Canada extends interim zinc maximum for piglet feed

The Feeds Regulations, 2024 established maximum allowable levels of zinc in swine feeds. An interim maximum of 3,000 mg/kg currently applies to starter swine feeds. During industry consultations, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) indicated its intention to reduce that maximum to 300 mg/kg to better align with standard nutritional requirements for pigs. The feed and swine industries have indicated that the lower maximum may pose challenges for feeding young piglets (starter swine).

Based on additional information provided by the swine sector, the CFIA will extend the interim maximum of 3000 mg/kg for starter swine feeds while the new information is assessed and the most appropriate path forward is determined.

CFIA will continue to work closely with associations from the swine and feed industries on this issue. Any future changes will be communicated to industry well in advance of implementation to ensure sufficient time for planning and adjustment.