Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news regarding food and beverage manufacturing, processing, packaging, labelling, safety and inspections.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-04-13
End Date: 2025-04-19

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Vegemite Compliance Issues

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a statement regarding Vegemite's compliance with Canadian food laws. During an inspection, it was found that Vegemite did not meet regulations concerning vitamin fortification and bilingual labeling. The importer has voluntarily removed the product, pending a health risk assessment by Health Canada which deemed the risk low. CFIA will work with stakeholders to allow Vegemite sales with revised labeling while seeking a long-term solution.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Canadian Business Support Amidst U.S. Tariffs

Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne announced measures supporting Canadian businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs. The program includes tariff remissions for automakers and temporary relief for specific goods imported from the U.S. used in Canadian manufacturing and food packaging. The Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility provides liquidity support to eligible large businesses. These measures aim to help businesses adjust their supply chains and prioritize domestic sources.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

Black Forest Ham Sandwich Recall

A Black Forest ham sandwich sold in Quebec was recalled due to potential Listeria contamination. Consumers are advised to return the product to the point of purchase.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: amp.cbc.ca

Provincial Announcements

Ontario Free Trade Legislation

Ontario announced the Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act to enhance interprovincial trade and labor mobility, aiming to reduce red tape and stimulate economic growth.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

New Brunswick Ontario MOU

New Brunswick and Ontario signed a memorandum to enhance direct-to-consumer alcohol sales and labor mobility, encouraging others to reduce trade barriers.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www2.gnb.ca

Research Chairs in Microbiology

INRS in Montreal established two new research chairs in microbiology with $2.8 million funding, focusing on sociomicrobiology and ecological engineering of plant microbiota.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.quebec.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

Larry Brock on Packaging Regulations

MP Larry Brock criticized Liberal packaging regulations as a 'hidden food tax,' impacting restaurants, grocers, and families.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Pierre Poilievre on Packaging Tax

MP Pierre Poilievre claimed the Liberal food packaging tax will increase costs by $400 annually and cause job losses.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Michelle Rempel Garner's Packaging Concerns

Michelle Rempel Garner criticized restrictions on food packaging, advocating for compostable single-use bags.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Glen Motz on Plastic Ban

Glen Motz argued that the plastic ban would increase grocery prices and promised Conservatives would reverse it.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

• SupplySide Connect New Jersey: Exploring transformations in health and nutrition supplements.
• Food Poisoning Travel Tips: Key advice for avoiding food poisoning while traveling.