Tong, a new immigrant from China, recently graduated with a BBA from Yorkville U
ID: 465617 • Letter: T
Question
Tong, a new immigrant from China, recently graduated with a BBA from Yorkville University. Her father, who is vice president of a factory in China producing unique rice and noodle sauces, is keen on opening up the Canadian market. Fortunately, Tong had made many friends in the BBA program who were somehow connected to the food service industry.
To make his case to the shareholders in China, Tong’s father wanted her to write-up all the requirements to legally sell their products in Canada, including packaging, labeling, insurance, payment options. Tong came to you for help.
What would be the most important points for Tong and her father to consider to ensure they have all the kinds of information they might need to be successful in this venture?
Explanation / Answer
Food safety and proper labelling is an essential concern for Canadians. Labelling standards for food items help make sure that consumers have the information they need about the food they are purchasing. If you plan on packaging, distributing or selling food products in Canada, you must ensure they meet labelling standards.
Food safety
Your local health unit is the key contact for information on food safety. Local health authorities are responsible for carrying out food service inspections.
You should contact your local health authority and arrange an inspection of the premises, equipment and processes to make sure your business is complying with provincial and federal legislation
Food labelling
If you are involved in the production, service or processing of food products, you will need to comply with safety standards and labelling regulations from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).
Municipal regulations
Many municipalities have licences specific to food handling or food preparation. To know what municipality your business falls under, you can contact the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO).