Discover how Canada’s new CFIA guidance on gene-edited livestock feed aligns with US standards. Will this boost innovation in plant breeding and feed safety?
Canada has made a significant move in the regulation of livestock feed from gene-edited plants, aligning its guidance with that of the United States. On May 3, 2024, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) published an updated guidance document for the assessment of novel feeds from plant sources. This update was highlighted in a recent report by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN).
Understanding Novel Feeds
According to Canada’s Feeds Regulations, novel feeds are defined as those feeds which are composed of or derived from microorganisms, animal sources, or plant sources that:
- Are not approved as livestock feed in Canada through listing in Schedule IV or V of the Feeds Regulations; and/or,
- Contain a novel trait.
Key Updates in the Guidance
Following a 2023 consultation, CFIA has confirmed in updating its guidance document, Guidelines for the Assessment of Novel Feeds: Plant Sources, that feeds derived from gene-edited plants will be regulated like any other plant-derived feeds. These feeds will be controlled based on the traits or characteristics of the product, not on the development method.
As a result, feeds derived from plants produced using gene-editing techniques will only be regulated as novel feeds should any ingredient not be listed in Schedule IV or V or should an ingredient have a novel trait that means it is no longer characteristically similar to the conventional ingredient listed in Schedule IV or V. In situations where there is a novelty, the feed would be required to undergo pre-market assessment and approval by CFIA, just like any other novel feed ingredient, whether conventionally developed or derived through biotechnology.
Alignment with US Regulations
This updated guidance is in alignment with the US FDA regulatory approach for animal foods derived from plants developed through gene-editing techniques. Both countries are determining novelty based on a plant trait/characteristic approach rather than the process/methodology for development.
Industry Reactions
The Canada Grains Council, Canola Council of Canada, and Cereals Canada have issued statements applauding the CFIA guidance update. They highlight that this guidance provides the industry with long-awaited clarity and will enable continued investment and innovation in plant breeding.
“This update marks another step forward in Canada’s approach to agricultural biotechnology,” noted FAS/Canada in their report on Canada’s policy updates on novel foods and plant breeding techniques, including decisions on environmental release and regulations on seeds.
Key Takeaway: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency‘s (CFIA) updated guidance on novel feeds derived from gene-edited plants simplifies the regulatory landscape by focusing on product traits rather than the development method. This alignment with US regulations is expected to enhance industry clarity and boost plant breeding investment and innovation.
