The Canadian Meat Inspection Regulations were amended this month to strengthen Canada's poultry and meat inspection programs in federally registered establishments, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced. The amendment allows for the implementation of the Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP) and is designed to help Canada maintain a safe and high-quality food supply. The Modernized Poultry Inspection Program (MPIP) establishes trained industry employees to conduct all post-mortem carcass-by-carcass examinations under continuous monitoring and assessment by government inspectors. Abnormal carcasses are still referred to a CFIA veterinarian for appropriate disposition. Establishments choosing not to adopt MPIP must continue to implement either traditional inspection, where government inspectors perform all post-mortem defect detection activities, or the Canadian Poultry Inspection Program (CPIP), where government inspectors and industry employees share post-mortem defect detection responsibilities. Under CPIP or MPIP operations, plant quality control employees are required to receive training so they have the necessary skills and knowledge to properly perform their duties. A copy of the amendment can be obtained from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Web site at www.inspection.gc.ca or the Canada Gazette Web site
