How-To Guide on Food and Beverage Processing

This How-To Guide is designed to assist you with secondary research by giving you key information and contacts for the food and beverage processing industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For general regulations applicable to any business operating in the province, see our Business Start-Up Info-Guide.  It contains information on incorporation, taxation, labour laws, intellectual property, and more.

For details on any organization listed in this guide, contact the organization directly.

If you have any questions about this guide, or, for information on our Network Site nearest you, please contact us directly:

Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre
90 O'Leary Avenue
P.O. Box 8687
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 3T1
Telephone: (709) 772-6022
Fax: (709) 772-6090
Toll-free (information): 1-800-668-1010 (in the Atlantic region only)
TTY Toll-free (hearing impaired): 1-800-457-8466
E-mail: info@cbsc.ic.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.cbsc.org/nl
Hours of operation: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Start your business plan
1.  What is a business plan?
2.  Can I do my business plan online?
3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?
4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

Start your research
5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?
6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my region?
7.  Where can I find a profile of the food and beverage industry?
8.  Where can I find business statistics?
9.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?
10.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?
11.  Are there trade shows I can attend?
12.  Where can I get training?
13.  How can I find suppliers?
14.  Where can I find information about exporting my products?
15.  Where can I find information about pet food manufacturing and processing?

Know the regulations
16. What government departments or agencies do I need to contact?
17. What information do I need to put on my labels?
18. How do I get a bar code?

Finance your business
19.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?
20.  What government financing is available to me?
21.  What other agencies offer financing?

Start Your Business Plan

1.  What is a business plan?
A business plan is simply a written document that describes the future path of a business. A good business plan explains the business concept, summarizes the objectives of the business, identifies the resources (both in terms of money and people) needed by the business, describes how those resources will be obtained, and tells the reader why the business will succeed.

Business plans come in many shapes and sizes. Sections common to most business plans include:

• an executive summary which summarizes key points of the business plan in one or two pages;
• an overview which introduces the reader to the business;  
• a description of the products and services;  
• an overview of the industry in which the business will compete;  
• a marketing strategy which summarizes the product, promotion, pricing, and distribution strategies of the business;  
• a description of the management and staff;  
• an implementation plan; and  
• a financial plan that includes balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements.  
  Business plans can vary in length from a few pages to over 100 pages. Although there are no hard and fast rules, many sources recommend that business plans should be between 10 pages and 25 pages in length. Remember that a business plan is a summary; you can always provide more information if asked or you can attach more detailed background documents to your business plan.

A business plan is important because:  

• the process of preparing a business plan will force you to think about your business, research some options, recognize opportunities and risks, and test some of your assumptions;
• it will help you identify the cash needs of your business;  
• it can be used to raise funding from banks and from investors;  
• it can be used to tell employees, investors and others about your plans and strategies; and  
• it provides a benchmark against which to compare the progress and performance of your business.  
  It is a good idea for all businesses to prepare and regularly update their business plans. However, small businesses are most likely to prepare a business plan when they are just starting up or when a major change in their business is occurring (and often when additional investment or a loan is needed).***

2.  Can I do my business plan online?

Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre (CNLBSC)
The Interactive Business Planner is an award-winning business planning tool that enables you to do your business plan online!  With the IBP, you will:

• be guided through each section of your business plan using a question and answer format
• learn definitions and tips, and view sample business plans to help you to write your own plan
• have financial projections prepared for you, based upon the information you provide, and
• use the power of the Internet to assist you in researching your business plan.

Metro Business Opportunities

The Online Business Planner is MBOC's interactive solution to the difficulties of planning for a business.

3.  Where can I find a sample business plan?

Business Plan Handbook Series
The Business Plan Handbook is an 8-volume set of books published by Gale Publishers. Each volume contains sample business plans based on actual North American businesses. The Business Plan Handbook is not available online; however you can visit any of our Network Sites and view the books, or call 1-800-668-1010.

Samples related to food and beverage production are:

• The Italian Eatery (Biscotti Bakery)
• Bread crafter (Bread Bakery)
• Grandma Miller's Cookies & Muffins (Cookie Shop)
• Clarence Pratt Enterprises, Inc. (Food Manufacturer)
• Rio Grande (Food Processor)
• Good Earth Solutions (Gourmet Foods Company)
• Sparkling Horizon Bottled Water (Bottled Water Manufacturer)
• Venezia Coffee Roasters (Coffee Roaster)
• Juniper Creek Brewing Company (Micro brewery)
• Harbour Brewing Company (Micro brewery)
• Homesteaders' Pub & Grub (Micro brewery)

4.  Who can help me write my business plan?

Y Employment and Enterprise Centre
A recognized leader in business plan development, staff of the Centre offer in-depth one-on-one counselling to help clients determine the viability of a business. The client is responsible for writing the plan; however, an experienced business consultant guides clients through each section at a comfortable pace.

Y Employment & Enterprise Services - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Community Business Development Corporations
CBDC's are located throughout the Province. Staff assist in the creation of small businesses and in the expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and technical services to entrepreneurs. Technical services include business counselling & advice. Fees for services may apply - check with your local CBDC.

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Entreprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway - Memorial University
Business coaches offer technology-able, youth entrepreneurs assistance in evaluating their idea, determining the human, material and financial resources required, developing an enterprise plan, and connecting with the most relevant resource. No fee for services.

Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Gateway (MUN)
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
Faculty of Business Administration
Business Building, Room 4014
St. John's, NL  A1B 3X5
Telephone: 709-737-8855
Fax: 709-737-2383
E-mail: gateway@business.mun.ca
Web site: http://www.business.mun.ca/gateway

Metro Business Opportunities Corporation (MBOC)
Through the business plan development component of the Entrepreneurial Opportunities Program (EOP), staff offer clients one-on-one assistance in developing their business plan. There are no fees for services. However, the application process is competitive and limited to a maximum of ten (10) individuals.

Avalon - St. John's Metropolitan Area
Metro Business Opportunities Corporation (MBOC)
35 Blackmarsh Road
Triton Building, Suite 107
St. John's, NL  A1E 1S4
Telephone: (709) 738-1626
E-mail: contact@mboc.ca
Web site: http://www.mboc.ca

Private consultants
See Business Consultants in the yellow pages of your telephone directory if you wish to hire a private consultant to develop your business plan for you. Private consultants usually charge an hourly rate plus expenses (e.g. photocopying; long-distance telephone charges; etc.).

Start Your Research

5.  What is the economic outlook for Newfoundland and Labrador?

Department of Finance
Information on the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador can be found on the Department of Finance Web site. Specifically, look for these sections:

• The Economy (an annual publication)
• Economic Overview
• Economic Indicators
• Major Projects
• Forecasts
• Statistics ( includes links to the Newfoundland Statistics Agency; Community Accounts; and Statistics Canada)
• Population Projections

6.  What strategic sectors are being promoted by my Regional Economic Development Board?

Regional Economic Development Boards (REDB)
The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is divided into twenty economic zones each represented by a Regional Economic Development Board (REDB) whose job it is to facilitate the development of business and economic opportunities in its zone.

Each of these Boards has developed a strategic 5-year plan which lists sectors identified as having strong potential for growth. Many boards have their plans posted on their respective Web sites.

INTRD - Sector Development Specialist - Food and Beverage

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (INTRD) has also identified food and beverage manufacturing as a strategic sector, and has a sector specialist on staff. The sector specialist works closely with industry, economic development groups, the federal and provincial governments to develop and implement strategies that support the growth and diversification of this sector.

Ms. Deborah Guillemette
Sector Development Specialist - Food and Beverage
Department of Innovation Trade and Rural Development
2nd Floor, Viking Bldg.
136 Crosbie Road
P.O. Box 8700
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 4J6
Telephone: 709-729-1943
E-mail: DGUILLEMETTE@gov.nl.ca
Web site: http://www.intrd.gov.nl.ca/intrd/

7.   Where can I find a profile of the food and beverage industry?

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(From: A Secondary Food Processing Investment Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador,  March 2000)

There are three main components in the Newfoundland and Labrador food processing industry:

• agricultural products - food, beverage and other edible products from commodities grown or reared on land based agricultural enterprises or in the wild
• seafood products - foods and other edible products from the seacoast and inland fisheries, as well as from aquaculture operations, and
• manufactured foods - food, beverage and other products not containing agrifood or seafood raw materials.

Manufacturing, or secondary processing, entails transforming agricultural and seafood commodities through cooking; the addition of extra ingredients; or some other form of enhancement which generally increases the value and marketability of the product.

Newfoundland and Labrador companies are generally small in size - primarily because of small, rural domestic markets which means:

• there are few economies of scale
• no extensive capital is tied up, and
• a reliance on niche marketing rather than generic marketing opportunities.

(From NL Department of Natural Resources, May 2006)

The food and beverage manufacturing industry, excluding sea-foods, grew 3% in 2005 to a record high $398.3 million dollars. Furthermore, this industry has grown 40% since 2000.

Average monthly employment in food and beverage manufacturing declined 1% in 2005 to 1,639 persons. Peak employment occurred in September at 1,749 persons. However, this was 1% below the peak period in 2004.

There are over 140 secondary food processors in Newfoundland and Labrador

Health Canada -  Food Value Chain Bureau
This site contains information on food trends (see list below), plus reports relevant to food processors.

• Canadian Consumers
• Canadian Food Trends to 2020
• What's Hot and What's Not in the Canadian Food Market 2005

8.  Where can I find business statistics?

Statistics for Business Planning
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre (CNLBSC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) partnered to develop an online guide called Statistics for Business Planning. The guide links you to key sources for business statistics. It also provides a description of each source plus tips and instructions on using each source. Types of statistics included are:

• Industry Classifications - find the statistical industry classification number for your business
• Manufacturing Statistics  - obtain a wide range of statistics on manufacturing industries in Canada
• Small Business Profiles - determine how the average company in your specific industry is performing
• Industry Bench Marking - compare your estimates for sales and expenses to other companies in the industry
• Imports and Exports - track how much of your goods or services are currently imported and exported
• Household Spending - look at the how much Canadians are spending on goods and services
• The Competition - find out who your competitors are and where they are located
• Population Projection - Newfoundland and Labrador - see what changes are anticipated in population for Newfoundland and Labrador
• Population Projections - Canada - see what changes are anticipated in population for Canada
• Community Profiles - obtain demographic, education, income and household statistics by community
• Labour Supply / Costs - obtain the labour rates and estimated availability of labour by occupational group.

There are additional statistics in this guide, under the question: Where can I find a profile of the food and beverage industry? Other statistics may be available from the Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre , as we have an extensive business library which includes publications specific to food and beverage processing.

9.  Are there industry associations I can join and what membership benefits do they offer?

Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors
CCGD members account for more than 80% of all the groceries distributed in Canada, and include retail and wholesale operations of all sizes; foodservice distributors; and allied members that provide products and support services to the rest of the industry. CCGD's mission is to advance and promote the economic well-being of members, helping them deliver the best possible value to Canadian consumers.

Canadian Federation Independent Grocers
The Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG) is a non-profit trade association founded in 1962 with the purpose of furthering the unique interests of Canada's independently owned and franchised supermarkets. CFIG provides the following services:

• Retail Member Services
• Associate Member Services
• Government & Industry Relations
• Grocery Industry Events

Canadian Health Food Association
The Canadian Health Food Association is the only national trade association representing manufacturers, distributors and retailers of natural health products.

Food and Consumer Products Manufacturers of Canada
FCPMC is the industry association representing over 165 Canadian operated member companies that manufacture and market an array of food and consumer products that are integral to daily life at home, work and leisure. These companies provide Canadians with safe, nutritious and high quality products sold through retail grocery, drug, convenience, mass merchandise and foodservice distribution channels. The mission of the FCPMC is to enhance the growth and competitiveness of the food and consumer products manufacturing industry.

Food Beverage Canada
Food Beverage Canada Association is committed to the development of export strategies and programs that will strengthen and increase its members' share of global food and beverage markets. The Association also offers web site opportunities through a site called Marketplace which generates approximately 15,000 hits a month.

Food Value Chain Bureau

The Food Value Chain Bureau is part of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.  On its web site, there is a list of industry associations, including some that represent specific food/beverage sub-sectors, such as:

• Baking Association of Canada
• Canadian Snack Food Association
• Brewers Association of Canada
• Tea  Association of Canada
• etc.

Food Technology Centre(FTC)
The FTC is a technology transfer and development facility established to provide technical service support, primarily to the agri-food and seafood processing sectors of PEI and Atlantic Canada. Their Atlantic Natural Products Development Initiative will focus on research and development (R&D) projects designed to tap into a growing global market for natural products, by developing a new generation of products derived from Atlantic bio-resources.

Local Business Organizations
Many communities have business organizations which organize information sessions and networking opportunities for members. Some of these are listed below. You can also check the yellow pages of your telephone directory under either Business & Trade Organizations or Associations :

• Boards of Trade or Chambers of Commerce (check your telephone directory)
• NL Employers' Council
• Better Business Bureau of NL
• Canadian Federation of Independent Business

10.  Where can I find books, trade magazines and local sector studies?

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre
The following books, magazines and local sector studies relevant to the food and beverage industry are a sample of the type of material available at the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre. We offer a free Books By Mail Service and an online library catalog.

Magazines

au courant

Bakers Journal Magazine

Beverage World

Bottled Water Reporter

Food in Canada

Foodnews
 
Foodservice & Hospitality

Nutraceuticals World

Books

US food labelling : 2006
CD # 27 BOTV

Canadian nutrition labelling : 2006
CD # 28 BOTW

Canada food stats
CD-ROM # 24 BNQZ

Natural health products Canada 2006 : retail products, regulatory, manufacturing, raw materials and services
REF HF 5030 N37 2006

The 2005 beverage marketing directory
REF HF 5030 B48 2005

Traceability resource directory : Atlantic Canada
REF TP 370 A74 2004

Fruit and vegetable production
HA 741 F77 2004

Food statistics : 2003
HA 741 S72 2004

Supply chain food product recall manual
REF HF 5415 .9 A47 2003

Food expenditure in Canada : 2001
HA 741 F351 2003

The Canadian fruit and vegetable canning, pickling and drying industry : sub-sector profile
HF 1416 .C3 A47 2002

The Canadian distillery industry : sub-sector profile
HF 1416 .C3 A574 2002

Profile of the Newfoundland and Atlantic consumers : demographic and economic situation and food buying patterns
HA 741 C36 200?

The Canadian snack food industry : sub-sector profile
HF 1416 .C3 A47 2000

Food process handbook for the Newfoundland area
Call number: TP 373 F66 1998

A Guide To Atlantic Canadian Agri-Food, Seafood and Beverage Products (pdf file)
(Note: pdf file is 362 pages, may take a few minutes to load)
Hard copy is available through the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre
Call number: S 493 .C3 A37 2002

A complete course in canning and related processes
Call number: TP 371 .2 C652 1996 V.1-3

Sector Studies
The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre maintains a database of local sector studies. Below is a list of some of the studies available on the food and beverage industry. For a complete list of studies visit the Sector Studies Inventory (SSI)  web site.

• A secondary food processing investment strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador
• Food processing opportunities study
• Secondary processing and market development for the Newfoundland and Labrador scallop fishery
• Smoked fish production technology for the food processing industry
  

11.  Are there trade shows I can attend?

CNLBSC - Events Calendar
Our Centre maintains an Events Calendar with an extensive listing of local trade shows and business events. Our Events Calendar is also interactive, allowing you to add your own events!

The following is a list of some provincial, national and/or international trade shows (in chronological order):

Canadian Gift & Tableware Association Gift Show

Ethnic & Specialty Food Expo

Grocery Innovations Canada

Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA)
http://www.ats.agr.gc.ca/plma/

Outgoing Market Development Mission - Food Hotel China 2006

SIAL Montréal
http://www.sialmontreal.com/home.ch2

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters - Newfoundland and Labrador Division (CME-NL)

ANUGA
http://www.anuga.com

Agri-Food Trade Service -  Trade Events
Selected Upcoming Food Trade Shows (2006) - This document provides brief descriptions of shows occurring worldwide:

• Africa and the Middle East
• Asia
• Canada
• Europe
• Latin America and the Caribbean
• Untied States.

Ministry of Agriculture and Food - Government of Ontario
This site lists many key national food and beverage related events, such as: 

• Canadian Bottled Water Convention and Trade Show
• Canadian Health Food Association Expo East
• Canadian Coffee & Tea Expo
• HostEx 2006 - Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association Trade Show
• Pet Food Association of Canada's Annual Conference
• Canadian/International Food & Beverage Show
• PACex International 2007.

12.  Where can I get training?

College of the North Atlantic (CONA)
The College has 2 programs related to the food industry:

• Commercial Baking
• Commercial Cooking
• Food Service and Nutrition Management

Marine Institute (MUN)
The Institute has 4 programs related to the food industry:

• Food Safety
• Food Technology
• Quality Assurance (seafood)
• Seafood Processing

Newfoundland and Labrador WorkinfoNet (NLWIN)
Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador can call toll free 1-800-563-6600 (729-6600 in St. John's local calling area) to obtain career and work search information. The Web site offers the latest in provincial career and employment information and offers links to national and international resources. There are also Career Information Resource Centres throughout the Province.

13.  How can I find suppliers?

There are a variety of ways to find sources of supply for the raw materials you require for food and beverage processing. You can network with other processors, either on an individual basis, or by joining a local group, or by taking part in online discussion groups featured on some food/beverage-related web sites.

You can visit the nearest Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Network site and use the multitude of directories available that list manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers. Some of these directories are in print format, but many are also available online. Some are Buyer's Guides that come as part of a magazine subscription (see list below).

You may find suppliers by attending trade shows. For example, some companies supplying packaging materials and display systems attend the various food-related trade shows. Most trade shows have web sites - check online to see if suppliers will be on hand.

Once you have a list of potential suppliers, you need to contact each to request catalogs and price lists (some may have online catalogs), and get specific information on minimum orders, shipping options and charges, etc. Suppliers are more cooperative and provide more information if they know you are an established business person with a good credit rating, and are offering them a 'significant sale'. In turn, you should ensure that your potential supplier is reputable by obtaining background information on the company and by talking with other manufacturers who have had dealings with the supplier.

The following directories are available online, or through the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Network.

Local Suppliers

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) - Newfoundland and Labrador Division
For local suppliers of products manufactured in this province, contact CME's Newfoundland and Labrador Division. CME staff may be able to connect you with one of their members, or you can search their membership directory online.

Telephone Directories

Whether using paper or online versions of the yellow pages, check for suppliers of craft-related products and services under such headings as:

• Bakers' equipment
• Bakers' supplies
• Food brokers
• Food processing equipment, services & supplies
• Food service equipment
• Packaging materials
• Restaurant equipment & supplies
• Auctioneers (used equipment)

Buyer's Guides/Magazine Subscriptions

Bakers Journal Magazine

Food in Canada 

Foodservice & Hospitality

Nutraceuticals World

General Business Directories (not specific to the food and beverage industry)

• Reference Canada : Canadian Businesses (available at the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre)
• Canadian Trade Index
• Frasers Canadian Trade Directory
• Canadian Company Capabilities
• Thomas Register   

14.  Where can I find information about exporting my products?

Canada/Newfoundland & Labrador Business Service Centre and Team Canada Inc
Team Canada Inc (TCI) is a partnership of federal, provincial and territorial governments helping Canadian companies succeed in world markets. Your Team Canada contact in this province is the Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre. The Centre's staff respond to Team Canada information requests and refer clients to appropriate resources and agencies, depending upon the export readiness of the client. For more information on exporting, visit the Centre's Web site.

Trade Team Newfoundland & Labrador
The CNLBSC is also part of Trade Team Newfoundland and Labrador (TTNL), one of 11 regional teams across Canada. TTNL's mission is to provide services to businesses to help them achieve success in global markets. There are four key areas of focus:

• export preparedness
• diversifying export markets
• strengthened performance, and
• investment attraction.

The services offered by the Trade Team Newfoundland and Labrador partners include export readiness assessment, export counselling, export preparation and training, information on trade fairs and missions, introduction to foreign buyers visiting Newfoundland and Labrador, contacts in international markets, worldwide leads on international business opportunities, liaising with Canadian embassies, export financing and insurance and market information and intelligence.

Agri-Food Trade Service
Your source for agricultural, fish and seafood export information, this web site provides centralized access to market information, trade counselling and export support activities, which will take the exporter from initial enquiry to foreign market.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Small and medium-sized enterprise information centre
This section of the CBSA's web site is tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) but is useful for all importers and exporters. It contains information on:

• Exporting - A Step-by-Step Guide
• Customs Tariff
• Information seminars
• Border Information Service (BIS).

15. Where can I find information about pet food manufacturing and processing?

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Canada

Pet Food Association of Canada (PFAC)
The mission of the Pet Food Association of Canada is to instill in the consumer confidence about the wholesomeness and quality of commercially-prepared pet foods through the development and promotion of the highest standards in pet food manufacturing. The PFAC is a trade association representing:

• manufacturers of pet foods sold in Canada
• manufacturers of Canadian-made pet food sold in Canada and for export.

Members of the Pet Food Association of Canada follow The Manufacturing Guidelines for the Canadian Pet Food Industry.

Guide for the Labelling and Advertising of Pet Foods
In April 1998, the Competition Bureau of Industry Canada, organized a working group consisting of Canadian pet food manufacturers and importers, federal government officials, and consumer representatives, to address concerns from the public about the lack of uniformity and monitoring of pet food labelling. The goal of this working group was to create a guide that would provide a voluntary code of conduct setting out best practices for industry in the labelling and advertising of pet foods, as well as a benchmark for enforcement purposes by the Competition Bureau. This resulting Guide applies to all claims concerning pet food products included in labelling, advertising, promotional materials and all other forms of marketing in connection with the sale of these products.

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
The CVMA's Pet Food Certification Program ensures that manufacturers consistently meet established nutritional standards in order to earn the CVMA certification. The certification program is completely independent from any pet food maker or retailer.

Pet Food : Import Procedures
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for ensuring that pet food products imported into Canada are disease free. Types of products include:

• Unbasted pet chews
• Basted pet chews
• Dried pig ears and Cow Hooves
• Prepared pet food.

United States

Pet Food Institute
Since 1958, the PFI has served as the voice of the US pet food industry, an industry that is committed to providing consumers and their pets with products that meet the complex nutritional requirements of our companion animals. PFI now represents the manufacturers of 95 percent of the total dog and cat food tonnage produced in the United States.

US Food and Drug Administration - Interpreting Pet Food Labels
In the United States, pet food labeling is regulated at two levels. The Federal regulations, enforced by the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), establish standards applicable for all animal feeds: proper identification of product, net quantity statement, manufacturer's address, and proper listing of ingredients. Some States also enforce their own labeling regulations. Many of these have adopted the model pet food regulations established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These regulations are more specific in nature, covering aspects of labeling such as the product name, the guaranteed analysis, the nutritional adequacy statement, feeding directions, and calorie statements.

Association of American Feed Control Officials
A basic goal of AAFCO is to provide a mechanism for developing and implementing uniform and equitable laws, regulations, standards and enforcement policies for regulating the manufacture, distribution and sale of animal feeds; resulting in safe, effective, and useful feeds. The Association thereby promotes new ideas and innovative procedures and urges their adoption by member agencies, for uniformity.

United Kingdom

Pet Food Manufacturers Association
The PFMA was formed in 1970 as a trade association which represents approximately 95% of the UK pet food manufacturing industry and comprises 53 member companies.

16. Which government departments or agencies do I need to contact?

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For information on general business regulations, such as incorporation, taxation, labour standards, insurance, and intellectual property, see our  Business Start-Up Info-Guide .

Town or City Council Office
Municipal governments have varying requirements regarding the operation of businesses within their town/city boundaries.  Your local municipality should be consulted on such matters as:

• zoning regulations
• construction or renovation of buildings
• operation of a homebased business
• business taxation.

Government Service Centres
The GSC processes permits, licences, approvals and conducts inspections and investigations on behalf of a number of line departments. Whether you have a home based operation or a separate manufacturing facility, you should contact the Centre nearest you to ask what regulations may apply. Listed below are some of the services offered by the Government Service Centre:

• Approval of Highway Signage
• Building Accessibility Approval/Exemption for Public Buildings
• Commercial and private Septic System Approvals and Authorizations
• Commercial Building Plan Approvals
• Electrical Permits and Inspections
• Elevator Inspections and Approvals
• Food Establishment Licensing
• Fuel Storage and Handling Approvals
• Liquor Licensing
• Meat Inspections
• Propane System Licensing and Inspections
• Waste Management System Approvals
• Water Supply Testing

GSC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Most food and beverage manufacturers will need to consult with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), as the CFIA is responsible for administering and enforcing the following Acts:

• Canada Agricultural Products Act (dairy, eggs, fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, livestock, poultry,
• maple products, and processed products regulations)
• Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act (as it relates to food)
• Fertilizers Act
• Fish Inspection Act
• Food and Drugs Act (as it relates to food)
• Meat Inspection Act
• Plant Breeders' Rights Act
• Seeds Act.

Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
59 Camelot Drive
P.O. Box 5667
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1C 5X1
Telephone: 709-772-5519
Fax: 709-772-5100
Toll-free (information): 1-800-442-2342
Web site: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/toce.shtml

Contact

Food Safety Enhancement Program (HACCP)
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (see above) is also responsible for the food safety training. Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) represents a new way of approaching the management of chemical, physical and biological hazards which affect food production. It shifts the focus away from costly, and many times inconclusive, end-product testing to more rigorous and scientific management of food processing activities. Critical points in production of a food product are identified and monitored. HACCP systems are unique for each establishment and specific food product.

Canada is a world leader in the development of prerequisite programs, HACCP systems (and generic models) and the implementation in food establishments. This Web site includes:

• Implementation Manual
• HACCP Curriculum Guidelines
• HACCP Generic Models
• List of HACCP Recognized Establishments
• Mandatory HACCP Implementation in All Canadian Establishments Registered under the Meat Inspection Act.

Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture -  Fisheries - Licencing
Fish processing plants must be licensed for secondary processing.

Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Petten Building
30 Strawberry Marsh Road
P.O. Box 8700
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 4J6
Telephone: 709-729-3723
E-mail:  
Web site: http://www.gov.nl.ca/fishaq/licensing/licencing.stm

Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation
The NLC operates in partnership with the provincial Government Services Centre and enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the Acts and Regulations pertaining to the sale, transportation and distribution of beverage alcohol within the province. These Acts and Regulations include:

• the Liquor Corporation Act
• the Liquor Control Act, and
• Liquor Licensing Regulations

Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation
90 Kemount Road
P.O. Box 8750, Station A
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1B 3V1
Telephone: 709-724-1100
Fax: 709-754-0321
E-mail: info@nfliquor.com
Web site: http://www.nfliquor.com/about/default.asp

17.  What information do I need to put on my labels?

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Canadian Food Inspection Agency

• Guide to Food Labelling and Advertising
• Nutrition Labelling, Nutrition Claims and Health Claims
• Nutrition Labelling Toolkit

NOTE:  Nutrition labelling became mandatory for most prepackaged foods on December 12, 2005. For foods produced by small manufacturers (with total annual sales of less than one million dollars for the 12-month period prior to December 12, 2002), the regulations come into force on December 12, 2007.

Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
59 Camelot Drive
P.O. Box 5667
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador  A1C 5X1
Telephone: 709-772-5519
Fax: 709-772-5100
Toll-free (information): 1-800-442-2342
Web site: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/toce.shtml

Contact

Health Canada
The new regulations on nutrition labelling are applicable to almost all prepackaged foods.  This ensures that the Nutrition Facts table has a consistent "look", and is easy to find and read. To help you better understand the new food label, Health Canada created a tool called the Interactive Nutrition Label.

Canadian Exporters' Guide to Food Labelling & Packaging Requirements of the European Union
After the US, the EU is the world's largest market for agri-food products. This guide is intended to provide detailed and practical information on EU legislation governing the sale and marketing of packaged foodstuffs within the EU.

18.  How do I get a bar code?

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GS1 Canada  (formerly the Electronic Commerce Council of Canada)
GS1 Canada is a not-for-profit organization that promotes and maintains global standards for the identification of goods, locations, and related e-commerce communication, such as bar code issuance and maintenance. GS1 Canada is the only authorized source for globally unique company prefixes in Canada.

19.  How do I prepare before approaching lenders?

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Lending - The Basic Criteria
A document that covers the factors lenders consider when providing financing to entrepreneurs. It also contains tips on how to present your business idea to potential lenders.

Dealing With Your Banker & Other Lenders
A document that offers techniques for building good relationships with bankers and other lenders.

20.  What government financing is available to me?

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Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help food and beverage manufacturers focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
-  Agri-Food Trade Service (ATS)

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
- counselling service
-  Business Development Program

ACOA - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Business Development Bank of Canada
- consulting service
-  Co-Vision - Start-up Financing Solution
-  Growth Capital for Aboriginal Business

BDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment (HRLE)
- Graduate Employment Program
- Linkages
- NL Works
- Student Work and Service Program(SWASP)
- Student Employment Program
- Seasonal Employment Program

HRLE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (INTRD)
- business counselling
- Commercialization Program
- Innovation Enhancement Program
- Small and Medium Enterprise Fund
- Small Business and Market Development Program

INTRD - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

National Research Council
-  NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP)

21.  What other agencies offer financing?

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Please note that this alphabetical list is provided to help food and beverage manufacturers focus on a few relevant programs rather than have to review an exhaustive list of programs available to entrepreneurs. The Canada/Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre has no role in determining who will receive assistance under any of these programs.

Banks and Credit Unions
All major banks and credit unions offer small business loans and have a wealth of business information available on their Web sites. Listed below are links to the major financial institutions operating in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• BMO - Business Banking
• CIBC - Business Banking
• HSBC - Business Banking
• NL Credit Union - Business Banking
• RBC - Business Banking
• Scotiabank - Business Banking
• TD Commercial Banking

Canadian Youth Business Foundation
-  CYBF Loan Program

Community Business Development Corporations
- Financial Assistance Program
- Self Employment Benefits Program
- SEED Capital Program
- business counselling
- other programs (e.g. bridge financing; micro loans up to $5,000; training; technical assistance; business plans; financial planning and counselling; export readiness and supplier development)

CBDC - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE)
- services to women entrepreneurs at all stages of business development
- Women in Business Initiative (in conjunction with ACOA)

NLOWE - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador

Ulnooweg Development Group Inc.
- Ulnooweg Loan
- Aboriginal Business Development Loan
- ABC Aboriginal Youth Business Loan

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this document is of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute advice for any specific fact situation. Users concerned about the reliability of the information should consult directly with the source, or seek legal counsel.

Links Policy
Some of the hypertext links lead to non-federal government sites which are not subject to the Official Languages Act and the material is available in one language only.