Canadian government helps fund kosher food safety

Canada’s federal government will help fund the safety of kosher food products.

Industry Minister Christian Paradis, who also is responsible for agriculture and agri-food, announced a grant of up to $764,000 to enhance the safety of kosher food products produced in Canada.

The announcement was made earlier this month at the offices of the Jewish Community Council of Montreal, also known as the Vaad Ha’ir, which is coordinating the effort across the country.

The Canadian Kosher Food Safety Initiative is aimed at ensuring the highest level of food safety at all phases, from the raw materials to processing, distribution and retailing, the Canadian Jewish News reported.

“Food safety is a priority for this government and for all Canadians,” Paradis said. “This investment will further increase consumer confidence in the safety of kosher food and help build a more competitive sector.”

The initiative also seeks to create a Canadian council on kosher food safety in which the different kosher brands are invited to participate, the CJN reported.

“This is in an effort to standardize food safety processes for the kosher industry,” Vaad executive director Rabbi Saul Emanuel said, adding that universities are being asked to assist in the development of standards.

Participation by industry and kashrut organizations is voluntary.