Can I, as a producer operating at the farmgate without inspection, provide custom services to others?
No. This would be a change from the current practice. The farmgate exemption would be for producers participating in the freezer trade. By providing custom services to others, your activities are no longer limited to the freezer trade. Therefore, you must be inspected. Can I operate a meat processing plant without inspection? No. All meat processing plants (i.e. pickling, smoking, manufacturing sausage, etc.) must be inspected and must use inspected meats only, even if located at the farmgate. What will a licence/permit for a meat plant/meat processing plant cost? Fees established for licensing/permitting of meat plants/meat processing plants will be consistent with other food establishments (i.e. restaurants, foodshops, etc.). What will it cost meat plants for slaughter inspections? A system for inspection services will be put in place based on the volume and efficiency of the meat plant. Penalties will be established for inefficient use of services. The department is anticipating a 1
