Anne Kennedy is the Deputy Director of the Food Industry Division for Market and Industry Services Branch for Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada. Her presentation is about the obligations and research that must be completed before companies can use health claims to promote their food and health products in Canada.
As regulators are concerned about the safety and scientific substantiation of claims, issues that may need to be considered before seeking regulatory approval include GMO use, the new definition of fibre for labelling and advertising purposes, and the several aspects of food that need approval, such as food additives and food colouring. She emphasizes the requirement that health claims be defended through scientific research, and the need for companies to align their business strategy, marketing strategy and regulatory approval plan. This presentation was a part of the Alberta Institute of Agrologists 11th Annual Banff Conference, March 31-April 2, 2015.
