DuBreton Calls For More Labelling And Transparency Regarding Gene-edited Food Products

duBreton products. (Credit: CNW)

QUÉBEC CITY — duBreton is responding to Health Canada’s recent decision to approve the use of gene-edited meat in the Canadian food system without mandatory labeling requirements. This decision comes on the heels of Health Canada’s proposed approach to cloned-animal foods, which was redacted following consumer and industry concern.

According to duBreton in a press release, these decisions “underscore growing concern about the pace at which emerging animal technologies are being introduced into the food system without sufficient transparency or meaningful consumer engagement.”

duBreton believes that gene-edited technologies and food products derived from them must be clearly and properly labeled to ensure consumer transparency. duBreton also stated that this responsibility rests with government oversight officials, who have thus far declined the call for mandatory labeling.

“Canadians have been very clear about their concerns surrounding gene edited meat in their food supply,” said Vincent Breton, President of duBreton. “Approving gene-edited meat without labeling ignores those concerns. Proper labeling gives people the information they need to make informed choices about the meat they eat. Anything less is misleading.”

In response to what the company is calling a “regulatory oversight”, duBreton announced that it will voluntarily label select products with a new claim: ‘Verified No Cloning or Gene Editing’.

“This is about transparency and trust,” said Breton. “Until there is a clear and consistent regulatory framework, we believe it is our responsibility to give consumers the information they are asking for.”

DuBreton calls on the Minister of Health, Marjorie Michel, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Heath MacDonald, to immediately establish mandatory labeling for all gene-edited foods.

duBreton maintains that transparency, public trust, and market stability must remain central to food policy decisions, particularly as modern technologies continue to emerge.

“Decisions of this magnitude must balance science with consumer confidence,” said Breton. “Clear labeling is a simple, practical step that protects consumer choice and the integrity of the Canadian food system.”