The federal government is considering turning over to the private sector responsibility for making sure labels on processed fruit and vegetables accurately reflect the product.
A Bloc QuŽbecois MP has complained it is a short cut that could undermine consumer confidence in the product.
Liberal MP Jerry Pickard, spokesperson for agriculture minister Ralph Goodale, told the Commons last week the industry is divided over whether government should continue to provide this service.
He said consensus is being sought, to be implemented within the year.
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Pickard said “health and safety of Canadians” will remain the driving force in the inspection and labeling system.
In this case, however, the private sector may be able to do the labeling and save some money.
BQ MP Jean-Guy ChrŽtien complained it was another retreat by government from its obligation to provide service to the industry and consumers.
The Quebec separatist MP saw it as an attack on Quebec.
“It would seem that every time things go well in Quebec, the government tries to throw a wrench in the works to show that things are not going so well.”
