Advocacy

Lambda

Grain farmers across Canada are facing uncertainty following Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) decision to restrict the use of the insecticide lambda-cyhalothrin on crops used for livestock feed. The changes came into effect in April, prohibiting the use of crops treated with lambda for livestock feed, including any seed screenings yet allows the same crops to be used for human consumption.

This requirement presents a challenge for the grain value chain as any crop entering the grain handling system is eligible to be used as livestock feed, making it difficult for growers to use different practices for grain used for feed and that used for export or human consumption.

For more information, go to: keepitclean.ca

GGC’s position

GGC opposes the PMRA’s decision due to the impracticality of separating crops used for both food and feed. GGC has urged the PMRA to reconsider its decision, advocating for the removal of the food versus feed designation. Notably, the US Environmental Protection Agency permits the application of lambda-cyhalothrin on feed grains. Failure to resolve this issue results in one less tool available for Canadian growers to control certain pests and creates a disadvantage compared to American competitors.

GGC remains dedicated to actively collaborating with the PMRA to seek a solution that upholds the strong reputation of Canadian grains for safe and healthy markets.

Supplemental Information