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Frequently Asked Questions: Food and Drug Regulations (as they relate to food)

The FAQs below are meant to provide Canadians and businesses with general information about the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's regulations.

1. What is the purpose of these regulations?

The Food and Drug Regulations, under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act, regulate food, drugs, and cosmetic products to help protect the health and safety of Canadians. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is responsible for the enforcement of the provisions related to food.

2. What are the key elements of these regulations as they relate to the mandate of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency?

Part A - Administration: sets out powers, definitions and obligations that generally apply throughout the regulations.

Part B - Food:

3. How do these regulations affect Canadian businesses?

Parts A and B, and certain divisions of Part C of these regulations are most relevant to businesses when interacting with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. These parts of the regulations provide businesses with requirements for the manufacture, packaging, labelling, importation, advertisement and/or distribution for sale of food and veterinary drug products in Canada.

4. When did these regulations come into force?

The Food and Drug Regulations came into force on May 25, 1949. The Food and Drugs Act was introduced in 1920 and by the late 1920s, regulations were developed under the Act.

5. Where can I get more information?

Please refer to the Food section of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's website for more information. Further information on the regulation of food in Canada is also available under the Food & Nutrition section of Health Canada's website.

Questions relating to the Food and Drug Regulations may be directed to the Food Safety Specialists at the CFIA regional office.

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