Alberta Beef Producers objects to proposed traceability changes; announces intent to form traceability working group  

Following extensive producer engagement, including 15 Producer Meetings and a dedicated Town Hall, ABP delegates passed a resolution at the 2026 Annual General Meeting directing the creation of a traceability working group. ABP, alongside governments and other cattle organizations, will work to address deficiencies and producer confidence in the current model before further changes can be considered. 

Effective disease readiness and trade access require a traceability system that works in practice, not just in policy. It must be supported by proven technology, reflect the realities of cattle production, and limit undue costs or administrative burden. Without that foundation, the system will not achieve full producer participation and will not work as intended.    

The proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability), as advanced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), create significant challenges for beef producers and ABP cannot support them in their current form.   

Alberta Beef Producers fundamentally supports traceability and the safeguards it provides to our industry, including strengthening disease preparedness, protecting market access, and maintaining consumer confidence.  

ABP is grateful for the producer engagement from across the province. The participation and feedback ABP has received reflect a shared determination to get traceability right, and this working group will be a high priority for ABP going forward.  

View the official statement here

About Alberta Beef Producers 

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is a not-for-profit commission representing Alberta’s cattle producers. ABP’s work spans critical areas including research, production, communications, marketing, policy, advocacy, and stewardship. Run by producers for producers, ABP is dedicated to maintaining a sustainable, competitive beef industry for the benefit of beef producers in Alberta.