There are a lot of regulations and
requirements surrounding the importation of food
products into Canada. These regulations are regularly updated as new
information and standards are enacted; which can make the importation process
confusing and often frustrating. Failure to comply with importation
requirements can result in heavy fines and other consequences. However, an
experienced customs broker in Calgary, such as those at ARGO Customs,
can help you navigate the process of importing food products into Canada.
One of the more strictly regulated
requirements is the country of origin labeling. For some food products, declaring
the country of origin is voluntary; however, for some products, particularly
those with a higher risk of spreading food born illnesses, this is mandatory.
These food products requiring mandatory country of origin labeling include:
- Wine and Brandy
- Dairy Products
- Honey
- Fish and Seafood
- Fruits and Vegetables – both fresh and processed
- Eggs – both shelled and processed
- Meat Products
- Maple Products
Remember, it is important to understand
that country of origin labeling is not indicative of food safety. All food
products, regardless of country of origin, must meet the same food safety
requirements as those produced in Canada, as outlined by the Canadian Food
Inspection Agency (CFIA). These requirements change regularly
and ARGO Customs’ experienced customs
broker in Calgary continuously monitory these changes to ensure their
clients maintain their compliance.
In order to ensure
compliance, ARGO Customs need several bits of information regarding
the food product you wish to import. This information includes:
- A description of the goods to be imported
- Country of Origin
- Country of Export
Country of Origin is not the only labeling
requirement. For some products, such as prepackaged food items, the company
responsible for the product must be noted on the label. These requirements
include:
- Prepackaged food items must contain the name and address of the
company responsible for the product, either the importer or the
manufacturer. - Food products completely manufactured outside of Canada must
declare that the product is imported.
When declaring that a product is imported,
you have three options. These options can include:
- The name and address of the importer and/or manufacturer.
- The name and address of the Canadian company with a country of
origin declaration on the label. - The term “Imported for” or “Imported by”,
followed by the name and address of the Canadian Company.
An experienced customs
broker in Calgary can help you navigate the often confusing labeling,
handling, inspection, and other regulations as outlined by the different
Canadian agencies. The professional staff at ARGO Customs will be
able to ensure the products you wish to import not only meet the labeling
requirements, but also the Canadian Standards for food safety.
To learn more about the labeling
requirements and importation regulations surrounding the importation of food
products into Canada, please contact the expert staff at ARGO Customs. The knowledgeable customs broker in
Calgary will help you meet every requirement and regulation to ensure a stress
free experience. ARGO Customs is dedicated to providing their clients
with the highest level of service through the use of their innovative software,
and up-to-date knowledge on all importation regulations. With decades of
experience on their side, ARGO Customs are able to help exchange products from
any country using any type of transportation.