Obligations of the Agri-Food industries

First, when we talk about the agri-food industry, we are referring to "all economic activities related to the production, processing and distribution of food products from agriculture, livestock farming or fisheries." ¹It is therefore the industry that transforms raw materials intended for human consumption.

Agri-food companies have a mandate to ensure that the quality of their product is safe for consumption. To achieve this, they have certain obligations to fulfill, including having certain components of the water distribution system inspected regularly. What could be the consequences if they did not adhere to this maintenance process?

How is water used in this industry and what is its importance?

What are the risks associated with the lack of maintenance of water system components?

Food contamination can be caused by colorless chemicals, cleaning products or any other toxic substances that have just entered the water system. For example, a cross-connection of chemicals in the water system can be dangerous if it is not properly isolated from drinking water supply by an appropriate backflow prevention device.

The water may also have been contaminated with bacteria due to a connection to a pipe that has been unused for several months and contains stagnant water.

Although documented cases are lacking, the United States (28 participating states) recorded 214 outbreaks associated with a drinking water system from 2015 to 2020. These outbreaks affected 2140 people, resulting in 563 people hospitalized and 88 deaths. Overall, in the United States, waterborne pathogens cause 7.15 million cases of illness, 118,000 hospitalizations and 6,630 deaths annually, representing direct health care costs of $3.33 billion³.

If contaminated drinking water comes into contact with food during processing, the agri-food company may face serious consequences such as a massive recall of products already in store. An Ontario company faced these consequences in 2024 following 3 deaths and 20 illnesses in other provinces. This also contributed to a loss of consumer confidence followed by a significant drop in incomes.

Is there a water law for the agri-food industry?

What are some examples of possible backflows according to Inspection Canada?

Pour conclure, les entreprises agroalimentaires doivent adopter et mettre en place de bonnes pratiques comme :

- Inspecting the water distribution network annually (at least) to optimize water management,

- Using rigorous cleaning hygiene procedures,

- Washing hands (staff hygiene),

- Installing a backflow prevention device at the building's water inlet and at all areas at risk of contamination,⁶

- Having the devices inspected annually as specified in applicable laws and standards.

As additional information, the government provides a water control plan for food preparation⁷ and a guide of good practices to assist food businesses. ⁸

Water and Food Safety: a fragile balance