Microbial Risk Analysis of Food in Canada

The consideration in Canada of risk analysis for microorganisms in food by the Health Protection Branch (HPB) is in its formative stage. These analyses have become necessary because of the need for better control of imported and domestically produced food. A working group has been established between Health Canada and Agriculture and Agrifood Canada to consider a joint approach to risk analysis for foodborne microbiological hazards. Within the Bureau of Microbial Hazards of the HPB four health-risk determinations have been initiated. Three of these are for broad categories of products: dairy, fish and shellfish, and meat and poultry. These are meant as background documents for more specific risk assessments. The fourth, on cracked eggs, is designed to give management options for the control of this commodity. These determinations are being developed as required and different approaches are being considered. The working group is in agreement that standard definitions of terms and methodologies need to be used, and that these should come from discussions with other national and international agencies and associations, such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Recommendations include the need both for risk analysis to provide a clear process for food control by government and industry, and for directed research and surveys to provide more information on the status of hazards at different stages of specific processes from preharvest to consumer handling.