Open ProvincesFood business: determine whether and apply for a Safe Food for Canadians licence
Map activities, foods and provinces, create My CFIA, select exact activities and commodities, then maintain preventive controls.
An overly broad licence or a supplier’s licence does not automatically cover your activities. Do not trade before confirming the duty and issued scope.
Confirm the scope
List manufacturing, processing, packaging, labelling, storage, import, export and interprovincial trade by food commodity.
Prepare the information
Check exemptions, preventive control plan, traceability, labelling, establishment and non-resident importer requirements.
Complete the process
Create profiles and parties in My CFIA, select precise activities, commodities and establishments, then pay the fee.
Keep follow-up records
Check the issued scope, correct it before activity and track renewal, inspections, complaints, recalls and business changes.
Sources and limits
Official sources are linked in the guide. Checked August 29, 2026; confirm current rules, forms and deadlines with the responsible authority.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-08-29.