomeness of affected product (evaluation results shall be confirmed by the VIC);
• a written action plan, endorsed by the operator and designed to resolve and prevent a recurrence and including amendments to the HACCP system, shall be submitted to the VIC.

In the case of recurring non-compliance, unusually high condemnation rates or consistently ineffective corrective action, the VIC shall be kept aware of all test results for analysis and possible further action.

Each element of the process control and their interaction are explained below and are presented in the decision tree.

The MIR have precedence over the presentation decision tree (corrective measure(s) can be mandated at any time by the VIC).

19.6.2.3.4.5 Records

A separate Presentation Log form (see Annex A of this chapter) shall be used for each class of poultry or shift. If more than one species are slaughtered, the log must clearly indicate which tests correspond to which species slaughtered, e.g., with inserted blue or red vertical lines.

Because of differences of personnel and supervisors between shifts, test results for each shift shall be considered independently.

19.6.2.3.4.6 Line Speed

The line speed must be recorded for all tests. There is no maximum line speed for MPIP provided operations remain in compliance with MPIP requirements. However, if the line speed is reduced as a corrective action, then exceeding the decreased line speed is counted as a defect. Furthermore, management must immediately correct the line speed.

19.6.2.3.5 CFIA Responsibilities

The CFIA staff shall ensure that the presentation standards have been implemented and are being performed according to the operator's written program. Time(s) for the presentation test(s) shall be randomly selected prior to the start of the shift. This may be accomplished by performing independent verification tests and/or correlation tests with the industry monitor.

An independent test or a correlation test shall to be performed at a minimum of once per half shift/evisceration line. A minimum of two verification tests (one (1) independent and one (1) verification test) shall be performed and recorded each week by a veterinarian. The records must show that within one month each veterinarian working at the plant has performed at least one test of each kind.

The Presentation Standard Decision Tree is to be used by the presentation standards monitor and for reference by the CFIA.

The CFIA may perform an additional presentation test at any time as an additional assurance of process control or if they feel that standards are not being met for any reason.

19.6.2.3.5.1 Independent Verification Tests

The CFIA's independent verification tests shall be performed according to the following parameters:

• tests shall be performed on each evisceration line at the frequency indicated and according to the procedure previously described and an independent test shall be performed on each evisceration line;
• if the CFIA test result is equal to or exceeds the rejection number, the operator shall perform an immediate process evaluation test and, if required, initiate any action according to the presentation decision tree;
• the result of each test shall be compared to the operator's monitoring record; if the CFIA test result is not in agreement with the operator's tests, the Inspector shall discuss the test results with the (industry) presentation standards monitor and inform the VIC; and
• CFIA test results may be recorded on a separate Presentation Log (see Annex A of this chapter) or on the operator's records such that CFIA tests can be distinguished from tests conducted by the operator's presentation standards monitor.

19.6.2.3.5.2 Correlation Tests

Correlation testing consists of the CFIA conducting an evaluation of a test being performed by the operator's presentation standards monitor according to the following parameters:

• tests shall be performed on each evisceration line at the frequency indicated and according to the procedure previously described and a correlation test shall be performed on each evisceration line; this frequency may be increased according to the operator's compliance to the monitoring procedures and when a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent CFIA test scheduled for that half shift;
• a member of the CFIA inspection staff shall examine the same carcasses at the same time as the industry monitor; and
• the monitor will be evaluated for the correct interpretation of defects, completion of forms, correct application of the decision tree and the implementation of corrective actions if necessary.

If the CFIA's evaluation demonstrates a lack of compliance to the presentation standard and/or the monitoring thereof, immediate corrective measures shall be initiated by the operator. The VIC shall decide if the written procedure is to be reassessed and amended accordingly.

19.6.2.3.6 Decision Tree for MPIP Presentation Standard Monitoring

19.6.2.4 Defect Detection

Under the MPIP, designated defect detection employees shall be responsible for the detection of carcass, cavity and viscera defects on a carcass-by-carcass basis, so that defective carcasses are removed from the evisceration line.

Each carcass, cavity and viscera set must be visually examined.

The defect detection process shall be monitored as per the Defect Detection Standards (DDS) as part of the operator's HACCP System.

19.6.2.4.1 Training and Accreditation of Defect Detectors

Refer to Annex B of this chapter (Training and Accreditation Protocol).

19.6.2.4.2 Carcass Defect Detection Before Evisceration

Carcass defect detectors shall identify and remove obviously condemnable carcasses before evisceration. Preselection procedures must be performed at the transfer point from the slaughter line to the evisceration line, or at any other point selected by the operator prior to the eviscerator(s). It is generally accepted that there are few occasions in turkey processing for which preselection is required on an ongoing basis – especially where removal of obviously condemnable birds is performed at the farm level. MPIP therefore leaves to the discretion of the operator of the turkey slaughter establishment the option of implementing preselection based on the flock sheet information. Obviously condemnable turkey carcasses preselected by the carcass defect detector(s) need not be removed provided that such carcasses:

• are identified or marked;
• are not eviscerated;
• do not contact subsequent on-line employees and equipment; and
• are removed by the helper/trimmer after the defect detectors.

Note: The CFIA may require turkey flock preselection if turkey flocks show evidence of poor health, or of other defects or have not been properly handled. Lighting and facilities for holding preselected turkey carcasses must be readily available on site.

19.6.2.4.2.1 List of Carcass Defects

Carcasses affected with the following conditions are to be removed before evisceration. See the following section for a detailed explanation of each defect.

NT: Not Trimmable (too extensive for trimming)
NTOL: Not Trimmable On-line (too extensive for trimming at normal line speed)

The following conditions may be too extensive to be trimmed (they will be condemned as "obviously condemnable") before evisceration or may be less extensive so as to be trimmable off-line in a hygienic and expeditious fashion before chilling. See the following section for a detailed explanation of each defect.

NTOL: Not Trimmable On-line (too extensive for trimming at normal line speed)

19.6.2.4.2.2 Definitions of Carcass Defects

Arthritis/Synovitis/Tenosynovitis:

Carcasses affected with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon and/or presence of liquid and solid material within the joint are to be removed from the evisceration line if they are also emaciated.

Ascites (water belly):

Carcasses showing distended or ballooned abdomen (fluid wave) are to be removed from the evisceration.

For chicken, carcasses showing distended or ballooned abdomen (fluid wave) are to be removed from the evisceration only if they show evidence of associated conditions (e.g., emaciation and/or dark color and/or subcutaneous œdema).

Note: If the evaluation for the associated conditions for chicken carcasses cannot be performed on-line, all carcasses showing distended or ballooned abdomen (fluid wave) must be removed from the evisceration line for further assessment by a company detector or rejecter. If the operator has adequate facilities to segregate carcasses to prevent cross contamination, then affected carcasses without associated conditions may be put back on the line. Such carcasses must be returned to the evisceration line within 10 minutes of having been removed from the line.

Affected carcasses without secondary assessment performed by the operator (not showing associated conditions) presented to the CFIA veterinarian will be disposed of by the operator and will not be included on the condemnation/rejection reports.

Avian Keratoacanthoma:

This skin condition is a formation of deep crater-shaped ulcers mainly on the back. Remove the carcass if the affected skin area is too large to trim on-line.

Cellulitis:

Thickened, yellow coloured skin (may be with a honeycombed appearance). Remove chicken carcasses with Peri-Cloacal Cellulitis. Chicken carcasses with skin lesions smaller than 2 cm × 2 cm, including lesions on the legs and the wings of any dimension, may be passed if included within the operator's HACCP system. Remove turkey and fowl carcasses with extensive Cellulitis lesions. The Veterinarian in Charge will determine the criteria for the size of lesions which may be trimmed on-line for turkeys. Carcasses with scratches with only slight thickening and yellowing of the skin, not affecting underlying tissue, can be trimmed on-line.

Dark Coloured Carcasses (Cyanosis):

Carcasses with a dark blue-purple colour are to be removed from the line. Mild to moderately blue carcasses should be passed if the darker discolouration is the only significant finding, e.g., not emaciated. Carcasses with extremity petechiation ("blood spots"), but are otherwise normal, should be passed.

Emaciation:

Carcasses with extreme thinness and that are dark coloured must be removed from the line. Carcasses which are small (but with good finish or fleshing) may also be culled by the establishment detectors but are to be considered as a plant reject.

Extensive Bruising:

Carcasses must be removed if the affected area is too large to be trimmed on-line.

Inadequate Bleeding:

Carcasses with deep to brick red colour (head may still be attached or incomplete or no neck cut). For carcasses which are mildly red/blue, refer to the definition of Dark Coloured Carcasses (Cyanosis).

Marek's Disease (Cutaneous Marek's):

Enlarged feather follicles often with yellowish coloured surrounding skin. Remove the carcass if the affected skin area is too large to trim on-line.

Mutilation:

Extensive crushing and/or deformation too large to be trimmed on-line.

Over scald:

Damaged skin/muscle too large to be trimmed on-line caused by an over scalding.

Pendulous Crop:

Carcasses are to be removed from the line only if affected with extensive pendulous crops (representing a risk of contamination), or if associated with poor carcass condition (emaciated), or if the carcass has a bad odour.

Sternal Bursitis/Infected Breast Blister:

Usually found in the breast or the keel area, sternal bursitis may be the result of a skin infection or a pectoral cyst. Remove the carcass if the affected area is too large to trim on-line.

Xanthomatosis:

Thick yellowish swellings may be present in the wattles, breast, abdomen and legs. The swelling may become a pendulous mass filled with a honey coloured liquid. Remove the carcass if the affected area is too large to trim on-line.

19.6.2.4.3 Cavity and Viscera Defect Detection After Evisceration

Depending on the speed of the evisceration lines, cavity and viscera defect detection may be performed:

• on a unit-by-unit basis where each defect detector examines the cavity and the viscera of the carcasses presented for examination; or
• on a sequential basis, where all the cavities are examined by specific cavity detectors and all the viscera are examined by a separate viscera defect detector.

The operator may position the viscera defect detector(s) either before or after the cavity defect detectors. However, viscera sets must be presented with their corresponding carcasses throughout the viscera defect detection and the Defect Detection Standards (DDS) testing zones.

The cavity defect detectors shall be positioned before cavities are vacuumed and prior to the internal/external carcass washer unless the operator uses an approved on-line reprocessing and reconditioning process, as explained in this chapter.

Detailed procedures for defect detection, i.e., body position and eye movement sequence, must be established by the operator of each establishment based on the type of equipment used and the layout of the defect detection stations.

All identified carcasses must be either immediately removed or be signalled for removal from the line by a helper/trimmer. The defective carcasses shall be removed with the corresponding viscera in order to maintain their corresponding identity for disposition.

The operator may evaluate the need for an optional detector's helper that removes carcasses signalled by the detectors. The use of a detector's helper should be based on the following:

• ante mortem information;
• the grower's profile; and
• the quality of the incoming lot.

Industry cavity and viscera defect detectors must be empowered to take immediate action whenever they notice a potential loss of control.

19.6.2.4.3.1 Viscera Defect Detection

In descending order, the viscera detector's priorities are to:

• examine each viscera for defects;

  Note: For fowl, palpate the duodenum and/or perform other procedures which are effective for detecting all carcasses with Adenocarcinoma.

• signal carcasses for removal according to agreed codes (if applicable);
• signal the presence of obviously condemnable carcasses that should have been removed from the line prior to evisceration; and
• in some cases, and under the Veterinarian in Charge's discretion, remove defective carcasses and/or viscera from the line if there is no helper/trimmer.

Contamination on the viscera and pathological conditions only affecting the viscera (not affecting the carcass) are not to be counted as a defect if the operator is either not harvesting edible viscera or if an effective program is included within a HACCP system which ensures that affected viscera are not harvested as edible. The Veterinarian in Charge or Evisceration Floor Inspector shall ensure that viscera harvesting operations are appropriately conducted in accordance with the operator's HACCP system.

19.6.2.4.3.1.1 List of Viscera Defects

19.6.2.4.3.1.2 Definitions of Viscera Defects

Adenocarcinoma:

Whitish to yellow malignant nodules/tumours usually 3 mm to 5 mm and frequently present in the duodenal loop of the small intestine. Size varies and distribution can extend throughout the mesentery and peritoneum sometimes invading the ovary. All carcasses exhibiting such lesions must be removed from the evisceration line.

Airsacculitis:

Remove the carcass and corresponding viscera if there is evidence of caseous material covering the pericardial sac (the surface of the heart has white or yellow material) or if the pericardial liquid contains caseous material. Do not remove the carcass or viscera if there are minor white spots on the heart or minor adhesions on the envelope of the heart.

For turkey, the carcass and corresponding viscera are removed if there is evidence of caseous material covering the pericardial sac and in the airsacs. Only the affected viscera are removed if no material is found in the airsacs.

Contamination:

Contamination of the edible portion of the viscera may come from different sources:

• Faecal contamination – Any visible material determined to be from the lower gastrointestinal tract.
• Ingesta – The undigested contents of the crop, gizzard or proventriculus. Remove viscera with liquid or dry ingesta content. Dry and localized ingesta covering an area of a dime or less or a few isolated grains will not be considered as a defect.
• Extraneous material – Grease stains or other foreign material on the viscera.

Emaciation:

Extremely thin carcasses in poor conditions. The remaining fat, on the heart and gizzard, is in a moist, pinkish, sticky and jelly-like consistency.

Hepatitis:

Carcass and viscera are to be removed if the liver exhibits multiple visible white/yellow or green-black spots of any size or shape. In turkey, only the liver is to be removed.

The liver only is to be removed if it is green and enlarged and firm (hard), or if the liver displays multiple pinpoint red spots, or if the liver displays evident signs of ascites (bosselated, cobblestone) with or without pinpoint red spots (petechial haemorrhages).

Note: Carcass and viscera are to be passed if the liver has a normal size, sharp edges, (regardless of the colour of the liver), or if the liver exhibits signs of a fatty liver (light brown, yellowish) even though they are enlarged.

Marek's Disease (Visceral Marek's):

If visceral tumours (white nodules) are present, the carcass is to be removed from the line.

Peritonitis:

Inflammation of the lining of the abdominal viscera often seen with red tags, as a whitish to yellow, opaque, cheesy exudates, and with an off odour.

Septicaemia or Toxaemia:

These are the acute conditions which may present various signs, i.e., haemorrhages on single or multiples organs and in the cavity, congestion of various organs. In those cases, the CFIA VIC should be consulted to identify the cause of the identified lesions.

Note: In Canada, Septicaemia or Toxaemia can only be confirmed through lab analysis.

Tumors (Leiomyoma and Hemangioma):

The benign growth found in the meso-salpinx (membrane enveloping the oviduct) is very common and is not considered malignant. Carcasses with tumours such as Leiomyoma and Hemangioma must be left on the evisceration line. However, the viscera must be removed and discarded.

19.6.2.4.3.2 Cavity Defect Detection

The cavity defect detector is not required to remove carcasses signalled for removal. If they are properly identified, these carcasses may be removed later by the helper/trimmer or by other on-line employees.

In descending order, the cavity detector's priorities are to:

• examine each cavity and abdominal opening for defects (e.g., Faecal Contamination, Peri-Cloacal Cellulitis);
• signal carcasses with specified defects for removal or trimming according to agreed codes (if applicable);
• if applicable, function as presenters (if the operator elects to combine presentation and cavity detection duties) to permit examination of the entire cavity in establishments with eviscerator(s) which do not separate the viscera from the carcass (if applicable); and
• signal the presence of obviously condemnable carcasses that should have been removed from the line prior to evisceration.

19.6.2.4.3.2.1 Definition of Cavity Defects

Airsacculitis:

All carcasses with liquid or solid material in the air sacs or in the lungs, left inside the cavity, measuring greater than 3 mm (5 mm for turkey) are to be removed. Carcasses with lesions that are very well capsulated by a very thick membrane of the air sacs must also be identified.

Cellulitis (Peri-Cloacal):

Thickened, yellow coloured skin. Remove carcasses with cellulitis lesions on the peri-cloacal area.

Contamination:

Contamination of the carcass cavity and/or viscera may come from different sources:

• Faecal contamination: Any visible material determined to be from the lower gastrointestinal tract within the abdominal cavity.
• Ingesta: The undigested contents of the crop, gizzard or proventriculus (liquid or solid) which have contaminated the carcass cavity. Dry and localized ingesta covering an area of a dime or less or a few isolated grains will not be considered as a defect if the operator is not performing on-line reprocessing.
• Bile Contamination: Bile stains causing a discolouration of affected tissue.
• Extraneous material: Grease stains or other foreign material within the abdominal cavity.
• Intestine/Cloaca: Refers to a length of intestine/cloaca attached to the carcass or inside the cavity and is associated with evisceration lines equipped with a new technology system. The cause is improperly adjusted equipment; the length of intestine/cloaca still attached to the carcass or inside the cavity will contaminate the internal cavity with faeces or, if it enters the giblet harvesting process, it will spread faecal contamination onto both equipment and product.

Salpingitis:

This is an infection of the oviduct or salpinx, the reproductive organ of pullets. It is characterized by the presence of liquid or solid material, which is usually yellowish in colour. Very often the tissues surrounding the salpinx become viscous. All viscera exhibiting such lesions must be removed from the evisceration line. Any presence of solid or liquid material within the salpinx observed during examination must be recorded as a defect.

Tumours:

Any enlarged abnormal irregular mass of tissue in the internal cavity.

In Quails, yellowish granules of various sizes (1 mm to 15 mm) located in the air sacs or attached to abdominal cavity (Granuloma).

19.6.2.4.4 Hanging Back and Sorting Carcasses

Carcasses removed from any point along the evisceration line must be submitted to a post mortem examination (defect detection) unless they are rejected by the operator.

Such carcasses shall be examined off-line and sorted into four categories by an accredited defect detector, and are to be handled as follows:

• normal carcasses – returned to the evisceration line;
• carcasses with localized pathology – send for off-line salvaging, trimming or reconditioning or for on-line reconditioning;
• carcasses with processing defects – send for off-line reprocessing or salvage or for on-line reprocessing; and
• carcasses suspected of having generalized pathology diseases or conditions – send for detailed veterinary inspection or examination by a rejecter under the rejection process.

Note: Carcasses removed from the evisceration line for suspected generalized pathology shall be sent to the rejecter or veterinarian.

For products eligible for export to the United States, refer to the procedure concerning carcasses removed from the evisceration line outlined in Chapter 11, "Exports".

19.6.2.4.5 Monitoring Activities by the Operator

The carcass, cavity and viscera defect detection and removal process shall be monitored by the operator on a regular basis by using the Defect Detection Standards (DDS) as described under section 19.6.2.5 of this chapter. If defective carcasses are missed at preselection or at post-evisceration, corrective measures shall be initiated as per the DDS.

Monitoring test results should be periodically, or upon request, be correlated with the CFIA.

19.6.2.5 Defect Detection Standards (DDS)

DDS are used as a Process Control (PC) to contribute to the effectiveness of the related CCP(s) and post mortem examination activities.

DDS are designed to encompass defects affecting the carcass exterior, cavity and viscera. A separate AQL is assigned to carcass defects, to cavity defects and to viscera defects. All three (3) AQLs, including a zero tolerance for septicaemia/toxaemia apply to abattoirs operating under the MPIP. However, for operators phasing out CPIP, the viscera defects and the corresponding AQL for viscera defects do not apply until the operator commences Phase 3 of implementing the MPIP.

19.6.2.5.1 Sampling for Carcasses Using Sampling Plans Indexed by AQL

The defect detection process monitoring is performed using an acceptance sampling plan, the ISO 2859-1 sampling plan.

• The acceptance quality level (AQL) is the maximum percent defective (or the maximum number of defects per 100 units) that, for the purposes of sampling inspection, can be considered satisfactory as a process average (ISO 2859-1:1999).
• The acceptance number (Ac) is the largest number of defects permitted in a sample in order that the lot be accepted for a specific acceptance quality limit.
• A lot is the equivalent of one hour of production volume per evisceration line per shift.
• Sampling time to be randomly selected for each hour of production.
• A nonconformity is a poultry carcass with one or more processing or pathological defects as defined in this section. A defective carcass is a carcass with a defect that cannot be corrected on the evisceration line, i.e., a carcass requiring disposition and with extensive processing defects.
• Other carcasses with defects that are not considered as nonconforming items under the present system are referred to as carcasses with on-line trimmable defects.
• Once the MPIP Phase 3 commences, the switching rules shall be utilized as per the "DDS Decision Tree".

19.6.2.5.2 Elements of Defect Detection Standards (DDS)

The DDS monitoring tool has three general components:

• Process evaluation;
• Corrective measure(s) evaluation; and
• Post chill production verification.

The process evaluation monitors the removal of defective carcasses as described in this standard. It is performed at a consistent frequency on successive lots. It determines if the process meets the standards on an on-going basis.

The corrective measure(s) evaluation is an assessment of the adequacy of corrective measures that have been implemented following a rejected sample. It determines when the process meets the standards on an on-going basis.

The post chill product verification is to be used to insure that potentially defective product of rejected lots meet the standard or should be held for rework.

DDS have been established in two (2) versions. The difference between the versions is the addition or exclusion of the internal cavity defects evaluation.

• "Version 1" applies to an operator that does not use an approved on-line reprocessing and reconditioning process (or during validation). The monitoring defects have been divided into three (3) groups: carcass defect group, viscera defect group and cavity defect group (including Septicaemia /Toxaemia).
• "Version 2" applies to an operator that does use an approved on-line reprocessing and reconditioning process (or during validation). Under this version, the cavity defects are removed such that two (2) defect groups are to be evaluated: carcass defect group and viscera defect group (including Septicaemia/Toxaemia).

19.6.2.5.2.1 Position for the On-line Monitoring DDS Station

• downstream from the team of establishment carcass/viscera/cavity detectors (under version 2, cavity detectors may be positioned after the DDS station); and
• before or after the helper/trimmer; and
• before viscera is harvested (or discarded) or the carcass is trimmed (other than by the helper/trimmer) and before the internal cavity is vacuumed.

19.6.2.5.2.2 Facility Requirements for On-line Monitoring Station

Refer to the "Plant Construction and Equipment" section of this chapter.

19.6.2.5.2.3 Testing Frequency and Sample Size

The DDS monitoring tests are based on a lot-by-lot evaluation determined to be an hour's production. Therefore, accredited plant employees shall conduct scheduled randomized tests, once every hour of production, on a specified number of carcasses and corresponding viscera at the on-line station. Times for the tests shall be randomly selected prior to the start of the shift. The process evaluation shall always remain on a production lot of an hour.

19.6.2.5.2.4 National Survey: Prevalence of Missed Defects in Passed Carcasses

Data collected during a national survey of chicken, turkey, fowl and quail abattoirs was updated based on data collected from abattoirs operating under MPIP.

19.6.2.5.2.5 National AQLs and Monitoring Defects Lists

The National AQLs were determined based on prevalence data resulting from national surveys in slaughtering establishments.

Note: There is a "zero" tolerance for the Septicaemia/Toxaemia defect in the Carcass and Viscera Defect Groups.

The following defects shall be counted during defect detection monitoring. A carcass showing multiple defects shall be scored as one defective carcass. These defects are described previously in this section.

19.6.2.5.2.6 Sampling Procedure

Tests shall be conducted to reflect the performance of the defect detectors without being influenced by the on-line CFIA inspector(s).

All defect groups are to be evaluated using the same carcass sample.

Each sampled carcass must be fully examined (i.e., the carcass exterior, the corresponding viscera and the carcass cavity for version 1). The following step-by-step sampling procedure has been developed to facilitate national uniformity and is designed to ensure that each carcass has an equal chance of being selected. Carcasses must be selected as described below to prevent sampling bias.

Step 1. Randomly select a time for the test (minimum once/hr). At the selected time, begin the test by randomly identifying a carcass and picking the third subsequent carcass to be the first carcass in the sample. If the carcass lacks corresponding viscera, then pick the next complete set of carcass and viscera.

Step 2. Visually examine the carcass exterior, the viscera (heart and liver for young chickens and turkeys plus intestines and spleen for mature poultry) and the carcass cavity (under version 2, the cavity examination is not required). The order of the examination is at the discretion of the monitor to permit the most efficient inspection possible consistent with the presentation of the carcass and corresponding viscera.

Step 3. If a missed defect is suspected, immediately remove the carcass and if applicable, the corresponding viscera, and hang it/them back on the rack provided.

Step 4. Mentally count (add) the carcass, or use a mechanical counter for larger sample sizes (e.g., 125 carcasses).

Step 5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 until the sample size has been reached. (refer to the following table)

Step 6. After completing the on-line examination of the carcasses comprising the sample, carefully examine each hung-back carcass (and its viscera) and determine if it is defective. Record all defects on the form provided in Annex A.

Step 7. Determine if the sample indicates that the lot passed or failed. Take appropriate control action, if warranted, including those indicated by the switching rules for the Decision Tree below.

Step 8. Release removed carcasses for disposition or correction by a designated establishment employee or for the return of normal carcasses to the evisceration line.

19.6.2.5.2.7 Acceptance and Rejection Numbers

Note: Septicaemia / toxaemia has a "zero" tolerance

19.6.2.5.2.8 Process Out of Control – Action to be Taken

During the process evaluation, each defect group is to be monitored independently of the other defect groups, using the same sample.

When the test result reaches the rejection number for a specific defect group, it indicates that the process is under questionable control. Therefore, corrective measures must be implemented for this specific defect group and additional on-line testing is required.

Note: Scheduled randomized hourly pre-chill process evaluation tests shall continue independent of corrective measure(s) evaluation tests and post chill product verification tests.

Once corrective measures have been implemented, the efficacy of these measures shall be evaluated and the evaluation shall only apply to the defect group under questionable control. Corrective measures and additional corrective measure(s) evaluations are required until two (2) accepted samples demonstrate conformance to the standard.

When a corrective measure(s) evaluation is rejected, the operator shall immediately reduce the line speed by 10% and implement corrective measure(s). The efficacy of those corrective measures will be evaluated within 10 minutes.

Immediate post-chill product verification and potential product rework is required when one (1) corrective measure(s) evaluation has been rejected. The verification is required only for the specific defect group(s). The end of additional sampling at post-chill verification station occurs once corrective measures have been accepted (two accepted corrective measure(s) evaluations), by marking identified carcasses entering the chilling process.

The post-chill verification shall cover the entire amount of production or lot that was determined to be out of compliance at the pre-chill station (corrective measure(s) evaluation). If a post-chill product verification sample is rejected, the Establishment's monitor shall then identify the affected product so that it may be segregated and accumulated for rework.

The operator must develop a written program that will clearly indicate how plant personnel will identify lots of carcasses requiring rework, isolate these lots, rework the carcasses, and verify that the rework is satisfactory.

Once a specified lot has been reworked for the appropriate defects, a rework verification test shall be performed using the appropriate pass and fail criteria for that specific defect group. An accepted sample will result in releasing the retained lot.

A carcass and corresponding viscera exhibiting signs of potential Septicaemia/toxaemia, as defined under the "Definitions of Carcass Defects" or "Definitions of Viscera Defects" sections is to be removed for a CFIA veterinary inspection. If the veterinarian suspects a Septicaemia/toxaemia condition, the following procedures shall be initiated:

• The operator shall immediately notify all defect detectors that potential Septicaemia/toxaemia is found during a DDS evaluation;
• The "Corrective Measure(s) Evaluation" procedures and the "Post-Chill Product Verification" for both the viscera and the carcass groups are performed as per the DDS Decision Tree;
• The carcass and viscera are sent for a laboratory analysis confirmation; and
• If the laboratory analysis confirms the Septicaemia/toxaemia condition, the operator shall initiate corrective measure(s) satisfactory to the Veterinarian in Charge.

If the first shift ends in corrective measure(s) mode and/or post-chill product verification mode, the second shift shall continue with only the post-chill product verification mode until the end of affected carcasses.

If the last shift of the day (single or multiple shift establishments) ends in corrective measure(s) mode and/or post-chill product verification mode, the post-chill product verification mode shall continue until the chilling system is emptied.

Each element of the process control and their interaction are explained below and are presented in the decision tree.

The MIR have precedence over the DDS decision tree (corrective measures can be mandate at any time by the VIC).

19.6.2.5.2.9 Relationship Between the DDS and the Presentation Verification Tests

The two monitoring procedures must be carried out separately since they have different objectives. The presentation standards ensure adequate evisceration, so that on-line inspectors can perform a proper inspection and detectors can perform proper detection. The defect detection standards establish the criteria for verifying the operator's performance.

19.6.2.5.2.10 Defect Detection Standards (DDS) Decision Tree

19.6.2.5.3 DDS Defects Log

A separate DDS Defects Log shall be used for each species.

For operators with more than one shift per day, test results for each shift shall be considered independently because of personnel and supervisor differences and shall be recorded on separate DDS Defects Logs.

Carcasses or viscera are scored as a defective sample unit for the presence of any distinguishable defect listed in section 19.6.2.5.2.5, "National AQLs and Monitoring Defects Lists" of this chapter. A carcass or viscera showing multiple defects under the same defect group is scored as one defect (e.g., a carcass with inadequate bleeding and emaciation = one defective carcass).

A carcass with defects under different defect groups is scored as one defective carcass for each group (e.g., a carcass with ascites and hepatitis would = one defect in the Carcass Defect Group and one defect in the Viscera Defect Group).

Defects are scored in their respective defect group, a total score for each group is determined and acceptability is determined by comparing the score to the applicable acceptance and rejection numbers for that group.

19.6.2.5.3.1 Defects Log for Chicken, Fowl, Turkey and Quail

Refer to Annex A of this chapter.

19.6.2.5.4 CFIA Responsibilities

CFIA staff shall ensure that the DDS has been implemented by the operator and is being performed according to this section and the operator's written program. This may be accomplished by performing independent verification tests and/or correlation tests with the industry monitor.

An independent test or a correlation test shall be performed at a minimum of once per half shift/evisceration line. A minimum of two verification tests (one independent and one verification test) shall be conducted and recorded each week by a veterinarian. The records must show that within one month each veterinarian working at the plant has performed at least one test of each kind.

CFIA staff may perform an additional test at any time as an additional assurance of process control or if they feel that standards are not being met for any reason.

Test results may be recorded on a separate DDS Log or on the operator's records such that CFIA tests can be distinguished from tests conducted by the operator's DDS monitor.

Also, an indication should be present to differentiate the independent CFIA verification tests from the correlation tests with the industry monitor.

19.6.2.5.4.1 Independent CFIA Verification Tests

The CFIA's independent verification of the operator's process evaluation tests shall be performed according to the following parameters:

• Tests shall be performed on each evisceration line, at select random times and according to the sampling method described previously. When a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent test scheduled for that half shift;
• If an independent verification coincides with any of the plant monitor's tests, the inspector shall conduct a correlation test instead of an independent test;
• The sample size will be the same as that used by the operator;
• If the sample is rejected, the DDS monitor shall perform an immediate "Process Evaluation" test and then initiate any required action as per the decision tree in this section; and
• The result of each test shall be compared to the operator's monitoring record. If the CFIA test result is not in agreement with the operator's tests, the Inspector shall discuss the test results with the (industry) DDS monitor and inform the VIC.

The Decision Tree for DDS is to be used by the operator's monitor and for reference by the CFIA.

19.6.2.5.4.2 Correlation Tests

Correlation testing consists of the CFIA conducting an evaluation of a test being performed by the operator's DDS monitor according to the following parameters:

• The test shall be performed on each evisceration line. This frequency may be increased according to the operator's compliance to the monitoring procedures of the Defect Detection Standards. When a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent CFIA test scheduled for that half shift;
• A member of the inspection staff shall examine the same carcasses at the same time as the industry monitor; and
• The monitor will be evaluated for the sampling method used, correct interpretation of defects, completion of forms, correct application of the decision tree and the implementation of corrective actions if necessary.

If the CFIA's evaluation demonstrates deficiency in the industry's defect detection process and/or the monitoring thereof, immediate corrective measure shall be initiated by the operator. The VIC shall decide if the written procedure is to be reassessed and amended accordingly.

19.6.2.6 Poultry Rejection Process

19.6.2.6.1 Introduction

The Poultry Rejection Process (PRP), as presented in this sub-section, is part of the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP), a post mortem examination program, as defined in section 2 of the Meat Inspection Regulations, 1990 (MIR). Both the CFIA and the operator have a role to play under the PRP. This section contains the requirements for the operator, as referred to in section 29.1 (3) of the MIR, and explains the role of the CFIA.

The MPIP requires an operator to perform a post mortem examination of carcasses and to sort defective carcasses based on the criteria specified in this chapter. The PRP involves the operator assuming responsibility, as instructed by the official veterinarian, for rejecting chicken, turkey and heavy fowl (spent breeder hens) carcasses with certain deviations which should be discarded as condemned. The CFIA will evaluate the compliance of the rejection process throughout slaughter and evisceration operations.

The CFIA has initiated the design and development of the PRP under the scope of section 29.1 (4) which stipulates "For the purpose of evaluating an application for authorization to operate a shared inspection program or a post mortem examination program, the President may undertake any consultation, study, research, test, trial or other process that is necessary."

It is to be noted that any operator authorized to implement a post mortem examination program under section 30.2 (a) of the MIR shall "operate the program under the supervision of an official veterinarian". Furthermore, section 30.2 (b) of the MIR stipulates that the operator shall "ensure that the program continues to meet the requirements of the Manual of Procedures"; otherwise a notice of suspension will be delivered to the operator as per MIR section 29.4 (1). In such case, an operator may face a licence suspension or be limited to operate under a traditional mode with one inspection station and the associated maximum permitted line speed.

Section 83. (2) of the MIR stipulates that "Subject to subsection (3), if … the carcass or a part of the carcass of a food animal shows a deviation from normal appearance … the carcass and all its parts shall be held and referred to an official veterinarian for detailed inspection and for instructions regarding the disposition of the blood and the carcass and its parts." The requirements of the PRP policy are described pursuant to the authority given to the Director under section 83.5 of the MIR and further to section 83.(3) of the MIR which stipulates that "An official veterinarian may instruct an operator or an inspector who is not an official veterinarian that blood, carcasses or parts of carcasses with certain deviations from normal appearance (a) are not required to be referred to an official veterinarian for detailed inspection; and (b) are to be disposed of in accordance with the instructions provided by an official veterinarian."

For the purposes of the PRP, carcasses showing "certain deviations from normal appearance" referred to in MIR section 83.(3) are defined as carcasses with deviations and are included within the following table.

The deviations listed in the preceding table have been selected as they are easily identifiable by operator's employees trained and accredited using the training material and accreditation protocol developed by the CFIA. The code assigned to each disease and condition is intended for use by the operator and the CFIA Veterinarian in Charge when issuing condemnation/rejection reports and when collating and submitting condemnation/rejection data on a monthly basis to headquarters.

The deviations listed in the preceding table are explained in section 19.7, "Poultry Dispositions", of this chapter and/or within the applicable training modules as developed by the CFIA for use by industry. The CFIA training modules are available through the local inspection staff. Designated industry employees must be trained and accredited prior to performing rejections as described in Annex B, "Training and Accreditation Protocol", of this chapter.

Please note that the official veterinarian maintains, at all times, his or her discretionary powers pursuant to section 83.(2) even when instructing an operator not to submit carcasses showing certain deviations. Carcasses not falling within the preceding table and "Questionable" carcasses, as described later in this chapter, must be referred to the CFIA Veterinarian for a detailed veterinary inspection and instructions. The operator is required to refer to the CFIA veterinarian whenever the company rejecter encounters a lot with an unusual pathology or a flock with a high rejection rate. The CFIA MPIP evisceration floor inspector may also inform the official veterinarian. In either case, the CFIA veterinarian shall assess the affected lot and provide instructions to the industry rejecter and the CFIA inspector(s) for handling affected carcasses. In addition, at any time, an official veterinarian may require that all rejected carcasses be submitted for detailed veterinary inspection from a particular lot or lots.

Carcasses with processing defects, as described in "Rejection Process", the following sub-section, are to be identified by the industry designated defect detectors and re-routed, using the provisions under MIR section 83.(3), to appropriate processes and/or disposed of according to the requirements of this Chapter. These affected carcasses are not considered under the PRP. However, they are to be handled by the operator under CFIA oversight (CFIA evisceration floor inspector).

19.6.2.6.2 Rejection Process

The rejection process is initiated on the evisceration line by defect detection related activities:

• Carcass defect detector(s) remove obviously condemnable carcasses prior to evisceration for sorting by a trained and accredited rejecter.
• After evisceration, viscera defect detectors identify viscera that have specified defects that may warrant rejection of the carcass and the corresponding viscera. Each such viscera and the corresponding carcass are to be removed from the evisceration line for sorting by a rejecter.
• Carcasses with localized cavity defects shall be handled as per on-line/off-line reprocessing/reconditioning and/or salvaging processes. Carcasses with only cavity defects are not to be submitted to the rejecter.

Carcasses removed from the evisceration line for suspected generalized pathology shall be sorted off-line by a rejecter into three groups as follows:

• rejected carcasses;
• passed carcasses (subject to assessment by the CFIA and removal of any localized defect(s)); and
• "questionable" carcasses (set aside for CFIA veterinary assessment).
  • Each rejected carcass shall be recorded by the rejecter. The rejecter also classifies each rejected carcass under one of the nine (9) categories listed in the preceding table. Carcasses which are passed by the rejecter shall be presented to the CFIA as described later in this chapter under "Phase 3, Pre-authorization Implementation Period".

Questionable carcasses are carcasses that the rejecter is unsure if they should be rejected or passed (e.g., a new or unknown pathology or unknown signs of pathology). Such carcasses shall be set aside in a designated location approved by the Veterinarian in Charge (VIC).

All questionable carcasses and "deviations from normal appearance" not listed in the preceding table must be referred to the CFIA for a veterinary judgment and disposition. Examples include: Anemia, Botulism, Cannibalism, Coligranuloma, Emphysema, Frostbite, Leucosis sarcoma group, Gout, Osteomyelitis, Urolithiasis, Septicaemia, etc.

Rejection Correlation Tests (RCT) performed by the CFIA Veterinarian on rejected carcasses help to assure that questionable carcasses are minimized and help to provide feedback to the rejecter as part of a learning experience.

If the veterinarian is not sure of the diagnosis and/or the disposition, the veterinarian should contact their area poultry National Correlation Team (NCT) representative for advice including whether a sample should be submitted for laboratory analysis.

Carcasses listed in the following table are:

• not part of the rejection process;
• are to be handled by a designated industry employee; and
• are not to be presented to the CFIA (unless requested by the VIC on a case-by-case basis).

Note: Only "Extensive Bruising", "Found Dead" and "Inadequate Bleeding" are to be reported to the VIC for the monthly roll-up in Form CFIA/ACIA 5179, Antemortem and Postmortem Inspection Report.

19.6.2.6.3 Training and Accreditation

Rejecters shall be trained and accredited using the process specified in Annex B of this chapter. The CFIA will train and accredit at least two (2) industry trainers who in turn will train and accredit a sufficient number of rejecters such that at least one accredited rejecter is available on-site for each slaughter shift. Official training material has been developed by the CFIA for use by the industry trainers.

19.6.2.6.4 Implementation of PRP

The PRP will be implemented in three (3) phases in abattoirs that have qualified for Phase 3 of the MPIP implementation and that have completed the preliminary activities listed below prior to commencing Phase 1 of the PRP. The following table summarizes the preliminary activities and the three (3) phases for implementing the PRP:

19.6.2.6.4.1 Preliminary Activities

The CFIA area poultry condemnation National Correlation Team (NCT) member shall ensure that the VIC is correlated to the latest version of the poultry condemnation policies, as contained within this chapter, for all classes of poultry slaughtered at the abattoir. The VIC shall then correlate any other CFIA veterinarian(s) working at the abattoir. The VIC shall also ensure that the industry trainers for defect detection are updated according to the requirements contained in Annex B, Training and Accreditation Protocol, of this chapter. Industry trainers shall update/retrain the remaining defect detectors by using the latest versions of the CFIA developed industry training modules for carcass, cavity and viscera defect detection.

Industry trainers and monitors shall be trained according to the requirements contained in Annex B, Training and Accreditation Protocol, of this chapter.

19.6.2.6.4.2 Phase 1 – Preparatory Period

The area CFIA poultry condemnation NCT member or designate will ensure that the Veterinarian in Charge (VIC) and all other CFIA veterinarians assigned to the abattoir (and who will be assessing the rejection process), including replacement veterinarian(s) are trained for:

• performing RCT for unwarranted rejections (false positives), carcasses passed in error (false negatives) and questionable carcasses;
• recording false positives, false negatives and questionable carcasses; and
• assessing the rejection data and control over the rejection process.

The NCT representative or qualified designate and a Poultry Inspection Specialist or a qualified designate (e.g., a CFIA inspector trained and certified for the MPIP including the PRP) will train and accredit the plant trainers for performing rejections based on the disposition policies contained in this chapter. The plant trainers will then train and accredit the remaining industry defect detectors and other personnel performing or assessing rejections (e.g., supervisor and carcass and viscera defect detectors who will be performing rejections).

CFIA inspectors will also be trained to provide a basic understanding of the rejection process.

The operator should commence preparations to issue a condemnation/rejection report during Phase 1. In particular, computer software and a database should be enhanced or be created such that all the required information, including that required to bench mark the total rejections for farm origin pathology, can be entered onto each condemnation/rejection report.

Operators shall present to the VIC a written description of the facilities and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the rejection process.

Phase 2 should begin as soon as possible after sufficient number of CFIA staff have been trained and industry personnel have been accredited for performing rejections.

19.6.2.6.4.3 Phase 2 – Trial Period

Throughout Phase 2, each carcass removed from the evisceration line for suspected farm origin pathology (as specified in the Defect Detection Standards (DDS) program) is to be presented by the rejecter for veterinary diagnosis and disposition as part of a Rejection Correlation Test as described in the following sub-section, "Rejection Correlation Test". The rejecter shall dispose of the carcass as instructed by the veterinarian and, if rejected, shall record the carcass in the correct category for issuing the monthly Ante Mortem and Post Mortem Inspection Report.

Throughout Phase 2, the CFIA veterinarian(s) mentor/coach the industry rejecters full-time while the rejecters gain practical experience. The CFIA will continue to collate the disposition data for submission to the CFIA HQ at the end of each month.

Both the operator and the CFIA veterinarian are to track the false positives, false negatives and questionable carcasses for each truck/lot. When it appears that the performance of the newly trained rejecters has passed through the learning curve and has plateaued/stabilized, then data on false positives, false negatives and questionable carcasses should be collected for another 20 consecutive production shifts (each shift is considered separately) after which the CFIA will perform a formal audit to assess if the operator qualifies to advance to Phase 3 of implementing the PRP. The data from Phase 2 will be used to construct a variety of charts and graphs for use during Phase 3 and Post-Implementation.

The VIC and the operator shall assess if any facilities or the rejection process needs to be added or modified to facilitate:

• an efficient rejection process;
• the veterinarian performing RCTs; and
• the CFIA Evisceration Floor Inspector examining each carcass removed by the defect detectors for suspected pathology and which was not rejected by the rejecter.

A CFIA review team comprised of the area poultry inspection specialist, the Regional Veterinarian Officer (RVO), the area NCT member and the veterinarian in charge, should perform the Phase 2 to 3 audit (requires 1-3 days) by completing the "Poultry Rejection Process (PRP) Compliance Checklist, Phase 2 (Trial Period) to Phase 3 (Pre-authorization Implementation Period)", provided by the area poultry inspection specialist. The checklist shall be completed by the area poultry inspection specialist and copied to all team members as well as the CFIA Inspection Manager. Phase 3 may commence when all deficiencies identified during the audit/review which might affect the performance of the rejecters have been corrected.

19.6.2.6.4.3.1 Rejection Correlation Test

The CFIA veterinarian shall perform an RCT for false positive and false negative carcasses on each lot of poultry as described in the following four (4) steps. False positives are carcasses that would have been rejected by the rejecter but should have been passed (unwarranted rejections). False negatives are carcasses that would have been passed by the rejecter but should have been rejected (passed in error). For the purposes of an RCT a lot is considered to be comprised of one truck load or about one hour's production of live poultry.

Step no. 1 – Throughout Phase 2, all carcasses with suspected generalized pathology, which are removed from the line by the defect detectors, shall be presented to the CFIA veterinarian by the rejecter in a manner acceptable to the VIC (either manually or on CFIA accepted facilities). Such carcasses shall be:

• presented one at a time to the veterinarian;
• presented in a manner to clearly indicate if the rejecter wants to reject or pass the carcass; and
• if rejected, presented with an indication as to under which one of the nine (9) categories listed in the table in the introduction to this section; and
• if not rejected, presented with an indication as to whether the carcass may be returned to the evisceration line or may be sent for salvaging or off-line reprocessing/reconditioning.

If the rejecter is not sure whether the carcass should be rejected or passed, the rejecter shall indicate that the carcass is a "questionable" carcass.

A procedure should be in place to coordinate the work of the rejecters and the CFIA VMs in an efficient and timely manner.

Step no. 2 – The veterinarian should inform the rejecter of the correct name and disposition for each false positive, false negative and questionable carcass.

Please note that whenever the rejecter correctly indicates that a carcass should be rejected, but places it in the wrong category, the rejecter should be informed that it is a mistake and should be informed of what the correct name/category is, but such a mistake should not be counted as a false positive. Repeated mistakes should be reported by the CFIA veterinarian to the plant operator for follow-up by a plant trainer.

Step no. 3 – Rejecters shall collect the number of carcasses that would have been rejected and collate the rejection results under each of the nine (9) categories listed in the table in the Introduction to this section. This information shall be provided to the CFIA veterinarian. The veterinarian shall verify if the information provided by the rejecter (number of carcasses in each category) correlates with similar information collected by the veterinarian during the RCT.

The operator should put in place a system (manual or electronic) to collect the number of carcasses rejected and the category into which each rejected carcass is placed by the rejecter.

Step no. 4 – The following information should be recorded by the CFIA veterinarian for entry into an Excel spreadsheet for every lot:

• number of carcasses rejected for pathology;
• number of false positives and the correct category/condition for each false positive;
• number of false negatives and the correct category/condition for each false negative;
• number of questionable carcass(es);
• number of birds slaughtered; and
• initials of the plant rejecter(s) and the veterinarian.

It is recommended that the CFIA veterinarian(s) track information on the type and number of questionable carcasses separately to enhance training of the rejecters during phase 2.

19.6.2.6.4.4 Phase 3 – Pre-authorization Implementation Period

The operator commences the following tasks:

• performing rejections (without a detailed veterinary inspection for each carcass removed from the evisceration line for suspected farm origin pathology (as specified in the DDS program)); and
• recording rejection data.

Each carcass removed by the defect detectors for suspected pathology, and which is not rejected by the rejecter, shall be set aside in a designated location for examination by the CFIA.

The CFIA veterinarian will:

• perform all of the activities listed in the following subsection "Role of the CFIA Veterinarian";
• once per half shift:
  • perform an RCT for unwarranted rejections (false positive) and carcasses passed in error (false negative) as described in the preceding sub section, "Phase 2 – Trial Period", on a lot randomly selected by the CFIA veterinarian;
  • perform a detailed inspection on all carcasses from the selected lot which are removed from the evisceration line for suspected pathology (not for carcasses with only processing defects) after the rejecter has made a decision for each such carcass as previously described under Phase 2 of implementing the PRP; and
  • verifies that the rejection data collected and collated by the rejecter for the lot accurately represents the rejections reported on the operator's "Condemnation/Rejection Report for Poultry" (if issued by the operator) disposition report for that lot;
• record and enter false positive and negative data and all of the other information listed under "Phase 2 – Trial Period" into the Excel spreadsheet to generate the control charts and to track trends in corresponding charts and graphs; and
• review the control charts and graphs for false positive and negative to assess industry control over the rejection process as described under the subsequent sub-section 19.6.2.6.5.3, "Assessment of the Rejection Process".

Whenever a lot is selected by the CFIA veterinarian for testing, the rejecter shall present each carcass removed from the evisceration line for suspect pathology to the veterinarian as described under "Phase 2 – Trial Period".

The rejection process is considered to be under control during Phase 3 if the graphs for false positives and negatives appear to be similar to those generated during Phase 2, and provided that the operator remains in compliance with the other requirements for the PRP.

The CFIA Evisceration Floor Inspector will:

• screen each carcass that was removed by the defect detectors for suspected generalized pathology and that was not rejected by the rejecter; and
• monitor the rejection process.

Each carcass and corresponding viscera removed by the defect detectors for suspected generalized pathology, and not rejected by the rejecter, shall be examined by the Evisceration Floor Inspector. If the inspector determines that the carcass and viscera may be a false negative, then the carcass and viscera shall be set aside for a detailed veterinary inspection.

Questionable carcasses and viscera shall be set aside for a detailed veterinary inspection and feedback to rejecters and CFIA inspectors.

The rejection process shall also be monitored by the Evisceration Floor Inspector throughout evisceration operations whenever the CFIA veterinarian is not present within the evisceration area. The VIC shall be advised whenever anything suspicious or abnormal takes place (e.g., there appears to be unwarranted rejections, the rejecter is replaced just before the veterinarian performs an RCT, a new untrained industry employee starts to perform rejections while not being trained by the trainer, a lot with a high level of rejections or with an uncommon disease/condition is being eviscerated, a large number of viscera are being rejected by the viscera defect detector due to contamination and the cause is not corrected in a timely manner, etc.).

The CFIA veterinarian may perform an additional RCT at any time and/or may instruct the operator that all rejected carcasses and corresponding viscera shall be set aside.

Phase 3, Pre-authorization Implementation Period, is considered to be completed after 3 consecutive months of consistently satisfactory performance as assessed by the VIC and the area poultry inspection specialist. This assessment shall include the results of the RCT performed by the CFIA veterinarian for the rejection process during Phase 2 and 3. The Excel file containing the results of all the RCTs shall be submitted to the area poultry inspection specialist who shall determine if an on-site assessment including completion of the PRP checklist is warranted.

19.6.2.6.4.5 Authorization

The PRP is considered to be fully implemented after Phase 3 is successfully completed. The Regional Director will then authorize the operator to operate under the PRP as part of the MPIP. CFIA inspection staff will continue to perform the same activities described in Phase 3 of implementing the PRP including randomly selecting one lot per half shift for an RCT by a CFIA veterinarian.

The VIC shall provide the establishment operator with an electronic copy of the excel file containing the data collected during the RCTs and the resulting control graphs once per week on an ongoing basis. Any emerging trend(s) evident on one or more graphs should be discussed between the VIC and the operator.

Data listed in the previous section for Phase 2 will continue to be collected and collated in the Excel spreadsheet by the CFIA veterinarian for a 12 month period (commencing after Phase 3 is finished) for submission to the Area and National Poultry Specialist for assessment of any seasonal effect. Thereafter, the data from the RCT shall be collected on an ongoing basis for assessment by the VIC.

19.6.2.6.5 Role of the CFIA Veterinarian

The Veterinarian-in-Charge (VIC) plays an important role during the initial implementation and the ongoing operations under the PRP. The VIC shall be closely involved in the training of the industry trainers for the PRP and of the designated rejecters. The VIC is a member of the CFIA review team that performs an audit for the operator to qualify for Phase 3 of implementing the PRP. The VIC also plays a key role during the pre-authorization implementation period and throughout the subsequent ongoing authorization phase by providing feedback to the rejecter and CFIA inspectors after inspecting questionable carcasses and/or identifying new conditions. The VIC maintains the authority to assure adequate control of the rejection process by the operator. The CFIA veterinarian may perform an additional RCT at any time and/or may instruct the operator that all rejected carcasses and corresponding viscera shall be set aside.

A CFIA official veterinarian shall be present throughout evisceration operations at the establishment.

Several factors will be assessed by the CFIA to verify if the rejection process put in place by an operator is under control.

19.6.2.6.5.1 Review of Training Records

Industry rejecters must be trained and accredited according to Annex B, Training and Accreditation Protocol, of this chapter. The operator shall maintain a roster of employees who have been trained and accredited for performing rejections. Annually and whenever a new rejecter commences performing rejections, the CFIA VIC shall review the industry training records to verify that each rejecter received the required training and passed the requisite theoretical and practical tests. An updated list of rejecters is to be provided to the VIC.

Whenever a VIC determines that an accredited employee is not performing his or her tasks in a complete and a satisfactory manner, the VIC shall notify the operator. The CFIA shall verify compliance by the operator with the requirements contained in Annex B including those for the Periodic Review, Loss of Accreditation and Reaccreditation for the rejecters.

19.6.2.6.5.2 Specific Circumstances

Under all of the following specific circumstances, it is to be noted that the CFIA official veterinarian may require that all carcasses suspected of a generalized pathology and removed from the evisceration line for further rejection be submitted for a detailed veterinary inspection.

19.6.2.6.5.2.1 Lack of a Competent Rejecter

Whenever the operator lacks an employee listed on the current roster of trained and accredited rejecters for a slaughter shift (e.g., due to sickness or a severe storm that prevents the rejecters from getting to the establishment), the operator may:

• suspend slaughter operations until a competent rejecter can be brought in; or
• all carcasses sent by the detectors for assessment by the rejecter (i.e., suspected of having generalized pathology) are discarded as operator rejects; or
• other options acceptable to the CFIA

19.6.2.6.5.2.2 Lots with an Unusual Pathology

When either defect detectors and/or rejecters are confronted with a new or unusual condition/pathology, veterinary assistance must be sought. Once the condition is identified, the disposition will be communicated to the rejecter(s) and the CFIA Evisceration Floor Inspector. If carcasses affected with the identified condition are rejected, they should be recorded as per VIC guidance in the operator's database and ultimately reported on the monthly Ante Mortem and Post Mortem Inspection Report.

In the case of an unusual form of pathology not contained in the section titled "Poultry Dispositions" of this chapter, samples may be taken and shipped for assessment by the CFIA veterinary pathologist. In those cases, support must be sought from the area representative of the NCT and of the Area Poultry Inspection Specialist. The precautionary principle must apply until the VIC receives feedback and guidance from the veterinary pathologist and/or NCT member.

19.6.2.6.5.2.3 Flocks with a High Rejection Rate

Outlier flocks (with a high rejection rate) are generally anticipated before they are processed through the review of the advance copy of the flock sheet and of the producer profile in the operator's database. The operator must take appropriate action before the lot reaches the evisceration floor.

As soon as an unusually high rejection rate is experienced by the rejecter(s) for a particular lot, the VIC must be immediately called onto the evisceration floor to assess the condition. Once the condition is identified/confirmed by the VIC, the disposition should be communicated to the rejecter(s) and the CFIA Evisceration Floor Inspector. The CFIA veterinarian may comment on the condition found on form CFIA/ACIA 5639 "Poultry Rejection Process Control Evaluation Report".

19.6.2.6.5.3 Assessment of the Rejection Process

The rejection process shall be assessed based on criteria listed in the preceding subsection, "Role of the CFIA Veterinarian" as well as by ongoing RCTs as follows.

The CFIA veterinarian shall conduct an RCT once per half shift as described in the preceding sub section, "Phase 3 – Implementation Period".

The number and distribution of false positive and negative rejected carcasses will be assessed by evaluating the graphs generated by an Excel spreadsheet. The graphs are automatically updated whenever the results of an RCT are entered into the corresponding data entry chart within the Excel spreadsheet.

The CFIA Evisceration Floor Inspector shall monitor the rejection process as well as the salvaging and off-line reprocessing/reconditioning operations throughout evisceration operations.

19.6.2.6.5.3.1 False Positives

Each incident of an unwarranted rejection (false positive) shall be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the CFIA veterinarian conducting the RCT. The CFIA veterinarian shall inform the industry rejecter each time a false positive occurs during a RCT. If warranted, the CFIA Veterinarian may require the operator to replace and/or retrain a rejecter, slow down the evisceration line or add extra rejecters. Alternatively, the operator may elect to absorb the loss of all rejected carcasses as "plant rejects".

19.6.2.6.5.3.2 False Negatives

There are two (2) types or origins of false negative carcasses:

• defects that are missed by the defect detectors; and
• carcasses passed in error by the rejecter.

Carcasses missed by defect detectors are controlled as part of the DDS program as described previously in this chapter.

As indicated under the previous sub section "Phase 3 – Implementation Period", each carcass and corresponding viscera removed by the defect detectors for suspected generalized pathology of farm origin, and not rejected by the rejecter, shall be inspected by the Evisceration Floor Inspector. If the inspector determines that the carcass and viscera may be a false negative, then the carcass and viscera shall be set aside for a detailed veterinary inspection. The CFIA veterinarian shall inform the rejecter whenever it is determined to be a false negative.

19.6.2.6.5.3.3 Questionable Carcasses

Each questionable carcass provides an opportunity for the CFIA to provide immediate feedback to the rejecter on-site and to ensure an enhancement of the knowledge and expertise of the rejecters. As rejecters gain experience in performing rejections, the number of questionable carcasses set aside should decrease and will indicate that rejecters are becoming more and more proficient in their duties. Questionable carcasses are also important because they alert the VIC of new emerging conditions.

Repetitive submission of questionable carcasses for the same reason/condition and/or unwarranted questionable defective carcasses by either one or several rejecters should be brought by the official veterinarian to the attention of the plant trainer(s).

Conditions found in these questionable carcasses should be factored into subsequent accreditation and/or re-accreditation of the rejecters (refer to Annex B, Training & Accreditation Protocol).

19.6.2.6.5.4 Process Control

A rejection process that is under control is a process where the number and distribution of false positives and negatives during Phase 3, Pre-authorization Implementation Period, and thereafter during the Post Implementation period, reflects that which occurred during Phase 2, Trial Period, for implementing the PRP.

The CFIA has developed a Statistical Process Control (SPC) which is based on a Shewart Chart as incorporated into the Excel spreadsheet as referenced in the preceding sub-sections. Each data point on the Shewart Chart is comprised of the number of correlation errors (comprised of false positives and negatives) from 40 consecutive RCTs (about one month's production). Exceeding the Upper Control Limit (UCL) or seven consecutive data points located above the Central Line (CL) would be a strong indicator that the operator may have lost control over rejections. The operator shall perform an investigation, determine the probable cause(s), submit an acceptable written corrective action plan, and take effective corrective and preventative action(s).

The number of false positives and negatives should tend toward zero over time, with the understanding that the zero value is the objective but is out of reach under normal operating conditions.

If the rejection process goes out of control as shown by the SPC chart generated by the PRP Excel Spreadsheet, CFIA veterinarians will check off the box indicating that the process is not under control on the CFIA/ACIA 5639 "Poultry Rejection Process Control Evaluation Report" form. The operator shall perform an investigation, determine the probable cause(s), submit an acceptable Corrective Action Plan (CAP) and take effective corrective and preventative action(s). CFIA veterinarians will continue to check off the box indicating that the process is not under control until an acceptable CAP (based on the Compliance Verification System (CVS) policy, chapter 18 of this manual) has been received by the VIC and the process is brought back under control as shown by the SPC chart (e.g., if the last data point exceeded the UCL and the new data point is below the UCL, or if the previous seven consecutive data points exceeded the CL and the new data point is below the CL).

In addition, rejecters shall be retrained and/or replaced or rejected carcasses are to be discarded as operator rejects, if one of the following occurs:

• repetitive errors are made by rejecters; or
• total number rejected or number of carcasses indicated by the rejecter(s) under each category indicated on the operator's condemnation/rejection report is inaccurate on an ongoing basis (repetitive occurrence) based on the RCT; or
• carcasses are rejected by non-accredited rejecters.

CFIA veterinarians shall consult with the operator when there is compelling evidence that an upward trend, as shown by the various graphs generated by the Excel Spreadsheet or a cluster of false positive and/or false negative rejected carcasses, can be attributed to a cause other than normal variation in the rejection process.

19.6.2.6.6 Information for Producers

National and regional data for disposition of chickens and turkeys will continue to be posted at the Poultry Marketplace of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

An annual report summarizing the performance of the rejecters, at poultry abattoirs authorized to implement the Poultry Rejection Process for a minimum of 12 months, will be provided by the CFIA to the Chicken Farmers of Canada (CFC), the Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC) and the Canadian Poultry & Egg Producers Association (CPEPC) during an initial three-year transition period (2010/11/12).

19.6.2.6.7 CFIA Rejection Reports

Refer to section 19.7.5.2, "CFIA Condemnation and Rejection Reports", in this chapter.

19.6.2.7 Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS)

19.6.2.7.1 Introduction

Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS) is an objective tool designed to ensure that the procedures used in preparing and approving a dressed food animal carcass are in control and that the product is produced in conformance with Canadian regulatory standards. These standards specify the operational requirements for dressing, trimming and processing of dressed approved carcasses. CDS tests are performed on sample sets of dressed carcasses randomly selected throughout the production shift to validate the operator's performance in meeting prescribed product standards.

Each operator that switches from the Finished Product Standards (FPS) to the Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS) may utilize an implementation phase of 12 months to facilitate the transition between standards. The VIC should contact the area poultry inspection program specialist for additional information.

19.6.2.7.2 Responsibilities of the Operator

The operator is responsible to process chill carcasses that have been dressed, trimmed and processed, under the minimum requirements specified under the CDS. Therefore, the operator shall:

• provide adequate facilities to hold and to examine sampled carcasses off-line prior to chilling;
• supply accredited CDS trainers and accredited plant personnel for performing CDS tests monitoring;
• perform CDS testing as established by the standard; and
• determine and take the appropriate action in response to the CDS test results.

19.6.2.7.3 Responsibilities of the CFIA

Certified CFIA inspectors will be responsible for verifying the operator's monitoring tests, corrective actions and records. Therefore, inspectors will be performing correlation tests and periodic independent tests (as deemed necessary by the VIC) to verify the company's compliance and performance, (see section "Verification by CFIA" later in this document).

19.6.2.7.4 Facility Requirements for Off-line Monitoring Station

All defects shall be monitored after dressing, trimming or processing and immediately prior to chilling.

Refer to section 19.1.3 for facility requirements for the CDS station.

19.6.2.7.5 Training of the CDS Establishment's Monitor

The CDS establishment monitor shall be trained and accredited as per the Training Protocol described in Annex B of this chapter.

19.6.2.7.6 CDS Process Control – ISO Based Test

Random sampling for CDS testing is performed by the operator using an "Acceptance Sampling Plan", the ISO 2859-1, Special Inspection Level S-3. For more detailed information on the ISO sampling plan under the CDS, see the CFIA Training Module I-2.

The CDS monitoring tool has 3 general components:

• Process evaluation;
• Corrective measure(s) evaluation; and
• Post-chill product verification.

The process evaluation monitors the removal of all dressing defects comprised in this standard. It is performed at a consistent frequency on successive lots. It determines if the process is under control and meets the present standards on an on-going basis.

The corrective measure(s) evaluation is an assessment of the adequacy of the corrective measures that have been implemented following a rejected sample. It determines when the process is back under control.

The post-chill product verification is to be used to insure that potential defective chilled product or parts of rejected lots meets the standards or should be held for rework.

19.6.2.7.6.1 Sample Size

The sample size for the Process Evaluation (PE), Corrective Measure(s) Evaluation (CME) and Post-chill Product Verification (PPV) using the ISO 2859-1 sampling plan is based on the volume of production and the Special Inspection Level S-3.

19.6.2.7.6.2 Testing Frequency

The CDS monitoring tests are based on a lot by lot evaluation determined to be an hour's production. Therefore, an accredited plant employee shall conduct scheduled randomized tests, once every hour of production, on a specified number of carcasses at the off-line station. Times for the tests shall be randomly selected prior to the start of the shift.

The process evaluation shall always remain on a production lot of an (1) hour.

19.6.2.7.6.3 Sampling Method

All carcass samples shall be randomly selected from the evisceration line using a standard random selection technique to prevent sampling bias and shall be included in the operator's written program. In order to correctly evaluate the defects in a consistent basis, it has been determined that the sampling, the examination and the recording of a twenty (20) carcasses sample should be completed in 7 to 10 minutes. The sampling procedure shall be fully described in the company's written program and must be approved by the VIC.

To facilitate the application of a random sampling, the following method is recommended:

Step 1. Randomly select a time for the test.

Step 2. At the selected time, begin the accumulation of the sample by identifying a carcass on the line, removing the third subsequent carcass from the line. This will be the first carcass in the sample. Hang the carcass on the provided shackle/rack.

Step 3. Repeat step 2 until the sample size has been reached.

Step 4. Visually examine all carcasses (exterior, cavity and inside neck area). Remove the defect(s) from the carcass and hold the accumulated defect(s) for further recording.

Step 5. After completing the examination of all the carcasses comprising the sample, record the defects on the form provided in Annex A of this chapter.

Step 6. Determine if the sample indicates that the lot passed or failed considering each defect or group of defects individually. If applicable, take appropriate corrective measures as per the "DDS Decision Tree" below.

For more details on random sampling, see the CFIA Training Module.

19.6.2.7.6.4 CDS Defect Categories and Defect Definitions

The defects to be monitored under the CDS have been divided into two separate categories.

• the food safety (FS) category is designed to monitor the output of the dressing and evisceration procedures that may become a food safety risk; and
• the other, the dressing condition (DC) category, monitors the establishment's ability to remove unsuitable dressing conditions.

Each category has been divided into several defect groups that are to be monitored independently of the other defect groups. Therefore, the food safety category has 3 different defect groups (FS-1, FS-2 and FS-3) and the dressing condition category has 4 different defect groups (DC-1, DC-2, DC-3 and DC-4). Each of the seven defect groups is evaluated using the same 8, 13 or 20 carcass sample.

Each defect is defined as per the following tables:

19.6.2.7.6.5 CDS Defect Group – Ac and Re Numbers

National Ac and Re numbers have been selected using the expected percent of defective carcasses per defect group determined from a national survey for both Chicken and Turkey. The Ac and Re numbers were determined calculating an overall sampling rejection rate of a maximum 5%. The process is considered to be under control when the test result does not exceed the acceptance number as shown in the following table.

19.6.2.7.6.5.1 Ac and Re Numbers for Process Evaluation and Corrective Measure(s) Evaluation

The following table contains the values to be used for Process Evaluation testing and Corrective Measure(s) Evaluation testing.

19.6.2.7.6.5.2 Ac and Re Numbers for Post-chill Product Ac and Re Numbers for Post-chill Product Verification

This table contains the values to be used for post-chill product verification.

19.6.2.7.6.6 Process Control

The Carcass Dressing Standards are designed to provide feedback on a lot acceptance basis. They give the operator the information needed to respond to and to correct the process. When required, implementing effective corrective measures should prevent the need for post-chill product verification and off-line rework.

CFIA staff shall be informed by the operator after each rejected sample.

Each element of the process control and their interaction are explained below and are presented in the decision tree.

The MIR have precedence over this decision tree (corrective measures can be mandated at any time by the VIC).

19.6.2.7.6.6.1 Process Evaluation

During the process evaluation, each defect group is to be monitored independently of the other defect groups, using the same sample.

When a zero tolerance defect (FS-1, Faecal material) is detected, immediate corrective measure(s) and immediate post-chill product verification shall be initiated as per the following sections.

Note: Scheduled randomized hourly pre-chill process evaluation tests shall continue independent of corrective measure(s) evaluation tests and post chill product verification tests.

19.6.2.7.6.6.2 Corrective Measure(s) Evaluation

When the test result indicates that the process is under questionable control for a specific defect group, corrective measures must be implemented for this specific defect group and additional on-line testing is required.

Once corrective measures have been implemented, the efficacy of these measures shall be evaluated and the evaluation shall only apply to the defect group(s) under questionable control. Corrective measures and additional corrective measure(s) evaluations are required until one (1) accepted sample demonstrates conformance to the standard. Line speed reductions would only be applicable as part of corrective measures.

If corrective measures have been accepted while post-chill product verification is been performed, carcasses entering the chilling process are identified to mark the end of additional sampling at the post-chill verification station.

Note: Maximum of five (5) failed tests during phase-in period and three (3) failed tests after phase-in period after which the corrective measures by the operator must be determined by the VIC on a case-by-case basis:

• Replace staffing
• Additional staffing
• Line speed reduction

19.6.2.7.6.6.3 Post-chill Product Verification

Immediate post-chill product verification and potential product rework is required when one (1) corrective measure(s) evaluation has been rejected in the case of food safety defects and localized pathology defects (FS-1, FS-2, FS-3 and DC-1). The verification is required only for the specific defect group(s) which causes the initial sample to be rejected.

The post-chill verification shall cover the entire amount of production or lot that was determined to be out of compliance at the pre-chill station (corrective measure(s) evaluation). If a post-chill product verification sample is rejected, the Establishment's monitor will then identify the affected product so that it may be segregated and accumulated for rework (see reference on the following "CDS Defect Decision Tree").

The operator must have a written method that will clearly indicate how plant personnel will identify lots of carcasses requiring rework, isolate these lots, rework the carcasses, and verify that the rework is satisfactory.

Once a specified lot has been reworked for the appropriate defects, a rework verification test shall be performed using the appropriate pass and fail criteria for that specific defect group. An accepted sample will result in releasing the retained lot.

19.6.2.7.6.7 CDS Defect Decision Tree

19.6.2.7.6.8 CDS Test Result Scoring

A separate CDS Defects Log shall be used for each species and for each shift.

Carcasses are only scored as "defective carcass" for the presence of any distinguishable defect listed in the previous table "CDS Defects". Therefore a carcass showing evidence of the same defect at multiple locations should be recorded as one defective carcass for that specific defect.

Furthermore, a carcass showing multiple defects under the same defect group is only scored as one defective carcass, therefore one carcass having a lung and a bruise = one defective carcass. Also, a carcass with defects under different defect groups is scored as one defective carcass for each of the corresponding groups, therefore a carcass with salpingitis and a 20 mm bruise = one (1) DC-1 defect and one (1) DC-2 defect.

Defective carcasses are grouped by defect into different specified categories. The sample shall give the total number of defective carcasses according to each group of defects.

For operators with more than one shift per day, test results for each shift shall be considered independently because of personnel and supervisor differences and shall be recorded on separate CDS Defects Logs. Process control is shift specific.

19.6.2.7.6.9 CDS Test Defects Log for Chicken, Fowl, Turkey and Quail

Refer to Annex A of this chapter.

19.6.2.7.7 Verification by the CFIA

CFIA staff shall ensure that the CDS has been implemented and are being performed according to this section and the operator's written program. This may be accomplished by performing independent verification tests and/or correlation tests with the industry monitor.

An independent test or a correlation test shall be performed at a minimum of once per half shift/evisceration line. A minimum of two verification tests (one independent and one verification test) shall be conducted and recorded by a veterinarian each week. The records must show that within one month each veterinarian working at the plant has performed at least one test of each kind.

CFIA staff may perform an additional test at any time as an additional assurance of process control or if they feel that standards are not being met for any reason.

Test results may be recorded on a separate CDS Log or on the operator's records such that CFIA tests can be distinguished from tests conducted by the operator's CDS monitor. Also, an indication should be present to differentiate the independent verification tests and the correlation tests with the industry monitor.

19.6.2.7.7.1 Independent CFIA Verification Tests

The CFIA's independent verification of the operator's process evaluation tests shall be performed according to the following parameters:

• Tests shall be performed on each evisceration line, at select random times and according to the sampling method described previously. When a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent test scheduled for that half shift;
• If an independent verification test coincides with any of the plant's monitor test, the inspector shall conduct a correlation test instead of an independent test;
• The sample size will be the same as that used by the operator;
• If the sample is rejected, the CDS monitor shall perform an immediate "Process Evaluation" test and then initiate any required action as per the Decision Tree in this section;
• If the test result is rejected for faecal material, immediate corrective measure(s) and immediate post-chill product verification shall be initiated by the CDS monitor; and
• The result of each test shall be compared to the operator's monitoring record. If the CFIA test result is not in agreement with the operator's tests, the inspector shall discuss the test results with the (industry) CDS monitor and inform the VIC.

The Decision Tree for CDS is to be used by the operator's monitor and for reference by the CFIA.

19.6.2.7.7.2 Correlation Tests

Correlation testing consists of the CFIA conducting an evaluation of a test being performed by the operator's CDS monitor according to the following parameters:

• Tests shall be performed on each evisceration line. This frequency may be increased according to the operator's compliance to the monitoring procedures of the Carcass Dressing Standard. When a correlation test is performed, it replaces the independent CFIA test scheduled for that half shift;
• A member of the CFIA staff shall examine the same carcasses at the same time as the industry monitor; and
• The monitor will be evaluated for the sampling method used, correct interpretation of defects, completion of forms, correct application of the Decision Tree and the implementation of corrective actions if necessary.

If the CFIA's evaluation demonstrates deficiency in the industry's dressing process and/or the monitoring thereof, immediate corrective measures shall be initiated by the operator. The VIC shall decide if the written procedure is to be reassessed and amended accordingly.

19.6.3 Post mortem Inspection for Rabbits

The dressed carcass and viscera shall be visually examined. Visual examination should be followed by palpation and incision as deemed necessary.

19.6.3.1 Line Speed for Traditional Post mortem Inspection of Rabbits

19.7 Poultry Dispositions

Disposition of animals, blood, dressed carcasses and parts is dealt with in various sections of the MIR.

The descriptions of poultry diseases and conditions in the disposition policies below are adapted from:

Diseases of poultry
Y. M. Saif, H. J. Barnes, John R. Glisson, Aly M. Fadly, Larry R. McDougald, David Swayne
Edition: 11, illustrated
Published by Wiley-Blackwell, 2003
ISBN 081380423X, 9780813804231

A list of diseases and conditions requiring specific dispositions is provided below, together with the appropriate disposition in a coded and summarized form for reference purposes. This list is divided into the following three subsections:

• diseases and conditions that can be diagnosed in slaughterhouses, based on the organoleptic examination (visual, tactile and olfactory) of carcasses;
• diagnoses that are made by veterinarians at slaughter based on laboratory results. It is understood that in some cases, because of past experiences with a similar condition, a veterinarian can pose such diagnoses without a lab report; and
• reportable diseases that can be seen at slaughter. In some instances where disposition does not lend itself easily to summarization, or when more specific procedures are required, more detailed information is provided following the tables. Please forward to the Director, MPD, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, any concerns or suggestions with regard to this list of diseases and conditions.

Details for the disposal and use of condemned meat products are provided in Chapter 6. The MIR define animal food as a product for use as food for fish or for an animal that is a pet, is kept in a zoo or is raised for fur.

19.7.1 Diseases and Conditions Diagnosed by Organoleptic Examination of Carcasses and Portions Thereof and/or Reported to the Meat Programs Division

19.7.2 Diseases or Conditions Generally Diagnosed and Reported Based on Laboratory Analysis (Histopathology, Culture, Serology, Residues Testing, Etc.)

19.7.3 Reportable Diseases (Poultry Species)

In addition to the reportable diseases, any suspected case of exotic disease must be reported to the Animal Health District Veterinarian. Any animal or carcass suspected of having either a reportable or an exotic disease, should be held pending the arrival of an Animal Health veterinarian. (See Chapter 9)

19.7.4 Specific Ante mortem/Post mortem Conditions for Poultry

Throughout this section if a carcass is discarded by a veterinarian it is referred to as a condemnation. If a plant defect detector or inspector discards a carcass it will be referred to as a rejection.

19.7.4.1 Abnormal Odour

Any carcass which exhibits an abnormal odour at the time of post mortem inspection shall be held for veterinary inspection. If, in the opinion of the veterinarian, the odour is excessively pronounced, the carcass shall be condemned. Where odour is not considered excessive and not indicative of exposure to toxic materials, affected carcasses may be chilled in an attempt to dissipate the odour.

If at the end of the chilling period, the odour has dissipated, the carcass may be approved without restriction. In many cases, residual odour can still be detected following chilling by incision into deeper tissues. In cases where there is residual but not excessive odour following chilling, it will be acceptable to approve the carcass with the restriction that meat from the carcass may only be permitted for inclusion into spiced meat products. The amount of this meat permitted in the mixture will depend on the severity of the condition; however in no case the odour shall be detectable in the finished product.

19.7.4.2 Contamination

Carcasses and parts and/or viscera contaminated with grease, gall, faecal contamination, or other noxious material are adulterated and unfit for human food. Contamination shall be removed and condemned and the remainder may be approved, provided the remainder does not retain odours or unsound characteristics. Where the contamination is so generalized as to make removal impractical, total condemnation is required.

If total condemnation is not warranted, the carcass may either be salvaged or reprocessed as per the requirements for those processes.

Carcasses or portions and/or viscera contaminated with volatile oils, poisons, obnoxious gases, kerosene, or any substance which may permeate the tissues rendering them adulterated, shall be condemned.

Birds placed in the scald tank before they are dead become contaminated due to inhalation of scald water. Whenever scald water is observed in air sacs, the affected carcasses shall be condemned.

19.7.4.3 Fractures

Where bone fractures in poultry carcasses are detected at post mortem inspection, disposition shall be in accordance with the following:

• Where the fracture is associated with a bruise, the fracture site and bruised tissue shall be trimmed off and condemned. With fractures that involve the bones of the wings and legs, the affected tissue shall be removed by incision through the first joint (or joints) outside the affected area. In the case of a dislocated hip, without bruising, trimming is not required.
• Where the fracture is compound, i.e., the skin is penetrated, the fracture site and the surrounding tissue are to be trimmed off and condemned in a similar manner to that outlined above.
• Where the fracture is simple, without bruise or skin perforation, the affected portion may be approved for boning by either manual or mechanical means. In some cases, salvage may be possible by removing the affected area of fractured portions, e.g., a simple fracture of the distal end of the tibia may be removed by cutting proximal to the fracture. In such a case, the affected part must be removed to the satisfaction of CFIA personnel prior to approval of the remainder of the portion.

  Note: If the trimmed portion no longer conforms to the definition accepted for the label product description, the product description must be altered (see Chapter 7).

• In those instances where trimming is impracticable, in other words where the carcass is extensively mutilated, then the carcass shall be condemned.

Where the legs are short cut during feet removal, i.e., the cut is made through the tibia above the hock joint, no action is required unless there is visible contamination of the area.

19.7.4.4 Handling of Meat Products Which Have Fallen on the Floor

The disposition of these carcasses (or portions) must be left to the discretion of the Veterinarian in Charge. If salvage of the carcass or portion is not considered practicable, then condemnation may be considered.

Hygienic handling of carcasses or portions which have fallen on the floor shall be conducted according to a procedure that has been validated as part of the operator's HACCP system based on the following parameters:

• The carcass or portion shall be immediately removed from contact with the floor to reduce the possibility of further contamination.
• All visible contamination shall be removed by e.g., washing and/or trimming in an efficient yet sanitary fashion.
• After satisfactory removal of visible contamination, the carcass or portion shall be thoroughly rinsed with water.
• The site of the fall, the frequency of falls, and the reasons for the falls should be noted. Corrective action to prevent a recurrence, if required should be incorporated as quickly as possible.

19.7.4.5 Loss of Identity

In the case where only a portion of the viscera is missing, the veterinarian or inspector may take into consideration the organ(s) which is (are) missing, the condition of the carcass and the rest of the viscera as presented, and the disease prevalence in the flock to determine if there is sufficient need to condemn the whole carcass.

In the case where no viscera are present, disposition should be determined on a flock basis, considering the following conditions:

• Rate for the lot compared to average condemnation rates for a healthy flock;
• Prevalent conditions resulting in condemnation in the flock;
• The Presentation Standard for MPIP (refer to section 19.6.2.4 of this chapter) or the Traditional Presentation Standard (refer to section 19.6.1.1 of this chapter) are into compliance; additional presentation check may be conducted if there is a question of excessive loss of viscera.

While each case must be judged on an individual basis, the severity of the defect must be brought to the attention of management and steps should be taken to immediately rectify the cause of the defect.

Note: Carcasses must be synchronized with their corresponding viscera whenever the viscera are separated form the carcass by automatic evisceration equipment. Lack of synchronization shall be treated as "loss of identity". Lack of synchronization by more than half a shackle or viscera pan is to be treated as a deficiency.

19.7.4.6 Synovitis, Tenosynovitis, Ruptured Gastrocnemius Tendon, Viral Arthritis

Rejection of carcasses due to these conditions should be based on poly-systemic effects of the carcass such as emaciation or dark colouration; otherwise trimming of the affected portion is required.

Therefore it is recommended that this condition be reported as synovitis (unless it is clearly a ruptured gastrocnemius tendon), until a more precise aetiology is established. For carcasses condemned for articular problems other than the ones described above, please report under arthritis.

19.7.4.7 Emaciation/Leanness/Smallness

Carcasses showing evidence of a prominent keel, the loss of muscle mass and body fat and an alteration of the consistency of the remaining fat, without any other sign of disease, shall be condemned and reported as emaciated. (See difference from serous atrophy of fat in the training manual)

Leaner or smaller carcasses in the lot should be approved.

19.7.4.8 Dermatitis

Generally, no carcass should be condemned for superficial dermatitis. Carcasses with dermatitis lesions may be trimmed and/or salvaged, regardless of the size of the lesion. Carcasses with lesions affecting the underlying muscle fascia such that trimming is impractical should be condemned as cellulitis.

19.7.4.9 Marek's Disease – Cutaneous Form

When the lesions caused by Marek's Disease are restricted to the skin and limited in extent, when no viscera and nerves are affected and no systemic effects are present, affected carcasses are approved following trimming.

19.7.4.10 Osteomyelitis in Turkeys

Green liver cannot be considered a sign of current septicaemia, and the presence of it is only an indication to examine the carcass further. Green liver alone is not an indication to condemn any carcass.

Post mortem disposition depends on the presence of systemic effects, e.g., the infection involves clavicular air sacs, or several long bones and/or joints and /or tendon sheaths are affected, or there are breast muscle abscesses. The entire carcass will be condemned if the infection is generalized. The condemned material must be sent to a rendering plant authorized to process inedible products.

19.7.4.11 Cellulitis

19.7.4.11.1 Chickens Including Roasters and Fowl

Under the traditional method of poultry inspection, carcasses affected with cellulitis shall be trimmed by the helper/trimmer stationed next to the inspector or, if the operator has an effective Quality Assurance (QA) program, then downstream on the evisceration line.

Under the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP), carcasses may be trimmed on-line, downstream from the inspection/detection zone.

Trimming of lesions is subject to the following:

• In the case of peri-cloacal cellulitis:

Broiler chicken carcasses with peri-cloacal cellulitis shall be removed during preselection to prevent contamination of evisceration equipment and cross contamination of subsequent eviscerated carcasses.

For roasters (> 2.6 kg live weight), localized and circumscribed peri-cloacal lesions may be trimmed after being withdrawn from the evisceration line at preselection provided there are adequate, sanitary trimming facilities.

• In the case of non-peri-cloacal cellulitis:

Broiler chicken carcasses, with cellulitis lesions larger than 2 cm × 2 cm, located elsewhere than on the wings and the legs, shall be removed during preselection. Wings and/or legs with cellulitis lesions may be removed from the carcass and condemned. Carcasses with localized skin scratches longer than 2 cm (e.g., minor longitudinal lesions located at the base of the tail) may be trimmed on-line provided that all cellulitis lesions are removed upon trimming.

Heavy/breeder fowl carcasses with cellulitis lesions may be trimmed and/or salvaged, regardless of the size of the lesion, provided such lesions are not associated with extensive subcutaneous spreading of cellulitis, nor affecting underlying muscle fascia.

19.7.4.11.2 Turkeys

Turkey carcasses with cellulitis lesions may be trimmed and/or salvaged, provided such lesions are not associated with extensive subcutaneous spreading of cellulitis, nor affecting underlying muscle fascia. In such cases, carcasses shall be condemned for cellulitis. Carcasses which are impractical to trim due to extensive emphysema with cellulitis shall be reported as cellulitis. All carcasses which cannot be fully trimmed on-line must be removed from the evisceration line for off-line trimming. Any amount of cellulitis coupled with associated evidence of generalized disease shall be condemned for the underlying cause.

19.7.4.12 Sternal Bursitis With/Without Cellulitis

"Breast buttons" (= 13 mm in turkey and = 8 mm in quails and fowl) and "breast blisters" are to be removed. Carcasses with more extensive sternal bursitis, without evidence of associated extensive cellulitis shall have the bursa trimmed or removed. Carcasses with sternal bursitis, with associated extensive cellulitis, shall be condemned for the underlying cause i.e., sternal bursitis. Carcasses with sternal bursitis accompanied with a generalized disease or condition shall be condemned for the underlying disease or condition.

19.7.4.13 Emphysema

Carcasses with emphysema associated with cellulitis or airsacculitis, refer to the policy for cellulitis or airsacculitis respectively.

19.7.4.14 Ascites

If a carcass exhibits emaciation, subcutaneous œdema, anasarca or congestion it is to be condemned. The presence of a cobblestone liver should signal one to look more closely at the carcass for subcutaneous œdema. The presence of a cobblestone liver alone is not a reason to condemn the carcass. Similarly the presence of ascites without systemic involvement should result in acceptance of the carcass.

The following table has thus been developed as a reference tool to assist veterinarians help to evaluate this condition in chickens and turkeys.

Fowl carcasses with an obviously distended abdomen shall be condemned at preselection.

19.7.4.15 Septicaemia/Toxaemia/Congestion Syndrome

Of the various lesions found in the cases of septicaemia or toxaemia, the following are those most often encountered (in decreasing order of importance):

• multi focal sub serous haemorrhages, which often affect several organs (mostly the endocardium and epicardium); sub mucosal haemorrhages of the trachea;
• congestion and œdema of various organs,
• presence of sites of infection of embolic origin in various organs;
• peripheral vasodilatation; and
• petechial and/or ecchymotic haemorrhage of the sub serosal fat, e.g., fat around the ovaries or testes.

A septicaemia infected carcass must be sent to an authorized inedible rendering plant. A congested carcass may be used for animal food.

19.7.4.16 Inadequate Bleeding

Carcasses that are inadequately bled are to be rejected or condemned.

Carcasses that are mildly red or that show redness only at the extremities can remain on the line and\or be subjected to further trimming.

Whenever there are inadequately bled carcasses (mildly red to brick red) present at the pre- selection, please refer to Chapter 12 of this manual.

19.7.4.17 Salpingitis/Peritonitis in Poultry

Condemnation for the salpingitis category shall not be used in chickens. Dry caseous material and/or caseous exudate limited to the salpinx or the immediate surrounding tissue can be removed by trimming, aspiration, vacuuming or by salvaging, A normal carcass with a ruptured salpinx with localized inflammation or no sign of inflammation in the area should be reconditioned or salvaged.

Peritonitis usually consists of malodorous, caseous or other exudate, adhesions, red fibrinous tags along the abdominal wall or the exterior of viscera. The term peritonitis is not to be used for the filmy transudate (œdema of the liver capsule) that is part of the hepatosis that develops secondary to cyanosis/ascites syndrome, as the latter terms are more diagnostic of what is actually occurring.

Carcasses with retained egg yolks may be reconditioned or salvaged.

19.7.4.18 Dark Coloured Carcasses/Cyanosis

Carcasses from birds slaughtered in a moribund state will be condemned on post mortem for Dark Coloured Carcasses/ Cyanosis. The term "moribund" should not be used for poultry dispositions related to post mortem examination/inspection.

Mild to moderately blue carcasses should be approved (provided the dark colouration is the only significant finding) as these carcasses have been shown to return to normal colour in the chill tank.

Severely dark carcasses should be condemned.

19.7.4.19 Airsacculitis

Lesions and affected air sacs shall be removed from the carcass using on-line or off-line reconditioning procedures without creating additional contamination. The remnants of the membranes, without caseum and/or exudate, will not be considered as a lesion nor as a defect for the Defect Detection Standards (DDS) and the Carcass Dressing Standards (CDS).

Carcasses with systemic effects (such as polyserositis, emaciated, dark coloured carcasses) or with rarely seen acute lesions shall be condemned. Otherwise, carcasses and/or viscera with lesions consistent with airsacculitis shall be handled as follows:

Additional Considerations:

When fibrino-caseous or caseous material is observed on the liver capsule (indicating direct extension from the air sac to the liver capsule i.e., not due to systemic spread), then carcass is passed and liver is condemned.

When the heart is enlarged (cardiomyopathy with/without constrictive pericarditis), with no evidence of caseous material in or on the pericardial sac, with/without a cobblestone liver, the heart and liver may be rejected and the carcass is passed - refer to policy on "Ascites"

Pericarditis is very rare in fowl and when present, is commonly associated with ascites (not airsacculitis). The viscera are to be condemned and the carcass is passed after removal of any affected airsacs (if applicable). For disposition of fowl affected with ascites, refer to policy on "Ascites"

CFIA veterinary advice should be sought when there is more than the normal incidence of a specific lesion.

19.7.4.20 Varus/Valgus Deformity

There is no health risk associated with this condition. It is not to be condemned, unless the carcass has other systemic signs secondary to the V/V, e.g., emaciation. Therefore the majority of these carcasses may be sent for trimming if severely deformed.

19.7.4.21 Liver Conditions Including Hepatitis

Chicken

Carcasses and their livers exhibiting these lesions as described above are to be approved or condemned (based on the possible presence of a septicaemia) under the category hepatitis as follows:

Description for Decision Tree - Carcass With Liver Conditions

A carcass with liver conditions can either be:

• with systemic effects and/or Necrotic Hepatitis, in which case
  • carcass and viscera are condemned

  or

• without systemic effects, which can lead to:
  1. Airsacculitis, ascites, fatty liver, Visceral Mareks's, et cetera - see applicable policies
  2. Normal size liver with a few red or white foci (regular shape) - carcass and liver/viscera approved
  3. Enlarged liver with red or white foci and/or liver with black or green or white granulomas (irregular shape nodules)- liver/viscera condemned, carcass approved

Under the option of necrotic hepatitis, a note is added to see the Canadian Food Inspection Agency training material for poultry dispositions.

Fatty Liver has a yellowish appearance with/without red foci (due to ruptured blood vessels) – the liver (that may be very friable) and the carcass are to be approved.

Chicken and Turkey

Bile Stasis livers may be discarded by the operator (as a quality defect) and the carcass is approved. For chicken livers which are greenish in colour but also have red and/or white foci, refer to the preceding paragraph for cholangiohepatitis. For turkeys with green livers, refer also to sub section 19.7.4.10, "Osteomyelitis in turkeys".

Turkey

Chronic granulomatous hepatitis is the most common liver condition in turkeys. Livers have multiple white fibrotic foci scattered over the surface and throughout the parenchyma. Carcasses with no evidence of systemic effects are approved and the liver is condemned.

Histomoniasis (Blackhead Disease) in turkeys may display multiple white circular depressed areas of necrosis in various sizes up to 1 cm in diameter with raised edges or multiple scattered pin point to coalescing white foci. The liver parenchyma may also have scattered green-black discoloration. The internal caecal walls display marked inflammation and ulceration. The caeca contain a dark green caseous exudate. Splenomegaly may or may not be present. Carcasses with no evidence of systemic effects are approved and the liver and caeca is condemned.

Fowl

Hepatic Lipidosis is characterized by focal to multi focal, flat (non raised), pale yellow areas (fat deposits) scattered over the surface and throughout the liver parenchyma. The liver may be enlarged and/or friable. Carcass and viscera shall be approved.

Lymphoid Leucosis (LL) is extremely rare. The milliary form of LL consists of numerous small nodules uniformly distributed throughout the parenchyma. In the diffuse form, the liver is uniformly enlarged, slightly greyish in colour, and usually friable. Occasionally the liver is firm, fibrous, and usually gritty. Grossly visible tumours almost invariably involve the liver, spleen and Bursa of Fabricius. Other organs often grossly involved include the kidney, lung, gonad, heart, bone marrow, and mesentery.

Carcass and viscera shall be condemned.

19.7.4.22 Carcasses Rejected by the Processing Plant Operator

For carcasses with minor lesions of certain conditions that do not warrant whole carcass condemnation, unaffected portions may be salvaged or reconditioned.

If an operator does not wish to market certain carcasses or derived portions otherwise considered fit for human consumption under the MIA (e.g., small carcasses, no salvaging facilities, high incidence of a condition in a flock), disposition will not be performed by the CFIA, and these carcasses shall not be recorded on the ante mortem and post mortem inspection reports.

19.7.4.23 Cyst Mites

Lesions may be detected on the underside of the skin during trimming. All carcasses from the affected lot shall be segregated and may either be discarded by the operator as plant rejects or be frozen by the operator, under a CFIA notice of detention, pending laboratory confirmation. Disposition (released or condemned) of all the carcasses from the detained lot shall be based on laboratory results of the submitted samples.

All carcasses from the affected flock are passed or condemned based on laboratory results.

19.7.4.24 Epidermal Cysts

Epidermal cysts appear as yellowish nodules of varying size located anywhere on the skin of a fowl carcass. Carcasses may be approved after removal of localized lessons. Carcasses with extensive lesions or where trimming is impractical are to be condemned.

19.7.4.25 Xanthomatosis

A massive accumulation of macrophages with fibrous tissues causes thickened yellowish areas of skin mainly on the thigh, breast and abdominal areas. Localized lesions are to be trimmed. Carcasses with extensive lesions or where trimming is impractical are to be condemned. As this is a rare condition, samples should be collected and sent to a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis if a large number of carcasses is affected.

19.7.4.26 Urolithiasis

The affected kidney/ureter is dilated and filled with clear mucus and white irregular uroliths. Carcasses are approved after the removal of the affected kidney/ureter. Carcasses and viscera with systemic effects, e.g., emaciation, are condemned.

19.7.4.27 Inspection of Suspect Turkeys for Pectoral Myopathy

19.7.4.27.1 Background

The condition is of no health significance to humans but for aesthetic reasons the affected muscular tissue shall be removed and condemned.

19.7.4.27.2 Requirements for the Deboning of Suspect Carcasses

This policy permits the inspection of suspect turkeys for pectoral myopathy in the deboning area of the plant under the following circumstances:

• Effective controls must be demonstrated according to a program approved by the CFIA and implemented by the operator;
• Suspect lots of turkeys will be identified prior to or at the post mortem inspection point. This identity must be maintained through to the point of deboning;
• Plant employees conducting deboning must receive adequate training to recognize carcasses affected with pectoral myopathy and to adequately remove all affected tissue. The deboning area must be equipped with an adequate number of knife sterilizers;
• All affected tissue must be retained and placed in containers for condemned material. Records must be kept of turkeys affected and weight of product condemned; and
• A system to notify inspection staff when affected carcasses are found must be instituted. Inspection staff will monitor the effectiveness of the inspection and trimming of affected tissue by employees.

The CFIA inspection staff will additionally monitor finished product and the deboning operation for evidence of non-compliance or missed affected tissue. Should this occur, effective corrective action must be taken or the inspector in charge may insist that all suspect carcasses be inspected for pectoral myopathy at the time of evisceration.

19.7.4.27.3 Interplant Shipping of Suspect Lots

Turkeys that are suspected of being affected with pectoral myopathy may be shipped to a processing plant for deboning. The requirements for deboning listed above shall be followed with the additional requirement that identity must be maintained from reception to deboning.

19.7.4.27.4 Approval Process

Control programs must be submitted by the operator to the Veterinarian in Charge for approval. Approved programs shall be copied to the Area Poultry Inspection Program Specialist. The operator is required to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the CFIA that plant employees have been adequately trained to recognize carcasses affected with pectoral myopathy during deboning and to remove all affected tissue. A statement to this effect signed by the operator and the VIC for the establishment is to be included with the copy to the area office.

19.7.4.28 Determination of the Number of Carcasses to Examine for In-depth Inspection of Suspect Poultry Carcasses

Organoleptic examination of carcasses is not always sufficient to detect all lesions. It is recommended that only a representative sub-set of "suspect" carcasses be examined. If no other lesions are found, then all other "suspect" carcasses can be released without further in-depth inspection. The following table illustrates the number of carcasses that need in-depth examination.

19.7.5 Veterinary Dispositions and Associated Reports

19.7.5.1 Veterinary Dispositions

Veterinary dispositions will not be performed by the CFIA unless the carcasses and viscera are presented by the operator so as to facilitate "hands-off" dispositions and the operator provides veterinary disposition work stations that comply with the applicable facility requirements described in Chapter 3 and 19 of this manual. Alternatively, the operator may elect to manually present the carcasses with their viscera to the veterinarian for a disposition. Common contact is permitted between carcasses on the racks, carousels, etc. provided that the pathology on the carcasses and/or viscera is readily visible so as to permit hands-off veterinary dispositions and the operator discards any carcasses not condemned by the veterinarian as plant rejects.

The industry helper, working next to the Inspector, is responsible for removing defective carcasses from the evisceration line and for recording the reason for rejecting each carcass as instructed by the CFIA inspector. The operator is responsible for discarding carcasses and their viscera following a veterinary disposition.

19.7.5.2 CFIA Condemnation and Rejection Reports

Effective April 1st, 2011, the CFIA switches from issuing or signing condemnation or rejection certificates for poultry to a "Poultry Condemnation Report" (CFIA/ACIA 5640), or to a "Poultry Rejection Process Control Evaluation Report" (CFIA/ACIA 5639), as applicable, for each lot of poultry for which the operator issues a Condemnation/Rejection report.

The comments section of the preceding reports may be used by the CFIA veterinarian for reporting on abnormal levels of condemnations or rejections, special lot conditions and/or new carcass deviations, or whenever a CFIA official performs carcass-by-carcass detailed veterinary inspections. Such carcasses entered on the CFIA report should be included in the related operator's condemnation/rejection report and must be included in the monthly report (CFIA/ACIA 5179, "Antemortem and Postmortem Inspection Report").

19.7.5.3 Operator's Condemnation/Rejection Reports

For the purposes of this sub-section, a lot of poultry refers to a truckload of live poultry or all of the poultry sourced from one producer/grower for a production shift or one floor of a barn, or whatever was agreed upon by the operator and the producer/grower.

The format of the industry condemnation/rejection report is left to the discretion of the operator. However, all of the information contained in the template for the disposition report (available from the VIC) should be contained in the document issued by the operator with the exception of the line "Total parts rejected (weight calculated in kg) (Optional)." Additional information may be added and the format modified to suit individual operator's needs.

An electronic version of the aforementioned template for the operator's report may be obtained by contacting one of the aforementioned industry associations or the local CFIA VIC.

19.7.5.3.1 Conditions to be Excluded from Operator's Condemnation/Rejection Reports

Carcasses with conditions listed in the following table:

• are to be handled by a designated industry employee;
• are not to be presented to the CFIA (unless requested by the VIC on a case-by-case basis);
• are not to be reported on the operator's "Condemnation/Rejection Report for Poultry"; and
• only "Extensive Bruising", "Found Dead" and "Inadequate Bleeding" are to be reported to the VIC for the monthly roll-up of all condemned carcasses.

19.8 Poultry Chilling and Freezing Procedures

19.8.1 Introduction

Methods similar to those used for poultry carcasses may be employed to chill rabbit carcasses in water provided control measures are in place to ensure that, at the time of packaging there is no increase of the hot weight of the carcass as a result of water chilling. Rabbit carcasses may also be hung on racks or chilled in coolers.

19.8.1.1 Regulatory Requirements

There is no provision in the MIR for raw, single-ingredient meat products (e.g., giblets) to retain water as the result of post-evisceration processing in excess of naturally occurring moisture except as provided for dressed poultry carcasses (and therefore by extension, parts from dressed carcasses).

The CFIA intends to amend the MIR to harmonize them with the US Final Rule: Retained Water in Raw, Single-Ingredient Meat and Poultry Products (copied into Annex Y-1, US section, Chapter 11, of the MOP).

As an interim measure, pending amendments to the MIR, giblets, salvaged portions and detached necks may absorb and retain up to 8% added water as a result of post-evisceration contact with water on the condition that the operator develops and implements a written and validated retained water control program as per this section.

19.8.1.2 Definitions

Definitions applicable to refrigeration of poultry products:

Carcass Parts

Refers to parts from dressed carcasses as listed in Chapter 7, "Cutting and labelling requirements of poultry parts".

Salvaged Portions

Refers to edible poultry harvested as part of salvaging operations, e.g., wings, wing drumettes, skinless breast fillets, legs, drumsticks and thighs.

Raw Single Ingredient Meat Product

Includes dressed carcasses, parts of dressed carcasses, salvaged portions, giblets (livers, hearts, and gizzards), ground poultry, finely textured poultry and mechanically separated poultry, either fresh or frozen.

19.8.2 Water Chilling

19.8.2.1 Salt Addition to Water or Ice

In chilling, no objection will be made to the addition of common salt to the ice or chill water, provided this is declared on the label of the finished product. The immediate container or package for carcasses, parts or portions so chilled must bear the statement: "Turkeys (chicken, etc.) chilled in ice with salt added" or words of similar meaning.

19.8.2.2 Chilling in Tanks

Where conventional tank chilling is used, care must be taken to ensure that:

• sufficient overflow of water is provided to ensure the removal of extraneous matter prior to final icing; and
• poultry products are not kept in the chilling water for more than 24 hours (if kept in tanks for more than 24 hours, continuous drainage is required).

19.8.2.3 Make-up Water Required for Water Immersion Chillers

Continuous chilling systems are to be provided with a flow-meter, to measure total water used. The volume of the initial potable water and ice in the chilling system, plus subsequent amounts added, shall equate to not less than:

• 2 L per carcass weighing = 2.5 kg;
• 2.75 L per carcass weighing > 2.5 kg and = 6.5 kg; and
• 3.5 L per carcass weighing > 6.5 kg.
• Water used in the inside/outside carcass washer may be credited as part of the preceding water volumes provided that a flow-meter, to measure total, and a pressure gauge, is installed on the inside/outside carcass washer.

19.8.2.4 Chilling Time/Temperature Requirements for Water Immersion Chillers

The MIR define refrigerate as "… to lower the temperature of a meat product to, and to maintain the temperature at, 4°C or lower, but does not include to freeze;"

All edible poultry products from live birds which are slaughtered and eviscerated in a registered establishment using water tanks in combination or not with air chilling shall be chilled as part of a continuous chilling process immediately after evisceration.

As part of the operator's HACCP system, chilling protocols for the various classes of birds and for the various weight classes processed within the establishment must be initially validated according to protocols accepted by the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.8.2.4.1 Dressed Poultry Carcasses and Parts

Immediately following evisceration and washing, all dressed poultry carcasses shall be chilled according to the following table:

If a deviation occurs, the product shall continue the chilling process and either be cooked or kept fresh. If product will be kept fresh, the shelf life/best before date must be re-evaluated and labelled accordingly. If the violation results in spoilage of the product then it must be disposed of as inedible product.

As part of a CFIA recognized HACCP system, the following may be implemented provided the process is initially validated according to a protocol accepted by the Veterinarian in Charge:

• Alternative times for chilling poultry carcasses and portions thereof to 4°C or lower; and/or,
• Packaging of poultry carcasses and portions before an internal temperature of 4°C is reached.

19.8.2.4.2 Giblets, Detached Necks and Salvaged Portions

Giblets, parts of dressed carcasses harvested during the dressing procedures including detached necks and salvaged portions shall be chilled to 4°C or lower within two hours after evisceration. However, salvaged turkey breasts, breast fillets, legs, drumsticks and thighs shall be chilled to 4°C or lower within four hours after evisceration.

19.8.2.4.3 Shipping of Carcasses not being Completely Chilled

Dressed poultry carcasses, prior to being chilled to an internal temperature of 4°C, may be shipped from a registered establishment to another registered establishment for completion of chilling provided that:

• Both establishments operate under a HACCP system which includes the chilling of such product;
• The chilling process is continuous, including during transport, and achieves a deep muscle internal temperature of 4°C within the time indicated above;
• Product is not shipped prior to achieving a surface temperature of 7°C or lower; and
• The chilling process results in chilled product which complies with the Pathogen Reduction Program requirements as contained within the section on the US in Chapter 11, Exports, of the MOP.

19.8.3 Retained Water Control Programs

19.8.3.1 General Requirements

Operators are to write and validate a retained water control protocol for water which is absorbed and retained as a result of post-evisceration contact with water, for all raw single-ingredient poultry products including dressed carcasses, parts of dressed carcasses including detached necks, salvaged portions and giblets.

The method chosen in calculating water absorption and retention shall be reproducible and verifiable.

Note: Please note that the same testing method used for validating the proposed retained water control protocols shall be used for ongoing testing of the resulting retained water control programs.

Operators may submit a proposed alternative Statistical Process Control (SPC) program to the Veterinarian in Charge to be forwarded to the area poultry inspection program specialist and then to the Chief, Poultry Inspection Programs, CFIA , Ottawa, for an equivalency determination.

19.8.3.1.1 Retained Water Declarations

Prepackaged giblets, shipping containers for bulk packed giblets and giblets contained within carcasses must be labelled with a retained water declaration as part of the product name. For carcasses containing giblets, the declaration must clearly refer to the giblets or must be truthful for both the carcass and the giblets. Further information on the labelling of retained water declarations is contained in Chapter 7 of the MOP.

A statement may be included on the label to indicate that no water has been absorbed and retained when:

• product has not been exposed to a post-evisceration process that adds water, or
• the operator has data or information that establishes that the post-evisceration processes do not add water to the product.

However, the test data and a copy of the corresponding carcass washing and chilling procedures shall be maintained on file and be copied to the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.8.3.1.2 Exempted Products and Processes

The following are products and processes that are exempted from a retained water control program:

• Multi-ingredient poultry products such as basted turkey carcasses, with/without giblets,and giblets within a basted turkey carcass.
• Raw Kosher products (treated with salt and water in accordance with Judaic law) (refer to Chapter 7 of the MOP); maximum amount of absorbed and retained water permitted by the MIR compliance shall be demonstrated by adhering to a retained water control program as described in this chapter for raw single-ingredient poultry products.
• An operator has documentation proving that products do not retain water as a result of post-evisceration contact with water; documents are filed on-site and copied to the Veterinarian or Inspector in Charge.

The following are examples of post evisceration processes involving the use of water that would not require subject products to be processed under a retained water control program:

• flushing gizzards and chitterlings to remove digestive tract contents;
• removing the lining from gizzards, the gall bladder from livers, and the pericardial sac from hearts;
• scalding of paws or feet;
• washing with water to remove excess blood, e.g., washing hearts, livers, gizzards, paws and feet; and
• washing with water to remove the contents within oral cavities and nasal passages in heads for head and feet-on poultry.

19.8.3.1.3 Non Exempted Products and Processes

Crust frozen or ice-glazed poultry carcasses are subject to the requirement for a retained water declaration unless they are basted.

The following are examples of post evisceration processes involving the use of water with or without a microbial control agent that would require the subject poultry products to be processed under a retained water control program:

• post-evisceration washing, including on-line reprocessing systems;
• transportation in water within stainless steel pipes;
• water or ice chilling;
• postchill spraying;
• thawing; and
• iced necks and backs processed through an advanced meat recovery or mechanical deboning equipment.

Note: On a case-by-case basis, the Veterinarian or Inspector in Charge, in consultation with his or her Regional Veterinary Officer and the Area Poultry Inspection Program Network Team Specialist will evaluate other post evisceration processes involving the use of water to determine whether the resulting products require a retained water control program.

19.8.3.1.4 Programs Required Per Species, Class and Age of Poultry

In this section, the word "carcass" is interchangeable with other raw-single ingredient poultry products such as livers, hearts, gizzards, detached necks, and salvaged portions such as breasts, breast fillets, wings, legs, thighs and drum sticks.

A retained water control program is required for:

• carcasses from each species and class of poultry listed in the regulations and age category; (e.g., young and mature poultry)
• each component of edible giblets (livers, hearts and gizzards);
• for detached necks; and
• for each type of salvaged portion such as breasts, breast fillets, wings, legs, thighs and drum sticks.

The same retained water control program may be used for giblets, salvaged portions and detached necks from all three classes of turkeys listed in the regulations provided that:

• the same processes and equipment are used;
• the program scope includes product from all three classes; and
• product from the three classes is included during the validation testing.

However, a separate validation test must be performed for each poultry product from each of the three classes of turkeys, e.g., separate validation tests for livers, another set of tests for hearts, a third set of tests for detached necks, a fourth set for salvaged breast filets, etc. The same retained water control program may be used for giblets, salvaged portions and detached necks from both chicken broilers and chicken roasters (but requires two separate validation tests, e.g., for livers from chicken broilers and for livers from chicken roasters, etc.).

19.8.3.1.5 Carcasses with Low Water Retention

No further ongoing testing is required by the operator to monitor retained water for dressed carcasses, as shipped or when packaged as portions, if the initial validation data (50 carcass test as described later in this subsection) indicates that:

• the average percentage weight increase for the group of 50 sampled carcasses is less than half that permitted by the regulations; and
• none of the individual carcass weight increases exceeds that permitted by the regulations.

However, the initial 50 carcass validation test for retained water must be repeated at least once each year to verify that the above two listed conditions are still being met. Records of this annual verification must be kept on file and be copied to the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.8.3.2 Writing a Water Retention Control Program

In this section, the word "carcass" is interchangeable with other raw single-ingredient poultry products such as livers, hearts, gizzards, detached necks, and salvaged portions such as breasts, breast fillets, wings, legs, thighs and drum sticks.

19.8.3.2.1 Elements of a Written Retained Water Control Program

The proposed retained water control protocol is to be comprised of the following nine elements and include information for each element as follows:

1. Purpose statement

The primary purpose is to determine the amount or percentage of retained water that is unavoidable while achieving compliance with the time/temperature chilling requirements as contained within this chapter.

Indicate which species or classes of poultry, and list all products, which are covered by the protocol.

2. Type of washing and chilling system used by the operator

Describe any post-evisceration washing or chilling/cooling processes that affect the water retention levels. Describe the chiller types, e.g., the drag-through, the screw type, the paddle type and the rocker-arm type, identified by the mechanism used to transport the carcasses through the chiller or to agitate the water in the chiller.

3. Configuration and any modifications of the chiller/cooling system components

Describe the chiller/cooling system configurations and any modifications of the chiller system components including the number and type of chillers/coolers in a series, arrangements of the chilling/cooling system components, and the number of evisceration lines feeding into a chiller/cooling system. Accurately describe the purpose and type of equipment used if there is a pre-chilling/cooling step in the process. Describe any mechanical or design changes to the chilling/cooling equipment.

4. Special features in the chilling/cooling process

Describe any special features in the chilling/cooling process, length and velocity of the dripping line, and total time allowed for dripping. Explain any special apparatus, such as a mechanism for removing excessive water from chilled carcasses.

5. Description of variable factors in the chilling /cooling system

Describe the variable factors that affect water absorption and retention. Such factors include:

• scalding temperature;
• pressure and amount of buffeting applied to the carcasses by the feather removal machinery and its effect on loosening the skin;
• method used for opening the carcass for evisceration;
• temperature of the pre-chiller;
• temperature of the chiller;
• agitation including air agitation if used; and
• time in the chiller water.

Identify the settings of all the key points. Key points refer to those operational settings which affect added and retained water and which could be modified during a work shift, e.g., water pressure within the inside/outside carcass washer, transit time and temperature for water chillers, chain speed and exposure time to water sprays within the air chiller, time on the drip line, whether cut-up and pre-packaged as parts.

6. Standards to be met by the chilling system

The chilling/cooling system must be designed and operated so as to comply with the applicable time/temperature requirements listed in this Chapter for reducing the deep internal muscle temperature down to 4°C.

7. Testing methods to be employed

Describe testing methods used, both for measuring water absorption and retention at various chilling equipment settings and chilling time-and-temperature combinations. The method for calculating water absorption and retention must be reproducible and statistically verifiable. The sample collection locations, number of samples, type of samples, sampling time period, whether carcasses will be chilled with/without necks, type of testing or measurement e.g., weighing procedures, and test results are to be included.

The trials shall represent processing procedures that can be maintained in the establishment.

8. Reporting of data and evaluation of results

Explain how data obtained are to be reported and summarized. Examples of reported information include, but are not limited to, the number of sample replicates, and the calculation or formula used to determine the level of water retention.

9. Conclusions

Explain what the data demonstrate, the conclusions reached, and how the conclusions were reached. Include the amount of retained water which is to be declared on the labels of the packaged products. Indicate how the operator will maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and describe examples of corrective action.

Further information on writing and validating retained water protocols is contained in Annex Y, US section, Chapter 11, of the MOP.

19.8.3.3 Validation of the Program

19.8.3.3.1 Sampling Procedure for Validating a Retained Water Protocol

Physical water pick-up test

A minimum of 50 whole untrimmed (Grade A) poultry carcasses are to be randomly selected, identified and weighed individually. Each carcass shall be weighed twice and the weights recorded. The initial weight of each carcass is determined by weighing it prior to the first inside-outside carcass washer after inspection. The final weight is determined by weighing the same carcass after the normal chilling and drainage time prior to packaging as a whole carcass (or as parts if the operator never packages any whole carcasses).

A data collection sheet shall contain the following:

• The percentage weight increase or decease for each carcass corresponding to the initial and final weights; and
• The average weight increase or decrease for the entire group of 50 carcasses shall be calculated and entered;

The completed data collection sheet shall then be attached to the proposed retained water control program to serve as part of the validation data.

Giblets, detached necks and salvaged portions

A minimum of 50 e.g., hearts, livers, or skinless breasts, etc. may be weighed as a bulk sample to obtain both the initial weight and the final weight. The post-chilling bulk sample shall contain the same number of units as the initial sample and be collected from the same lot as used for the initial weight.

Oven drying laboratory method

Initially the operator needs to determine what is the natural level of water as contained within the carcass parts or giblets or salvaged portions and to determine the amount of water which must be declared. To accomplish this, the operator collects a sample comprised of five:

• livers, hearts or gizzards (after removal of the pericardial sac or the gall bladder or the gizzard contents and mucosa, as applicable); or
• carcass parts (e.g., detached necks, skin less breast fillets, bone-in skin-on or skinless leg quarters or thighs, etc.); or
• salvaged portions (e.g., wings, breast fillets or legs, etc.)

The products listed above shall be from the same lot and collected prior to contact with water or ice as used to transport or chill the sampled product.

A similar group of five products is collected after chilling and drainage, (including drainage which occurs during cut-up and boning), immediately prior to packaging from the same lot. Samples must be packaged so as to prevent moisture loss during storage and transport to the lab.

Note: In the case of gizzards, gizzard pieces approximating the weight of five whole ready-to-chill gizzards may be used rather than whole gizzards. At the lab, pre-chill samples are dry oven tested for water content. A similar test is performed on the post-chill sample from the same lot. The two samples are recorded and the corresponding net difference is reported as the amount of water which was absorbed and retained by the lot based on paired sampling.

The results from fifty (50) paired samples collected from 50 consecutive lots of poultry are used to determine the:

• percentage of retained water to be declared on the packaged product;
• natural amount of water contained by the e.g., hearts, livers, giblets, skinless breasts or bone-in leg quarters, etc.

Paired sampling is not required thereafter since the amount of absorbed and retained water in packaged product can be based on the natural moisture level as was determined using the 50 paired samples as described above.

19.8.3.3.2 Assessing the Results of Validation Tests

Operations for the washing, chilling and drainage of carcasses are to be deemed to be in compliance with the regulations if:

Physical water pick-up tests

For water chilling:

• the average weight increase (or decrease) of the group of 50 carcasses (or parts from the 50 carcasses) does not exceed the stipulated regulatory maximum in section 25 of the MIR ; and
• no more than six carcasses exceed the aforementioned regulatory maximum plus 20% (e.g., for chicken carcasses which are prepackaged and are permitted to retain a maximum of 8% absorbed and retained water, no more than six carcasses from the group of 50 sampled carcasses may exceed 9.6%.)

For air chilling:

• the average weight increase for the 50 carcasses shall not exceed 0.0%;
• a maximum of 25 individual carcasses from the group of 50 sampled carcasses may have an increase exceeding 0.0% (to account for scale variability); and
• no individual carcass shall exceed 2.0% absorbed and retained water.

For the oven drying laboratory method:

• a maximum of 6 out of the 50 paired samples may exceed the amount of water declared plus 20%, e.g., to declare "Up to 8% water added"; and
• no more than 6 of the 50 samples may exceed (8 plus 20% of 8 which is 1.6%) or 9.6% similar to the pass/fail criteria.

19.8.3.4 On-going Testing Under an Approved Retained Water Control Program

Whichever method was used for validation testing (physical water pick-up tests or dry oven laboratory test method) shall be used for ongoing testing. Procedures shall be monitored on an on-going basis and the settings of the key points shall be recorded at minimum on an hourly basis by a designated plant employee as part of the HACCP system. Key points refer to those settings which could be modified during a work shift and affect the % of water absorbed and retained in the chilled carcasses. Other settings may only be checked once at the beginning of each shift.

19.8.3.4.1 Giblets, Detached Necks and Salvaged Portions

Validation test results for poultry giblets, detached necks and salvaged portions (from all the classes listed in the MIR ) shall be assessed to determine which giblet, detached neck or salvaged portion absorbed and retained the maximum percentage of water. Ongoing testing is limited to the giblet or detached neck or salvaged portion with the highest % of absorbed and retained water.

19.8.3.4.1.1 Sampling

Physical water pick-up tests

A minimum of 50 e.g., livers should be used for ongoing testing. If a test is failed, a larger sample size is recommended for subsequent tests.

Oven drying laboratory test method

Paired sampling is no longer required for ongoing testing. A single group of five e.g., livers, wings or detached necks is required for each post-validation test for retained water (rather than the sample size specified in the subsequent table).

However, one skin-on or skinless breast is a sufficient sample size for poultry breasts due to their extremely low level of retained water and their high value.

19.8.3.4.1.2 Switching Rules

Initially, for the giblet, salvaged portion or detached neck with the highest amount of absorbed and retained water, one test is required per production shift ("1/shift"). Results shall be assessed based on the average % of absorbed and retained water and may not exceed 8%.

• If 10 consecutive "once/shift" tests pass, the testing frequency may be reduced to once per 5 consecutive production
• If 10 consecutive "once/5 shifts" tests are passed, then the testing frequency may be further reduced to once per 20 consecutive production
• If 10 consecutive "once/20 shifts" tests are passed, testing frequency may be decreased to once per 3 months (quarterly testing).

19.8.3.4.1.3 Corrective Actions

If a test indicates greater than 8% absorbed and retained water, then the next available lot shall be tested. If results again exceed 8%, then:

• the affected product, and all subsequent product shall be segregated and be either drained until below 8%; or
• be used in processed product which permits water as an added ingredient; or
• be discarded as inedible material, and
• the operator must then conduct an investigation to determine the probable cause and take effective corrective action. The written retained water control program(s) shall be amended if operational parameters have changed. All written retained water control programs for giblets, detached necks, and salvaged portions, which indicated greater than 4% absorbed and retained water shall then be (re)validated.

19.8.3.4.2 Whole Carcasses

In the definition of the chilling procedure as contained within the validated program, if the transit time includes periods when the carcasses are not emptied from the chillers during either the breaks or meal periods, then the chilling system may be halted during these periods. But if the chilling procedures do not take into consideration the breaks and/or meal periods, then the chilling system shall be kept operating allowing the tanks to be normally emptied during these periods.

Note: The operator may choose to use the oven drying laboratory test method as described at the end of Annex Y-1, US section, Chapter 11 of the MOP.

19.8.3.4.2.1 Sampling Plan

The sampling plan used is based on the ISO sampling plan, ISO sampling plan 2859-1, Special Inspection level S-4.

19.8.3.4.2.2 Lot Selection and Size

The size of each lot is set at a maximum of 10,000 carcasses. A separate lot is required for each species and class of poultry listed in the MIR .

Prior to the beginning of operations, the operator shall:

• divide a single day's production into lots;
• determine the number of lots to be tested during a day's production using the table below;
• randomly determine which lots will be tested so that each lot has an equal chance of being tested; and
• weigh a sample of carcasses selected from each lot.

Example: 140 chicken (< 3.0 kg) carcasses/minute for 8 hours equals 67, 200 carcasses. Therefore production would be divided into 6 lots of 10,000 carcasses plus a seventh lot of 7,200 carcasses.

19.8.3.4.2.3 Number of Lots to be Sampled and Sample Size

19.8.3.4.2.4 Selection and Weighing of Carcasses

If sufficient carcasses cannot be obtained from a sample group to determine the final weight, then the data for that lot shall be discarded and be replaced by sampling the next available lot.

The carcasses, making up the sample for each lot, must be representative for the lot.

Carcasses to be weighed shall be selected prior to the first inside-outside carcass washer after inspection or detection, referred to as the initial weight, and be identified. Carcasses shall be weighed individually. Each initial carcass weight shall be recorded. The initial carcass weights shall be totalled.

At a predetermined point, as identified by the operator, after the normal chilling and drainage time, the identified carcasses shall be weighed a second time to determine their final weight. Each final weight shall be recorded such that the final weight corresponds to the initial weight on the operator's report. The final carcass weights from a sample shall be totalled and recorded.

Whenever the final carcass weight exceeds the corresponding initial weight, the difference shall be calculated as a percentage of the initial weight and be recorded adjacent to the corresponding final weight.

19.8.3.4.2.5 Calculating the Percentage Weight Gain or Loss

Percentages shall be calculated based on the initial weight for all the carcasses as follow:

(Final weight − Initial weight) × 100 ÷ Initial weight = Retention%

19.8.3.4.2.6 Lot Acceptance/Rejection

Physical water pick-up tests

For carcasses chilled in water:

• The average weight increase (or decrease) of the group of sampled carcasses does not exceed the stipulated regulatory maximum in the regulations
• The number of weighed carcasses with a net weight increase at or above the regulatory maximum plus 20% is equal to or less than the accept number for the corresponding inspection level (normal, reduced or tightened) in the preceding table, the lot is accepted.
• If the number of carcasses with a net water absorption and retention at or above the maximum specified in the regulations plus 20% (for inherent biological, processing and measurement variability) is greater than the accept number but less than the reject number, accept the lot but switch to normal inspection for the next test.

For carcasses labelled as "air chilled":

• A lot is assessed to be in or out of compliance with the retained water control requirements for air chilled carcasses based on the total number of (individual) carcasses with a net water absorption and retention at or above 0.5%; and
• If the number of weighed carcasses with a net water absorption and retention at or above 0.5% is equal to or less than the accept number for the corresponding inspection level (normal, reduced or tightened) in the preceding table, the lot is accepted.
• For reduced sampling, if the number of carcasses with a net water absorption and retention at or above 0.5% is greater than the accept number but less than the reject number, accept the lot but switch to normal inspection for the next test.

Oven drying laboratory test method

The water content for the poultry product (collected immediately prior to packaging) indicated on the lab report is compared to the amount of naturally occurring moisture in the applicable raw single-ingredient poultry product as determined during the initial series of validation tests.

After subtracting the natural moisture content from the water level on the lab report, the remaining water, which is the amount of absorbed and retained water, must not exceed that which is declared on the product label plus an additional 20% (to compensate for inherent biological, processing and measurement variability).

19.8.3.4.2.7 Switching Rules

Sampling begins at the normal rate. Once 10 consecutive sample groups (or lots) are shown to be in compliance, the operator qualifies for Reduced Inspection with a minimum of one test per production shift.

If an additional 10 consecutive lots are accepted under Reduced Inspection, the sampling frequency may be reduced even further to one lot per 5 consecutive production shifts.

If an additional 10 consecutive lots are accepted under Reduced Inspection, the sampling frequency may be reduced even further, to one lot per 20 consecutive production shifts.

Thereafter, the operator may group all classes of poultry carcasses that qualify for testing at the reduced frequency of once per 20 consecutive production shifts. Only the class of poultry with the highest relative level of absorbed and retained water (closest to the maximum % permitted) needs to be tested. However, each retained water control protocol needs to be revalidated each year.

If the reject number is reached or exceeded, the lot is rejected. If a lot is rejected, the chilling process may be out of control. The Veterinarian in Charge or an inspector is to be notified, the operator shall determine the probable cause, and then take immediate corrective action as indicated within the operator's retained water control program.

Non compliant product

Raw single-ingredient meat products containing absorbed and retained water above that permitted by the MIR may be:

• handled as inedible material (e.g., giblets for animal food); or
• drained until in compliance;
• cut up and/or skinned and/or boned out (provided the packaged product is in compliance); or
• used in processed meat products (e.g., basted turkey carcasses), provided that the operators have implemented a control program acceptable to the CFIA , (at both the slaughtering and the processing establishment) ensuring that all non complaint product is used only in processed product which may contain water as an added ingredient.

19.8.3.4.2.8 Decision Tree for Retained Water Control Program

19.8.3.5 Amending Approved Retained Water Control Programs

The operator may establish or change a plant specific retained water control program at any time provided it results in the production of a product in compliance with the MIR, the written procedure is amended and validated, and the new proposed protocol is approved by the Veterinarian in Charge.

19.8.4 Air-Chilled Poultry Products

"Air Chilled" is commonly used to describe poultry and poultry cuts which, after the inside/outside carcass washer step, have been chilled with cold air. Water sprays or misting devices are generally used during air chilling processes to prevent skin dehydration.

19.8.4.1 Air Chilling Time Requirements

Unlike water chilling, there are no time requirements to meet the internal temperature of 4°C or lower as long as the chilling process is continuous and air chill room temperature is maintained at 4°C or lower.

However, the CFIA would not object if the chilling process is momentarily interrupted to either individually or bulk pack and/or tie carcasses as long as:

• the product must have reached 10°C or less
• the interruption must not result in temperature increase of the carcasses
• the chilling protocol be validated to the satisfaction of the Veterinarian in Charge

19.8.4.2 Labelling and Advertising Claims

Refer to Chapter 7 of the MOP for the use of phrases or claims such as "air chilled" and "no water added".

19.8.4.2.1 Requirements of the Term "Air Chilled"

Operators of slaughtering and processing establishments wishing to label poultry products with the term "air chilled" shall have a written procedure, signed off by the Veterinarian in Charge, which assures that only eligible product (refer to the next subsection) is labelled with the claim "air chilled" or similar phrases.

Use of the term "air chilled" or similar phrases shall be restricted to carcasses or portions which are chilled:

• predominantly by means of cold air with/without water sprays or mists which apply the minimum water necessary so as to prevent excessive dehydration of the skin ; and /or
• are individually frozen or crust frozen by means of nitrogen or carbon dioxide gas; and
• the operator demonstrates through a written quality control program and validation data that there is no net increase in the weight of the carcasses as a result of post evisceration washing, chilling and drainage.

19.8.5 Freezing

19.8.5.1 Crust Freezing

Rapid chilling methods, for poultry carcasses or parts, which temporarily freeze a thin outer layer of skin and muscle (usually 3 to 4 mm) may be allowed under the following conditions:

• the operator must submit to the Veterinarian in Charge a written documented protocol for each class of poultry processed outlining:
  • the product identification and segregation into lots;
  • the packaging
  • the type and temperature of the
  • the duration of exposure to sub-freezing temperatures;
  • the time period and location for the equilibrium of internal and external product temperatures such that an internal temperature is between 4°C and -2°C;
• the surface crusting must disappear within 2.5 hours (150 minutes) of completing the crust freezing process;
• the process shall be monitored, by a designated plant employee, a minimum of every two (2) hours for crust disappearance and internal product temperature;
• the product shall be labelled as either "previously frozen" or "frozen" whenever crust disappearance takes more than 150 minutes; and
• records demonstrating compliance with all the above listed requirements shall be stored at the establishment for at least one year.

19.8.5.2 Liquid Freezing

Where liquid immersion or spray freezing is employed, poultry shall be packaged to prevent contact with the refrigerant. Poultry carcasses or portions contaminated with refrigerant are considered adulterated and shall be condemned, except where the contamination with refrigerant is slight and limited to the surface areas. In such cases, the protective bag or wrap shall be immediately removed and the carcass or portions decontaminated to the satisfaction of the VIC

An acceptable colouring agent shall be used in immersion refrigerants to make the detection of leakers easier. As an example, operators may use one of the colouring agents listed in Table III under section B.16.100 of the Food and Drug Regulations, page 211, for example beta-carotene, paprika extract, beet red or caramel. Please refer to Chapter 3.6, Pre-requisite Programs, for additional information on the requirements for acceptable non-food chemical products.

Poultry carcasses may be packaged in either clear or opaque bags for immersion in liquid refrigerant freezers. Operators are to monitor such freezing operations according to the following protocol:

• All packaged carcasses should be verified by a designated plant employee after the shrink tunnel and before the immersion freezer for bag and clip integrity.
• Process action, for the purposes of this protocol, is defined as tagging and segregating all products back to the time of the last satisfactory lot test, re-inspection of each tagged carcass for evidence of adulteration and/or loss of package integrity, releasing satisfactory packages and the removal of refrigerant and repackaging of satisfactory carcasses.
• Operators commence testing at the Normal Inspection Level. Thereafter, subsequent testing for the next shift continues at the same level as occurred at the end of the previous shift except that for shifts ending under process action, operators may elect to test at the Normal Inspection Level for the subsequent shift.
• A unit refers to a bagged poultry carcass.
• Before the start of each shift, operators must randomly select hourly subgroup test times for each production hour and record these times before product reaches the sampling location.
• Samples are to be randomly selected at the exit chute of the immersion freezer.
• Each sample should be visually and manually examined. The visual verification will verify the bag integrity, and for opaque bags, a mandatory palpation shall be made to detect soft spots indicative of the presence of coolant liquid.

Inspection staff is to verify the implementation and ongoing application of this protocol (minimum once per half shift). The inspection verification will consist of reviewing plant records and once per day, observing one test as performed by the designated plant employee.

19.8.5.2.1 Flow Chart for Inspection Levels for Bagged Poultry Carcasses Crust Frozen by Immersion in Liquid Refrigerant

19.8.6 Thawing Poultry in Water

When ready-to-cook poultry is thawed in water, the thawing practices and procedures shall be such as will prevent the product from becoming adulterated by the absorption of moisture. Such poultry shall be thawed by one of the following methods:

• in continuous running tap water of sufficient volume and for such limited time as is necessary for thawing. The thawing medium shall not exceed a temperature of 21°C;
• in re-circulated water, maintained at a temperature not in excess of 10°C, for such limited time as is necessary for thawing;
• the placing of frozen ready-to-cook poultry into cooking kettles, without prior thawing, is permitted only when a representative sample of the entire lot has been thawed and found to be sound and unadulterated. Thawing practices and procedures shall result in no net gain in weight over the frozen weight, when whole carcasses or parts thereof are thawed for repackaging. Thawed poultry may be held in tanks of crushed ice with continuous drainage, pending further processing or packaging.

19.8.6.1 Water Immersion of Poultry Carcasses for Rehydration

The plant chilling system may be used for immersing previously chilled poultry carcasses, e.g., to rehydrate or restore bloom or to "soften-up" ice packed carcasses prior to automatic cut-up machines, provided that:

• the water temperature does not exceed 4°C;
• the average moisture pick up does not exceed 2% and this is confirmed by tests conducted by plant personnel for each lot. The testing will be monitored by inspection staff;
• the tank is drained and cleaned prior to use for re-hydration; and
• carcasses are not immersed with or after current production.

Where tanks or vats in which poultry carcasses remain in non-agitated water are employed for this purpose, the above conditions also apply.

19.8.7 Refrigeration of Rabbit Meat Products

Methods similar to those used for poultry carcasses may be employed to chill rabbit carcasses in water, provided control measures are in place to ensure that, at the time of packaging there is no increase of the hot weight of the carcass as a result of water chilling.

Rabbit carcasses may also be hung on racks or chilled in coolers.

19.9 Post-Chill Procedures

19.9.1 Cut Up and Boning

For a description of poultry parts generally prepared in registered establishments, please refer to Chapter 7 of the MOP.

19.9.2 Turkey Basting

This section is to be developed.

19.9.3 Mechanically Separated Meats (MSM)

For a description of mechanically separated meat and finely textured meat prepared in registered establishments, please refer to Chapter 4 of the MOP.

19.10 Packaging and Labelling

Please refer to Chapter 7 of the MOP.

19.11 Shipping and receiving

Please refer to Chapter 3 of the MOP.

19.12 Product Reinspection

19.12.1 Poultry Reinspection Program

See Annex D of this chapter.

19.12.2 Returned Turkey Carcasses in the Event of an Actual or Perceived Malicious Product Tampering

In the event of a suspected or actual tampering incident, the Chief, Poultry Inspection Programs should be the primary point of contact regarding application and interpretation of the conditions pertaining to the protocol, with the Director, MPD, serving as an alternate.

For fresh turkey:

• Pump air into the bag using a needle.
  • While carrying out this step, hold the bag tightly around the needle.
• Withdraw the needle and stick a piece of tape on the injection point.
• Dip the inflated bag into water to detect any holes.
• If the bag is intact, repack the product in a new bag and ship again to market.
• If the bag leaks, the product must be discarded.

For frozen turkey:

• Let the bag reach room temperature to allow the bag to be inflated.
• Pump air into the bag using a needle.
  • While carrying out this step, hold the bag tightly around the needle.
• Withdraw needle and stick a piece of tape on the injection point.
• Dip the inflated bag into water to detect any holes.
• If the bag is intact, repack the product in a new bag and ship again to market.
• If the bag leaks, the product must be discarded.

Under this protocol, industry or its representatives will be responsible for conducting any testing and interpretation of results. Returned products will be kept segregated according to where they have been, to enable differentiation according to probability of exposure to tampering or adulteration. All testing and subsequent repackaging and/or destruction of the product will be conducted in a federally registered establishment, under the supervision of inspection staff from the CFIA in a verification role. Precautions will be taken to prevent cross contamination of product during testing and further manipulations.

The exterior of packaging material surrounding the products being tested will be examined visually for physical evidence of resealing of a puncture, e.g., blob of glue or tape, prior to immersion in water. Packages that fail either the visual examination or the test itself, as well as their contents, will be examined thoroughly for evidence of tampering or adulteration, for investigational purposes, after which they will be destroyed.

Products that have been in consumer hands should be tested for evidence of tampering for investigational purposes but will not be eligible for salvage if temperature control cannot be assured.

Applicability of the protocol, criteria for interpretation of results and disposition decisions may have to be adjusted by mutual agreement depending on the specific circumstances of an incident.

19.13 Pathogen Reduction Program

Raw poultry meat products should not pose a health risk to consumers. Accordingly, all operators are expected to have controls in place to prevent/eliminate relevant microbial pathogens or reduce them to an acceptable level allowing the manufacture of safe and suitable raw meat products.

The main objectives of the Pathogen Reduction Program in slaughter establishments are as follows:

• to reduce and/or eliminate food safety pathogens using Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles
• to measure effectiveness of controls applied during evisceration process by
  • using food safety indicator pathogens and
  • using a validated standard

As part of measuring the effectiveness of the HACCP programs and/or intervention measures all operators of federal poultry slaughter establishments must implement pathogen reduction program. Operators must use a validated pathogen reduction standard for following pathogens:

• Salmonella spp.
• Campylobacter spp.
• generic Escherichia coli (E. coli) – Biotype I

The Pathogen Performance Standards Program, as written in Chapter 11.7 Special Requirements by Export Markets, United States of America can be used by an operator to meet this requirement.

In the absence of validated pathogen performance standard for Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp. and generic Escherichia coli (E. coli) – Biotype I in certain poultry species (for example ducks, geese and quails etc.), the CFIA will:

• continue to assess the operator's food safety risk profile and
• work in collaboration with the industry and other federal health partners to develop acceptable domestic pathogen performance standards

Annexes

Annex A Data Collection Forms

The following documents are available upon request from CFIA inspectors: