A key requirement under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) is that Canadians who buy, sell, import, or export fresh fruits or vegetables (inter-provincially or internationally) must be members in good standing of the DRC, unless they qualify for specific exemptions. This replaces the previous option under the Canada Agricultural Products Act (CAP Act), which allowed businesses to choose between a Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Produce License or DRC membership.
Under the SFCR, the CFIA Produce License is discontinued, and DRC membership is the sole requirement for trade compliance.
The SFCR, which came into force on January 15, 2019, is a set of Regulations administered by the CFIA that primarily focuses on food safety and traceability. These regulations include specific provisions for trade and commerce in the fresh fruit or vegetables sector, outlined in Part 6, Division 6, Subdivision C of the SFCR.
The following resources provide information about Safe Food for Canadians. If you are not a member, it is essential to determine if a membership is required to comply with the Regulations. A set of self-assessment tools, created by the DRC, is available to help you determine whether or not you need a membership or if you are exempt from this requirement.
Resources
Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR)
- Part 6, Subdivision C, Trade of Fresh Fruits or Vegetables
- Understanding the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations: A Handbook for Food Businesses
Safe Food for Canadians Act (SFCA)
Requirements and guidance by food commodity: Fresh fruits or vegetables
