McDonald's E. coli Crisis Reveals Why Vegetable Contamination is Harder Problem than Beef
McDonald's E. coli Crisis Reveals Why Vegetable Contamination is Harder Problem than Beef
MPO Celebrates Ontario’s Finest by Awarding 12 Platinum Products
MPO Celebrates Ontario’s Finest by Awarding 12 Platinum Products
Organizations Join Forces to Support Indigenous Agri-food Innovation
Organizations Join Forces to Support Indigenous Agri-food Innovation
Provincial Cattle Representatives Express Disappointment in Political Support for Bill C-282
Provincial Cattle Representatives Express Disappointment in Political Support for Bill C-282
Rising Crime and the Struggles of Canada's Agri-Businesses
Rising Crime and the Struggles of Canada's Agri-Businesses
November 2024
FCC contributes $1.5 million to 82 community projects across Canada
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Farm Credit Canada: Trends in U.S. Ag and Food that Could Impact Canada in 2025
McDonald's E. coli Crisis Reveals Why ContaminationVegetable is Harder Problem than Beef
MPO Celebrates Ontario’s Finest by Awarding 12 Platinum Products
Lou Ferrusi of Fortino’s Crowned Ontario's Finest Butcher in the 11th Annual Competition
North American Cattle Industry Leaders Meet to Discuss Challenges Facing Producers
Provincial Cattle Representatives Express Disappointment in Political Support for Bill C-282
Rising Crime and the Struggles of Canada's AgriBusinesses
PUBLISHER
Ray Blumenfeld ray@meatbusinesspro.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Deb Wilson deborah@meatbusinesspro.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Scott Taylor publishing@meatbusinesspro.com
DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR
Cam Patterson
cam@meatbusinesspro.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Justin Shepherd, Graeme Crosbie, Berangere Fouqueray, Waylon Cunningham, Jack Roberts
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Patrick Cairns THE BEEF, PORK & POULTRY INDUSTRY DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Meat Business Pro is published 12 times a year by We Communications West Inc
FCC CONTRIBUTES $1.5 MILLION TO 82 COMMUNITY PROJECTS ACROSS CANADA
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is giving $1.5 million through its FCC AgriSpirit Fund to 82 community groups across Canada to support rural capital projects.
“At FCC, we are incredibly proud to support projects that make a positive impact in the rural communities where we live and work,” said Shannon Weatherall, FCC senior vice-president of ag production for Prairie operations. “Through the FCC AgriSpirit Fund, we’re investing in capital projects that enhance the quality of life and foster growth in these communities. From improving food security to enhancing community spaces, these projects are a testament to the creativity and dedication of those committed to building a brighter future for rural Canada.”
This year, the FCC AgriSpirit Fund awarded between $10,000 and $25,000 to various community improvement initiatives that enrich the lives of residents in cities, towns or Indigenous communities with fewer than 150,000 people.
Over the past 21 years, the FCC AgriSpirit Fund has supported 1,697 projects, an investment of $22.5 million.
Meat Business Pro subscriptions are available for $28.00/year or $46.00/two years and includes the annual Buyers Guide issue.
Registered charities, non-profit groups, municipalities and First Nations, Métis or Inuit governments/communities interested in funding can visit www. fccagrispiritfund.ca for eligibility requirements, to apply online and view past projects.
ABOUT FCC
FCC is proud to be 100 per cent invested in Canadian agriculture and food. The organization’s employees are committed to the long-standing success of those who produce and process Canadian food. FCC provides flexible financing and capital solutions, while creating value through data, knowledge, relationships and expertise. FCC offers a complement of financial and non-financial products and services designed to support the complex and evolving needs of the industry. As a commercial Crown corporation, FCC is a stable partner that reinvests profits back into the industry and communities it serves. For more information, visit fcc.ca.
FARM CREDIT CANADA: TRENDS IN U.S. AG AND FOOD THAT COULD IMPACT CANADA IN 2025
By Justin Shepherd and Graeme Crosbie, Senior Economists
There’s an old adage that says, “when the U.S. sneezes, Canada catches a cold.” This is undoubtably true in the ag and food sectors. And while there has been plenty of speculation about what the outcome of November’s U.S. elections could mean for ag and food policy, there are topics to monitor that will be of importance regardless of the results. In this week’s blog, we focus on three top trends to monitor in U.S. ag and food and what it could mean for Canada.
In the spring, the USDA announced a final ruling on voluntary country of original labelling (vCOOL) for beef and pork products. In essence, the ruling says that, starting January 1, 2026, meat processors who display a “Product of USA” label on their beef and pork must only use animals that are born and raised in the U.S. Currently, meat processors in the U.S. are allowed to import Canadian animals, raise and/or slaughter them, and use a “Product of USA” label. It's the latest in a two-decades long saga on country of original labelling for beef and pork products. vCOOL’s predecessor –mandatory country of original labelling (mCOOL) – was repealed in 2015.
At first blush vCOOL seems less worrisome than mCOOL given the voluntary nature of the requirements. However, Canada will face difficulties exporting livestock to the U.S. For example, Canada sends about four million piglets (less than seven kilograms in weight and 21 days old) to the U.S. annually; so, while these hogs would spend most of their life in the U.S., they wouldn’t qualify for a “Product of USA” label under vCOOL.
Industry sources are indicating that some processors could begin enforcing the rules by mid-2025. While we don’t expect this to be the end of livestock exports (Figure 1), the impacts could be significant. Basis levels (the difference between the cash price received and futures prices) for live cattle and hog exports are likely to widen and exports of processed meat products could face headwinds. Hog producers could face greater pressures given the decline in domestic processing capacity and increased reliance on U.S. access for slaughter. Quantifying the potential costs of vCOOL is challenging at this point but the WTO ruled the impact of mCOOL (in terms of foregone revenue) was over $1 billion USD annually when it was in effect.
Light blue bars indicate years when mCOOL was enacted. Source: Canadian International Merchandise Trade Database
Can we expect the U.S. pork industry to stand up for Canadian pigs? Maybe. While Canada is sending nearly 20% of its hogs to the U.S., this only represents 5% of U.S. slaughter volumes, so they can likely make up that difference in their own production. However, the two countries are highly integrated and there will likely be a push for easier regulations, especially for those piglets which spend nearly their entire life in the U.S. but wouldn’t qualify for a “Product of USA” label under the new requirements.
At the end of the day, the American consumer will determine the impact of vCOOL. The North American beef and pork markets are highly integrated, and labelling requirements will reroute trade flows and add costs. What is U.S. consumers’ willingness to pay for such products at a time when meat prices remain elevated?
THE FALLOUT FROM BIOFUEL TAX CREDIT CHANGES
Starting January 1, 2025, tax credit changes in the U.S. regarding biofuel production will take effect which could hinder the growth of Canadian biodiesel production. This raises the question: with potentially limited demand for refined canola and soy oil from domestic fuel companies, does that mean Canadian production of canola and soy oil will face headwinds in finding buyers at a time when additional crush capacity is coming online?
At present, the U.S. offers a tax credit ($1 per gallon) to blenders for mixing biodiesel or renewable diesel with conventional diesel. This tax credit is vital for supporting profitability, given that biodiesel and renewable diesel prices significantly exceed those of conventional diesel. Other government policies like the federally administered Renewable Fuel Standard or California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard have credits that also contribute to biofuel plant profitability. Historically, nearly all Canadian biodiesel has been exported to the U.S. to take advantage of some or all these credits.
However, under the Inflation Reduction Act, this tax credit has shifted from a blender to a producer credit, making only U.S. produced biodiesel or renewable diesel eligible for the credit starting next year – the inputs however can still come from abroad. This leaves Canadian refiners at a disadvantage. Canadian biofuel experts argue that without a similar credit in Canada, new domestic biofuel facilities will face difficulties getting built.
Canadian crushers continue to export canola oil to U.S. facilities, and they've been very active in 2024, setting a record already only eight months into the year (Figure 2). Even as some U.S. farm groups push to exclude foreign feedstocks from receiving credit in the future, for now Canadian oilseed crushers maintain strong profitability, driving demand for canola, amid increasing oil exports to the U.S.
Sources: Statistics Canada, Canadian International Merchandise Trade Web Application
THE U.S. FARM BILL WILL REQUIRE A REFRESH
U.S. Farm Bills cover multiple years and a wide range of agricultural and food programs. For agricultural producers, it includes commodity insurance programs, price supports and other programs like conservation.
Farm bills are typically set for a period of five years. However, when the most recent Farm Bill expired in 2023 it was given a one-year extension. This extension expired on September 30, 2024, and negotiations on the next long-term deal will start in the new year.
Canadian producers need to monitor the Farm Bill for possible impacts. Changes in support prices or insurance programs could alter crop decisions of U.S. producers. For instance, better insurance for corn might lead to more corn planting in the U.S., pushing prices down. Ultimately, choices made on U.S. farms significantly affect futures markets and, consequently, Canadian prices for both grain and livestock.
BOTTOM LINE
These are only three of the trends to be mindful of stateside as the new year approaches. There are others that will potentially have impacts. Depending on who wins the election, these policies will be approached very differently. These include the potential use of tariffs that will affect trade flows and prices, and the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) review coming in 2026. Canadian ag and food business owners should remain attentive to developments in the U.S. but must prioritize managing their own risks and controlling the variables within their operations.
MCDONALD'S E. COLI CRISIS REVEALS WHY VEGETABLE CONTAMINATION IS HARDER PROBLEM THAN BEEF
By Waylon Cunningham, Reuters
Moves by major U.S. fast-food chains to temporarily pull fresh onions off their menus on October 31st, after the vegetable was named as the likely source of an E. coli outbreak at McDonald's laid bare the recurring nightmare for restaurants: Produce is a bigger problem for restaurants to keep free of contamination than beef.
Onions are likely the culprit in the McDonald's E. coli outbreak across the Midwest and some Western states that has sickened at least 75 people and killed one. McDonald's pulled the Quarter Pounder off its menu at one-fifth of its 14,000 U.S. restaurants.
Of the 61 people on whom information was available, 22 were hospitalized, and two developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can cause kidney failure, said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
In past years, beef patties dominated the dockets of foodborne illness lawyers, before U.S. federal health regulators cracked down on beef contamination after an E. coli outbreak linked to Jack in the Box burgers hospitalized more than 170 people across states and killed four. As a result, beef-related outbreaks became much rarer, experts say.
"Produce is a much harder problem," said Mike Taylor, a lawyer who played leadership roles in safety efforts at the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and is on the board of a nonprofit called STOP Foodborne Illness.
Experts say the biggest difference is that beef is cooked while fresh produce, by definition, is not cooked. Proper cooking is a "silver bullet" against contamination, said Donald Schaffner, a Rutgers University food science and safety expert.
https://www.beaconmetals.com
Large-scale industrial produce is washed, sanitized and tested to a similar degree that beef is, but tests cannot catch sufficiently low levels of contamination, experts say.
Crops are often grown outdoors, where feces from wildlife or nearby agricultural animals can seep into irrigation water or floodwater. E. coli is a normal pathogen in the guts of animals. Cattle have it more than others, but it has also been detected in geese, boars, deer and others, said Mansour Samadpour, a food safety specialist.
Contamination could arise from using untreated manure or contaminated irrigation water, or from holding or slicing the onions in a way where they became contaminated, Schaffner said.
Samadpour, who is chief executive of IEH Laboratories and Consulting Group, and who was hired by Chipotle to overhaul its food safety regime after a series of contamination episodes in the mid-2010s, said U.S. Department of Agriculture officials insisted on stronger testing of beef. "We went from one or two beef recalls a month to one recall every year or three," Samadpour said.
Similar rigorous testing is applied to produce, and fastfood chains and other buyers often require it. But tests do not detect everything. The cleaner the product, the harder it is to detect, Samadpour said.
TOUGHER REGULATIONS
Both McDonald's and Taylor Farms, a supplier of yellow onions to McDonald's in the affected states, are large and sophisticated companies, and widely regarded by food safety experts as standard-bearers for safe practices.
McDonald's said it would stop sourcing onions from Taylor Farms' Colorado Springs facility indefinitely. The slivered onions from this facility were distributed to about 900 of its restaurants in Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and portions of other states in the region, the company said.
McDonald's suppliers test produce frequently and did so in the date range given by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the outbreak, and none of them identified this E. coli strain, company spokespeople said.
NSF INTERNATIONAL FOCUSES ON CANADIAN FOOD INDUSTRY WITH NEW WEBSITE FOR SERVICES IN CANADA
Taylor believes the fast-food chains and grocery stores, as major buyers of produce, can collectively "modernize and harmonize" the standards they expect from suppliers. The produce marketplace is fragmented and diverse.
"The only thing that could for sure destroy the microbes is radiation - but no one wants it," food-safety expert Samadpour said. It is impractical at the volumes of produce that are sold, he said. In addition, for many people radiation carries an "ick factor" when applied to food.
Global public health organization showcases services for Canada’s growing and fast-changing
NSF International in Canada recently launched a new website - www.nsfcanada.ca - to give Canada’s growing and complex food and beverage industry easy access to the global public health organization’s expertise and services in Canada. The website combines information on the depth, experience and capabilities of the NSF International Canadian office with access to NSF International’s global services dedicated to food safety and quality.
Wendy's in 2022 pulled lettuce from restaurants in several states after the CDC suspected it was the source of an E. coli outbreak that sickened dozens. In 2006, lettuce from Taco Bell was identified as the likely source of an E. coli outbreak that sickened 71 people. Taco Bell is currently owned by Yum Brands.
Contamination can extend even beyond pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella. McDonald's previously dealt with a parasitic outbreak in 2018 that sickened nearly 400.
Evolving regulations across countries and increasing complexities associated with a globalized food supply network present challenges for NSF International clients in Canada and around the world. The new Canadian website offers expertise and services to help companies navigate these challenges, including certification and auditing, consulting, technical services, training and education, food and label compliance, packaging, and product and process development.
The Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011 required the Food and Drug Administration to establish standards for the safe production and harvesting of fruits and vegetables. The FDA introduced regulations for farm produce that previously was not subject to much regulation, Rutgers' Schaffner said.
NSF International’s Canadian website provides information on the following services:
“Very often the pattern is we have a public health problem or a food safety problem and eventually Congress will react and we’ll have regulations," Schaffner said.
Certification & auditing: Third-party food safety audits and certifications, which are integral components of supplier selection and regulatory compliance. Accurate audits are the first step toward successful verification of a company’s food safety system, providing improved brand protection and customer confidence. Certifications and audits are available for animal and produce in the agriculture industry, GFSI certification and management system registration.
Taylor, the former FDA official, said that while beef contamination was more or less solved through government regulation, improving the safety of produce is best left to buyers, such as McDonald's and other fast-food chains.
Consulting: A full-service team approach providing technical resources, expertise and insight for a wide range of food safety and quality services. NSF International provides finished product inspection testing for food,
and beverage industry across the supply chain as an
MPO CELEBRATES ONTARIO’S FINEST BY AWARDING 12 PLATINUM PRODUCTS
Meat & Poultry Ontario (MPO) recently celebrated Ontario’s finest at their Awards Gala in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Thirty-eight (38) awards were given to the winners of Ontario’s Finest Meat Competition alongside awards that recognized outstanding community contributions, Ontario’s Finest Butcher, industry leaders and the anniversary of members who were celebrating 10 and 25 years with Meat & Poultry Ontario.
“The Meat and Poultry Ontario Awards are about celebrating Ontario’s best,” said Franco Naccarato, Executive Director of MPO. “From showcasing everything from our Finest Butcher to our Finest Meats, we are celebrating the artisans in our industry that continue to propel the industry forward.”
The Ontario Finest Meat Competition is a bi-annual competition showcasing the best products in Ontario meat and poultry. From traditional to new and innovative taste profiles, 16 companies showcased their finest products with over 110 submissions for the chance to be crowned the platinum winner in 12 categories. Judging took place in June at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario.
Entries were evaluated by food industry professionals and media experts including Alexa Clark - Digital Strategist, Erin Circelli-Russell - Fanshawe College, Sabrina Falone - Marketing Consultant, Maurice Desharnais - Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery, Emily Richards - Chef and Author, Nithya Caleb - Food in Canada, Scott McQuay - Viscofan Canada, Steven Canclini - Reiser Canada, Brad Ryall - Hela Spice Canada Inc, and Troy Spicer - Fanshawe College.
Judging criteria was based on taste, aroma, texture, consumer experience, and visual appeal. The top three entries from each category were selected based on the judges’ combined scores to receive the honour of Silver, Gold and Platinum recognition.
• Premium Dried or Dry Cured - Halenda's Fine Foods ‘Dried Capicola (Necken)
“There’s a new building coming forward, a new abattoir, I think that’s the French pronunciation of slaughterhouse,” said Councillor Mike Starchuk. “So Surrey will have a newer facility with a better capacity so people will have the ability to not have to ship an animal to Alberta to have it processed. The applications have gone through the Agricultural and Food Sustainability Advisory Committee.”
• Deli Roasts - Halenda's Fine Foods ‘Smoked Montreal’
The facility is proposed on a 25-acre property within the Agricultural Land Reserve at 5175 184th St. The planned 30,000-square foot abattoir in Cloverdale would process up to 100 head of cattle per day.
According to a city report, that would make it larger than any other processing facility in B.C.. But it would still be small by industry standards, compared to the largest meat processing plants in Alberta that process 3,000 heads of cattle per day.
The proposed facility would be fully enclosed and designed
For more information, visit https://www. meatpoultryon.ca/
“Our focus is on trying to bring a more efficient, sustainable local product to the market, realizing we can do that now in a very limited sense,” said Les. “I caution people when talking to them and they say, ‘What a
LOU FERRUSI OF FORTINO’S CROWNED ONTARIO'S FINEST BUTCHER IN THE 11TH ANNUAL COMPETITION
Ontario’s Finest Butcher Competition hosted by Meat & Poultry Ontario, now in its 11th year, is a celebration of the craft of butchery and the outstanding skills of Ontario's artisans. This year's competition featured top butchers from across Ontario who displayed their exceptional talents and creativity with the final competition taking place this past weekend at the Meat Industry Expo with the winner being announced at the Meat & Poultry Awards Gala.
The competition was fierce, with three talented butcher finalists, including Lou Ferrusi from Fortino’s Stoney Creek, Dylan Miedema from Townsends Butchers, and Sully Hakimi from Halenda’s Meat. Inspired by the theme of ‘Global Inspiration’ each of the three final contestants were challenged to transform three surprise proteins into stunning displays inspired by global cuisines and flavours from around the world in 45 minutes.
Judged on details of workmanship, and merchandising each butcher infused their creations with personal touches, showcasing the rich traditions and flavours from different cultures and presented to the crowd and
judges. It was a masterclass in skill and creativity by each contestant. Their displays highlighted the quality of Ontario meats and invited customers to explore new culinary adventures, reminding us that every cut has a
It was Lou Ferrusi’s seasoned and skillful butchery skills, creative storytelling and excellence in presentation and time management that set him apart, securing his position as this year's champion. The productsboneless chuck roll, a whole chicken, and boneless pork loin - for the finals were donated by Abate Packers, Ontario Beef, and Domingos with pantry items supplied by Malabar Ingredients.
Fortino’s is proud to congratulate Lou Ferrusi, winner of the 2024 Ontario’s Finest Butcher competition. Starting in a small family operation he was trained from “hoof to plate” and has now been a meat manager with Fortinos for the past 20 years. “A butcher for over 40 years, Lou mentors new meat cutters and plays an essential role in our in-store meat cutter training program. “Well done, Lou!” says Guido Alfonsi, VP of Merchandising and Marketing, Fortinos Supermarkets.
Lou showed his appreciation by saying “It’s an honour for me to win an award for something that I’ve truly enjoyed doing for the past 40 years. Thanks to Meat & Poultry Ontario, for organizing a great competition, and to all my colleagues and competitors. A big thanks to Fortinos for supporting me through this competition!”
met a lot of other farmers and livestock producers in other parts of Canada, and we all seem to have the same issues and same concerns.
Franco Naccarato, the Executive Director for Meat & Poultry Ontario, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This competition highlights the exceptional skill, dedication, and artistry that butchers bring to their craft. Lou Ferrusi's performance was inspiring, demonstrating the mastery and creativity that sets Ontario’s finest apart. His commitment to excellence and his ability to honour traditional techniques while embracing innovative flavours is what truly makes this competition a celebration of the best in Ontario.”
CMB: I understand that your farm was the first in Atlantic Canada to be involved in the TESA program.
DF: Yes, I think we were the first farm east of Ontario as far as I understand. I’m not sure why the eastern associations wouldn’t have previously nominated anybody because there are many farms here on PEI doing every bit as much as we are as to attain a high level of sustainability. Anyway, we were very surprised when the PEI Cattleman’s Association nominated our farm.
The first elimination round took place at Handtmann Canada in Waterloo on September 9th. In that round each competitor was given 30 minutes to break down a pork bone-in leg, butt, and loin. Competitors were judged on specific core competencies such seaming, tying, slicing, boning and trimming and frenching in addition to professionalism and workmanship. The degree of boning and the choice of retail cuts from the remaining materials was the competitor's choice. The pork used in the elimination round was graciously provided by Conestoga Meat Packers and over 700 lbs was generously donated on their behalf to Second Harvest.
CMB: And then you were attending the Canadian Beef conference in Calgary and you won.
DF: Yeah! That was a very nice moment for us. But I don’t like to use the word win actually. However, being recognized for our commitment was a real honour. If you want to know the truth, it was a pretty humbling experience. As I said to CBC when they phoned me after the conference, I was just floored, really couldn’t believe it.
CMB: So now that you have been recognized, do you think that will draw more attention and garner more nominations out of Atlantic Canada going forward?
This year’s judges included well six wellrespected industry professionals including, Mario Henry from The Yes Group, Steiven Canclini from Reiser Canada, Stefan Seher of Handtmann Canada, Peter Baarda of J & G Quality Meats, Jamie Waldron from Jamie Waldron’s Butchershop, Gerhard Metzger from Metzger Meats.
DF: Absolutely. We’ve gotten a lot of good press highlighting the island cattle industry. I’m positive you’ll see more farms in our neck of the woods nominated next year. And I have to give the Canadian Cattleman’s Association recognition for choosing a farm from Prince Edward Island. We are small players in the national beef industry and I think it was a real credit to their organization to recognize us. They treated all the nominees royally and it was a real class act. It was a wonderful experience.
In addition to donning the official champion’s jacket, Ferrusi took home a prize package valued at over $3000 including a Minimax Big Green Egg™ Ultimate Kit, Eno La Plancha Grill, a $250 cash prize from The Yes Group and a Marriott gift card.
For more information, visit https://www. swineweb.com/
https://www.yesgroiup.ca
ORGANIZATIONS JOIN FORCES TO SUPPORT INDIGENOUS AGRI-FOOD INNOVATION
Bioenterprise, Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine, and the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF), are partnering to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.
The two organizations will be working together to connect Indigenous agri-food businesses and entrepreneurs with valuable connections, support and funding opportunities in Canada’s agri-food innovation space through Bioenterprise’s national network of mentors, resources and expertise.
“We are pleased to welcome NCIAF to Bioenterprise Canada’s national network and to get to know Canada’s Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders in the agri-food sector,” says Dave Smardon, Bioenterprise Canada CEO. “By working together and building a connected agri-food innovation ecosystem that actively involves Indigenous voices, we can help advance the innovation and entrepreneurship that will strengthen food security and sovereignty.”
The NCIAF is committed to nurturing vital relationships among the agriculture industry, government, academia, and other like-minded non-profits with Indigenous communities and Peoples. Its focus is on empowering Indigenous communities and Peoples, supporting reconciliation, and addressing the impacts of generational and systemic trauma.
“We chose to become a Bioenterprise partner because we share similar goals and objectives in breaking down barriers and building collaboration in the agriculture sector,” says NCIAF President & CEO Kallie Wood. “We believe in the importance of creating a community
of entrepreneurs, advocates, and partners dedicated to driving innovation across the nation to ultimately expand business growth and foster a more inclusive and dynamic agricultural landscape.”
Bioenterprise, through its national ecosystem partners, will support NCIAF and its partners connect to new opportunities, discover and leverage new funding sources, and access underutilized services that will assist more Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs while also promoting sustainable practices and enhancing food security.
ABOUT NATIONAL CIRCLE FOR INDIGENOUS AGRICULTURE AND FOOD
The NCIAF is an Indigenous-led, non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of reconciliation in the agriculture industry and the creation of a national dialogue for Indigenous agriculture. We are pathfinders that are passionate about removing barriers and delivering comprehensive solutions to Indigenous Peoples and communities.
ABOUT BIOENTERPRISE CANADA
Bioenterprise is Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine. As the country’s national agri-technology focused commercialization accelerator, Bioenterprise uses its 20 years of industry experience and its national and international network of experts, mentors, funders, advisors, researchers, government and industry partners to help small and medium-sized agri-food businesses connect, innovate and grow.
For more information, visit www.nciaf.ca
PROVINCIAL CATTLE REPRESENTATIVES
EXPRESS DISAPPOINTMENT IN POLITICAL SUPPORT FOR BILL C-282
Provincial cattle organizations are disappointed in the show of support for Bill C-282 and are urging policymakers to stand up for free trade.
A significant rally took place on Parliament Hill October 10th, in support of Bill C-282, An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act (Supply Management). The event saw participation from various agricultural associations and all political parties.
“Supply management was initiated by a Liberal government just over 50 years ago. Then, we supported supply management, and today, we support supply management,” said Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood Canada, Lawrence MacAulay. MacAulay urged the Senate to pass Bill C-282.
Bill C-282 has completed three readings in the House of Commons and is currently under consideration in the Senate committee. The Bill seeks to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development Act to ensure that the Minister cannot make international trade commitments that would increase tariff rate quotes or reduce tariffs on dairy, poultry, and eggs beyond the set limits.
The National Cattle Feeders’ Association (NCFA) and canola associations were among those who appeared to provide their insights during the committee sessions this week. The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) members observed the rally before heading to committee meetings to support witnesses. The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) is scheduled to testify after the upcoming break week, further contributing to the discussions surrounding the bill.
Bill C-282 aims to strengthen supply management systems, ensuring stability and fair pricing for dairy, poultry, and egg farmers across Canada. However, the Bill has faced criticism from various agricultural sectors.
On October 8th, Alberta Beef Producers, Alberta Pork, Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association, and Team Alberta Crops wrote a letter to Matt Jones, Minister of Alberta Jobs, Economy, and Trade, expressing deep concerns over the Bill, which prioritizes the economic interests of a specific sector while potentially harming other exportdriven industries, particularly in Alberta. They say the Bill, which restricts trade negotiators from discussing supply-managed sectors like dairy, poultry, and eggs, will negatively impact the 90 per cent of farmers who rely on trade.
On October 11th, provincial organizations including including British Columbia Cattlemen’s Association, Alberta Beef Producers, Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, Manitoba Beef Producers, Beef Farmers of Ontario, New Brunswick Cattle Producers, Nova Scotia Cattle Producers, and Prince Edward Island Cattle Producers, released a joint statement expressing surprise and disappointment at the cross-party support for Bill C-282, criticizing the bill for undermining the interests of Canada’s agri-food industry and exportdependent sectors. The organizations agree Bill C-282, which restricts trade negotiations involving supplymanaged sectors, threatens vital trade relationships and sets a dangerous precedent.
Bill C-282 also threatens the long-term sustainability of the agriculture industry and could weaken Canada’s position in international trade negotiations. This is particularly significant with the upcoming review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) in 2026.
The bill is also concerning as it fosters a protectionist sentiment, undermining Canada’s leadership role in global forums such as the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) and other tradedependent sectors argue that the Bill marginalizes broader agriculture, which relies heavily on exports. In 2023 alone, Alberta exported $17.9 billion in agriculture and agri-food products, with more than 50 per cent of Alberta’s beef being exported. Other commodities like pulse and canola export over 90 per cent of their production.
Brodie Haugan, Chair of ABP, says Bill C-282 poses a significant threat to Canada’s trade-dependent economy.
“As a nation that relies heavily on exports, this bill undermines our ability to negotiate effectively on the international stage and sets a dangerous protectionist precedent. We urge the Senate committee to recognize the broader economic implications and work together to ensure that common sense prevails.”
Doug Roxburgh, Vice Chair of ABP, adds, “this legislation prioritizes the interests of one sector at the expense of the entire Canadian economy. With over half of our GDP dependent on trade, it is crucial that we protect our ability to engage in fair and open trade negotiations.”
ABP is urging the federal government and the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee and International Trade, to recognize the extensive implications that Bill C-282 could have, not only on agriculture but also on Canada’s broader economic interests.
The Committee needs to hear from more tradedependent industries and recognize the complexity of this bill and its wide-ranging ramifications.
For more information on Alberta Beef Producers, visit https://abpdaily.com/
RISING CRIME AND THE STRUGGLES OF CANADA'S AGRI-BUSINESSES
Small agri-businesses in communities across Canada have been raising the alarm about rising crime and the financial, physical, and emotional toll it is taking on them. According to a recent report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), the number of Canadian small businesses, including agri-businesses, impacted by crime has increased significantly over the past year. In 2023, 24% of small agri-businesses indicated they had been impacted by crime and community safety issues. That number has risen to 38% in just the span of a year, with another 44% saying they have not been impacted but are worried about crime and community safety issues. Additionally, both crime rates and severity are significantly higher in the Western provinces—especially in the Prairies—than in Central and Eastern Canada.
Crime rates are increasing nationally, with Saskatchewan seeing the highest rate Incident-based crime statistics, Statistics Canada, 2021
The rural nature of agricultural businesses has left them feeling abandoned by their governments and local law enforcement agencies in dealing with rising crime. CFIB members have shared their frustration, reporting frequent incidents of thefts and vandalism that, despite their cumulative damage, are dismissed as too minor for police action. Some report they are targeted by the same individuals over and over again because nothing is done about it. In fact, the top reason some business owners give for not calling the police is because they believe it will not make a difference.
small agri-businesses are often left to manage their own security without meaningful support from the institutions designed to protect them. Many are investing in stronger security measures, like cameras or security personnel, and are having to lock up all equipment when it is not in use. However, security measures can be particularly expensive – with some members receiving quotes of over $10,000 for minimal security camera coverage – given the rural nature and size of agricultural business.
These actions are financially costly and add to an already substantial workload . For many business owners, repeated incidents of theft, vandalism, or harassment are leading to heightened anxiety, increased operating costs for security measures, and ultimately, a growing sense of frustration with a system they feel is failing them.
This growing disillusionment highlights a larger issue:
At the federal level, Bill C-275 An Act to amend the Health of Animals Act (biosecurity on farms) proposes to increase the penalties for entering a place where animals are kept without lawful authority an offence. Though the original purpose of this bill is to prevent animals from being exposed to potential diseases, it could have also served to deter break-ins and thefts.
However, the Senate recently proposed an amendment to the bill that would remove any notion of trespassing, citing that trespassing falls under provincial, not federal, jurisdiction. CFIB sent a letter to all MPs in support of this Bill. Bill C-275 was supported by the vast majority of MP at the House of Commons and we recommend it receives royal ascent with its original text and purpose.
We should note that notions of trespassing exist in other federal codes and Acts. Regardless of which level of government is responsible for what, small business owners feel like there is a need for greater cooperation and coordination between all levels of government to support small agri-businesses contending with increases in crime and community safety issues
Thus, CFIB is calling on all levels of government to take action by: improving approaches to recidivism, including reevaluating bail rules and connecting repeat offenders to mental health and addictions services; setting service standards around police response times; and providing better resources to SMEs – such as proactive funding to invest in improved security. Ultimately, with the recent increases in theft and vandalism, law enforcement stretched thin, particularly in rural areas, and the prohibitive cost of security improvements, agri-business owners want to see true collaboration between governments, law enforcement, and community stakeholders.
The challenges Canadian agricultural business owners are facing do not have easy solutions, but our current piecemeal approach needs to change so that small agri-businesses can get back to do what they do best: serving their communities and feeding Canadians.
Small businesses feel that governments are not working well together on crime and safety issues and that the taxes they pay do not translate
Bérangère Fouqueray is a Public Policy and Research Intern for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members (4,900 agri-business members) across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca.
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