Farm Direct Marketing: Know the Regulations is a collection of six new publications that has just been added to the Explore Local resource tool box.
“Together, these new publications give Alberta farm direct marketers an introduction to the federal and provincial requirements that must be met when producing and marketing food products in Alberta,” says Karen Goad, farm direct marketing specialist, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Grande Prairie.
The six publications in the new collection are:
General Legislation highlights sections of the pertinent legislation that apply to the production, processing and sale of all food products regardless of where and how they are sold.
Food Labels outlines the basic information that must be included on any food label such as ingredient listing and allergens. All food labels, regardless of where food products are sold, must comply with federal legislation.
Food Claims provides basic information about some of the various claims that can be made about food products, such as “organic,” “light,” “no sodium,” “sugar free” or “gluten free.” “If you are considering making any type of claim to advertise or sell your products, you should contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for guidance,” says Goad. “Considerable time and resources may be needed to obtain approval for a claims statement.”
Meat and Meat Products, Poultry and Poultry Products and Fruits, Vegetables and Products provide an overview of the pertinent legislation that applies to the production, processing and sale of meat, poultry and horticulture products regardless of where and how they are sold.
“As a producer or processor who markets food products, you need to become familiar with all the legislation that applies to your operation,” adds Goad. “The new Farm Direct Marketing Know the Regulations collection of publications can help you get started.”
Source: Agriculture and Rural Development