The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is launching a consultation on proposed updates to guidelines for industry on simulated meat, simulated poultry products and certain plant-based protein foods, and is encouraging industry and consumers alike to submit their views by December 3, 2020.
Simulated meat products and simulated poultry products are nonmeat foods that have the appearance of meat or poultry products.
They must meet specific provisions in the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR), which state that these products:
- are clearly represented as simulated
- must be clearly labelled as such
- meet specific requirements for composition and fortification
The CFIA’s current guidelines for simulated meat and simulated poultry products apply to products that are made to resemble meat or poultry products. An example of such products are plant-based burgers that are made to look like a beef burger by using ingredients that simulate the red colour or fat marbling effect of animal-sourced meat. The agency also recognizes there is a need to update the guidelines to include food products that are plant-based proteins which are not intended to resemble or substitute a meat or poultry product. Examples include properly identified tofu burgers, lentil loaves or soy patties.
The proposed updates to the guidelines seek to clarify what constitutes simulated meat or poultry products in accordance with the Food and Drug Regulations and Safe Food for Canadians Regulations. The guidelines outline the rules for labelling, advertising, composition and fortification for such products. Clearer guidelines will better support industry in their understanding and application of the regulatory requirements.
More about CFIA services and information visit CFIA website.