Canada approves PRRS-resistant pigs for use in food and feed

Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced the completion of independent, comprehensive safety assessments on pigs resistant to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome viruses (PRRSV) following applications from Genus PLC and PIC Canada, Ltd., respectively. Health Canada has concluded that foods made from these pigs are as safe and nutritious for people to eat as pork currently available in Canada. The CFIA has confirmed that these pigs are also safe and effective for use in livestock feeds.

Improving resistance to PRRSV in pigs will help farmers avoid illness in their herds from these viruses, reduce antibiotic use, and improve animal welfare, while supporting a more stable, affordable and sustainable food supply.

While genetically engineered foods are considered as safe and nutritious as conventional foods, the Government of Canada recognizes that information about genetic engineering is important. That is why we have been working with the Canadian General Standards Board since November on a public review of the National Standard for labelling and advertising of foods that are, and are not, products of genetic engineering. The CFIA uses this Standard to provide its guidance to companies on the labelling of foods.