January 25, 2008

Canada directs US$14 million for beef producers to adapt to new feed rules

The Ontario government has allocated US$14-million funding for provincial abattoirs (US$9 million) and Ontario deadstock dealers (US$5 million) to aid them in adapting to new feed rules.

In July 2007, Canada placed new requirements on the handling, transport and disposal of Specified Risk Material (SRMs) under the federal government's enhanced feed ban to keep SRMs out of the food chain.

Ontario's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky, said the investments in the cattle industry will aid the sector to adjust to new federal regulations and to compete in the global market.

The tightened federal rules were seen necessary after mad cow disease has been discovered. The latest case of mad cow was confirmed on December 18, 2007.