Finally, we recommend that the government ensure sufficient resources to monitor and enforce meat product labels. While product labels in themselves are not a food safety issue, they are a gateway to consumer perception of safety. A 2008 BIC consumer survey indicated that 83% of Canadians express a preference for Canadian beef. The term “Canadian beef”, to them, was shorthand for a wealth of positive attributes, including that it tastes good, it's fresh, it's a product they trust, it's safe, and it's healthful. Hence, any labels or promotional material identifying beef as Canadian must be lawful and truthful. When misrepresentation of products occurs, the consumer may end up with a substandard experience, thus damaging the reputation of Canadian beef. Rigorous monitoring and enforcement of product labels play a role to maintain confidence in the perceived safety of food products, such as meat, in Canada.
To conclude, we are committed to food safety education with the consumer and the supply chain. We believe there is an important role for both industry and government to play. It is a shared responsibility. While Canada is a global leader in food safety, we believe Canada can raise the bar on food safety processes, regulations, public education, and the monitoring and enforcement of proper use of product labels.
Thank you.