This message is an update to importers of fresh fruits and vegetables on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) plans with regard to romaine lettuce imports from the U.S. during the fall of 2021.
Further to the previous communication distributed through MyCFIA on June 4, 2021, the CFIA is confirming that a comprehensive sampling and testing requirement will be re-instated this year. The requirement will take the form of a licence condition which will be in effect from September 30 to December 31, 2021.
Over the coming weeks, each person or business holding an SFC licence to import fresh fruits and vegetables will receive a message through MyCFIA with the detailed licence condition.
Similar to last year, the comprehensive sampling and testing
requirement will apply to romaine lettuce originating from the Salinas Valley of California, as well as salad mixes containing such lettuce. A proof of origin will be required for products originating from other areas of the U.S..
The details of the licence condition and other accompanying guidance will be communicated to each licence holder via the MyCFIA portal well in advance of the September 30, 2021 implementation date for the licence condition.
Importers are encouraged are monitor their MyCFIA accounts for updates.
The complete notice is available at the following link.