Larger fines for illegal slaughter, uninspected meat

The sale of uninspected meat is illegal in Alberta. Illegal slaughter and food safety non-compliance pose a risk to human and animal health and could harm Alberta’s entire livestock and meat processing industry. If passed, the Meat Inspection Amendment Act would increase fines from a maximum of $10,000 to $100,000 for each offence.

Alberta’s government is proposing to increase these fines to ensure there is a significant deterrent, so offenders are motivated to comply with the Meat Inspection Act. The proposed changes would support food safety for Albertans without increasing consumer costs for inspected meat or operating costs for industry. The changes propose increased fines for those who commit an offence under the Meat Inspection Act and would bring Alberta in line with other jurisdictions.

“We are taking action to maintain public confidence in our food system. I strongly encourage all Albertans to buy their meat from licensed operators and retailers, and while buying meat, ask your retailer where the meat comes from and if it’s inspected.”

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
In addition to increasing fines, amendments would extend the amount of time to investigate and lay charges for the illegal slaughter and sale of uninspected meat. Currently, the act allows inspectors one year after the offence to investigate allegations of illegal slaughter or sale of uninspected meat. If passed, the investigation timeframe for a complex case would be extended to two years from the date the offence came to the attention of an inspector.

“Food safety is something that most Albertans take for granted because Alberta has some of the best people in our province and country looking out for our health. Both the federal and provincial regulatory bodies truly have the best interests of all Albertans in mind when they go out each day to do their jobs. That is the reason why changes are needed and made, to improve overall food safety and strengthen our provincial acts and regulations, to protect the health and safety of all Albertans.”

Mike Bouma, general manager, Family Meats
 
“As a meat safety and quality researcher, I applaud the Alberta government for their proposed amendments to the Meat Inspection Act. The substantial increase in penalties for contravention of the Meat Inspection Act will help to ensure that the meat that is available to consumers is safe for consumption.”

Lynn McMullen, professor emerita, University of Alberta