It's only fair: all food and beverage makers should have to tell Canadians if there is something in their products that can harm them
All Canadians deserve to know what is in their food and beverages. For millions of Canadians at risk of a potentially life threatening allergic reaction, they must know in order to stay safe. The federal government has proposed new product labelling rules that are fair to consumers and fair to the food and beverage industry. They are supported by doctors, dieticians, patient groups, consumer advocates, health policy experts, and the food and consumer product industry's representative association. They are also supported by almost 70% of Canadians. But those proposed rules are now at risk because of last minute politics.
Background
After a campaign for clear and accurate product labelling that lasted almost 20 years, the federal government announced new labelling rules for food and beverage makers in July, 2008. For the first time, wine, beer and spirit companies would have to list ingredients that are considered the most common allergens like milk, nuts, fish and wheat as well as gluten and sulphites. But just as these important, potentially life-saving new rules were about to be approved, public opposition from a single powerful lobby group - the beer industry - has put them at risk. Every other food and beverage product already has, or will have product labels providing important information for consumers. But this one industry wants special treatment by receiving an exemption from the new rules. That is not fair!
Tell the Prime Minister to stand up for the right of Canadians to safe food and beverages.
Dear Prime Minister,
I am writing to ask you to pass new food and beverage labelling rules now. It is important to me to know what is in my food and drink and if there are any ingredients I or someone I know is allergic to. People could die by eating or drinking something that contains an ingredient they are allergic to. It is not fair to give one industry special treatment and allow them not to label. The new rules should apply to all food and beverage makers. Doctors, dieticians and health and consumer advocates all agree with the proposed new rules. Almost 70% of Canadians agree too, and so do I. Prime Minister, please stand up for Canadians and pass these important food and beverage labelling rules now. Thank you.
