Labelling Beef Correctly
Beef labels do more than identify a cut. Depending on how a product is packaged and sold, Canadian labelling requirements can govern the information that must appear and how claims are presented.
Labels need to be accurate
Processors and producers should not use information that is false or misleading.
Requirements vary depending on the product, packaging and how it is sold, so processors should use the current rules applicable to their operation.
Production claims deserve special attention
Claims about how cattle were raised can include statements relating to feed, hormones, antibiotics, organic production and other production methods.
CFIA guidance states that method-of-production claims must be accurate, truthful and not misleading and may need to be substantiated.
“Hormone free” is not the same as “no added hormones”
CFIA guidance does not accept “hormone free” as an appropriate claim because hormones occur naturally in animals.
Claims such as “raised without the use of added hormones” have specific criteria.
If a farm wants a production claim placed on its beef, establish who is responsible for supplying and supporting that information.
Inspection and grade are different claims
Inspection status should not be confused with a Canadian beef grade.
Beef grading itself is not mandatory. Where grade claims are used, applicable grading and labelling requirements matter.
Keep your references current
Food labelling requirements change. Processors should use current CFIA and applicable provincial guidance rather than copying labels from another business.
- CFIA – Meat and Poultry Product Labelling
- CFIA – Method of Production Claims
- CFIA – Grades on Food Labels
Last reviewed: September 2026.