Quebec’s food and agriculture minister, Laurent Lessard, announced new measures Friday aimed at countering fraud in the meat industry
The measures were deemed necessary following a recent investigative report by French network TVA, indicating that ground beef and veal sold in Quebec supermarkets had been found to contain pork.
“Consumers have a right to know what they are buying and what they are putting on their plates,” Lessard said. “Food substitution is a fraudulent practice.”
In a written statement, Lessard went on to say the situation was unacceptable and thus required a new inspection protocol.
The targeted inspections, including analyses of meat samples, will apply to all retailers who prepare and package their own ground beef or veal.
Food inspectors working for the ministry and the City of Montreal will be responsible for carrying out the inspections.
False or misleading labeling on food products can lead to fines ranging from $500 to $3,000 for a first offense. Repeat offenders can be fined anywhere from $1,500 to $9,000.