No Fines for Grocers Mislabeling Imported Food as Canadian: Consumer Outrage
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has identified twelve instances of “maple washing,” where grocers use Canadian branding on imported food products. The CFIA received complaints between February and May, and while the agency took action in each case, no fines were issued. In one instance, the issue took four months to resolve, involving avocado oil at a Sobeys-owned store. Concerned consumers and experts advocate for stricter enforcement, including fines, to prevent misleading labeling and ensure the integrity of “Buy Canadian” initiatives.
John Q. Hosedrinker