Should Recycled Maple Syrup Be Approved as Livestock Feed?

Official title: Share your thoughts: Proposed new livestock feed ingredient - Recycled maple syrup

Closed Regulations & Permits Agriculture & Food
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency asked whether maple syrup that doesn't meet human food standards should be approved as an energy source in livestock feed. This includes syrup rejected for colour or taste issues—not safety concerns. The CFIA's evaluation found it safe for animals, workers, and the environment.

Why This Matters

Ever wonder what happens to maple syrup that's the wrong colour or tastes a bit burnt? Right now, it often goes to waste. This proposal would let farmers use it as animal feed instead. If you care about food waste or buy Canadian meat and dairy, this affects the supply chain.

What Could Change

Recycled maple syrup would be officially added to the Canadian Feed Ingredients Table as an approved energy source for livestock. Feed manufacturers could then use it in animal feed without restrictions on species or amounts. Nutritionists would adjust formulas as needed.

Key Issues

  • Is the proposed description for recycled maple syrup accurate?
  • Is there scientific data that should be considered before approval?

How to Participate

  1. Review the Feeds Regulations, 2024 and the Canadian Feed Ingredients Table for background on feed ingredient approvals.
  2. Comments could be sent by email to the Animal Feed Program at cfia.afp-paa.acia@inspection.gc.ca with "recycled maple syrup" in the subject line.

What Happened

The consultation closed on December 28, 2024. The CFIA indicated it would review all comments received and, if no significant scientifically valid concerns were raised, finalize the approval and add recycled maple syrup to the Canadian Feed Ingredients Table. A "What We Heard" report summarizing feedback was promised but has not yet been published.

Key Documents