China’s suspension of Canadian meat products has raised some questions about use of the beta-agonist ractopamine. We want to make clear that Maple Leaf Foods does not use ractopamine in our pig production operations.
We value our long-standing and successful trade relationship with China. We also value the opportunity to address China’s protein needs during this challenging time in the global pork market.
Although we weren’t involved in the matter that prompted China’s action this week, we will work with government officials to ensure that our valued customer’s concerns are addressed quickly and thoroughly.
China’s trust in our safe and wholesome pork is paramount for us and we are committed to taking every step possible to restore our valued customer’s confidence in the Canadian regulatory system, so we may collectively continue supplying our products to China.