Introduction

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (“OMAFRA”) regulates provincially-licensed meat plants (abattoirs and free-standing meat plants) under the Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001 (“FSQA”) and Regulation 31/05 (“Regulation”).

To assist OMAFRA in meeting its responsibilities under the FSQA and the Regulation, it has inspectors who inspect the plants and it has auditors who audit the plants. One resource developed to help them assess compliance with provincial operational requirements, are these Meat Plant Guidelines (“Guidelines”).

The Guidelines are made publicly accessible in an effort to provide clarity and transparency. They may assist plant owners and operators in understanding how OMAFRA inspects and audits their meat plant and the criteria against which they are inspected and audited. However, it is imperative that everyone understands the limitations on their use.

These Guidelines are intended for guidance and informational purposes only. In the event that these Guidelines conflict with the FSQA or any of its regulations, please take notice that the law shall prevail for enforcement and compliance purposes. The Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001 and its regulations can be found on e-Laws.