On April 25, 2018, the regulation respecting the indication of the origin of fresh fruits and vegetables was published in the Gazette officielle du Québec.
The regulation comes into force on the fifteenth day following the date of its publication in the Gazette officielle du Québec, Part II, on May 9, 2018.
It aims to recognize fresh fruits and vegetables produced in Quebec sold in bulk or prepackaged, by imposing the identification of their origin.
Here is an excerpt from the edict:
1 - The origin of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Quebec and prepackaged for sale must be indicated in a conspicuous way and in indelible characters on their packaging or container using the expression “Product of Quebec,” “Cultivated in Quebec,” or “Harvested in Quebec.” The expression “of Quebec” may also be attached to the name of the fruit or vegetable in question.
When fresh fruits or vegetables grown in Quebec are sold in bulk at retail, the indication of their origin must be placed in close proximity so that there is no uncertainty as to the fruits or vegetables that are being referred to.
2 - All advertising relating to the sale of fresh fruits or vegetables grown in Quebec must mention their origin.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec (MAPAQ) has prepared a Guide for the application of this regulation.
In accordance with the principles of information transparency and in the promotion of fruits and vegetables, the QPMA is well aware of how short this deadline is for the application of this regulation and the challenges it presents to our members. We have informed the government of our questions on the subject with comments on its immediate operational adaptation.
Please send any questions you have on the regulation and any examples likely to limit the implementation of this regulation in your operations to Marie de Tarlé at mdetarlesalmon@aqdfl.ca.
We will pass your concerns on to the relevant people at MAPAQ and make sure your interests are well represented.
Your cooperation is much appreciated.
Please feel free to contact Eduardo Diaz at Eduardo.Diaz@mapaq.gouv.qc.ca with any questions you have on the application of the regulation.
