With proposed amendments to the Meat Inspection Act, the province is looking to increase fines for offenders from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation in response to a rise in illegal animal slaughter and the sale of uninspected meat.
A few months ago, several properties in Rocky View County, Mountain View County, and Wheatland County were searched as part of an RCMP investigation into unlawful livestock dealings. Four individuals were subsequently charged, implicating several Calgary stores.
Provincial leaders assert that these changes deter illegal activities while ensuring consumer prices remain unaffected and compliant businesses face no additional costs. Additionally, the amendments would align Alberta’s meat inspection laws with standards in other regions.
The push for higher penalties is driven by concerns over the risks posed to vulnerable populations, including children and seniors, and the impact of illegal meat sales on Alberta’s livestock sector.
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson emphasized the importance of purchasing from licensed sources, encouraging consumers to inquire about their meat's origins and inspection status.
"We are taking action to maintain public confidence in our food system," said Sigurdson.
The proposed amendments also extend the investigation period for illegal slaughter and uninspected meat sales. After an offence occurs, inspectors have one year to investigate and press charges. Still, if the amendments pass, this period would extend to two years, allowing for more thorough investigations.
Alberta’s government stresses that all meat sold or distributed in the province must come from an inspected slaughter or processing facility. There are 121 provincially licensed abattoirs in Alberta, each staffed with on-site inspectors who verify safety standards before and after slaughter.
The inspection team comprises 65 inspectors and specialists dedicated to supporting facility licensing, conducting inspections, and performing ongoing safety surveillance. The province also offers additional inspected slaughter days, including weekends, to accommodate community needs and cultural celebrations.
"Food safety is something that most Albertans take for granted," said Mike Bouma, general manager of Family Meats. "This is why changes are needed—to improve overall food safety and strengthen our provincial acts and regulations to protect the health and safety of all Albertans."