CFIA stops issuing import permits for certain plant “pests” being used as feed, bait or pets

Ottawa, June 17, 2010: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is no longer issuing or amending import permits for any live insect that is a "pest" as defined by the Plant Protection Act. This policy applies to insects which are plant pests and are intended for:

•use as feed or bait,
•use as a pet, or
•any other similar or related use.

Any permits that have already been issued will remain in effect until their expiry date. No extensions or amendments will be given.

This policy applies to any living insect that is a plant pest, in any stage of its life cycle (for instance, egg, pupa, larva).

There has been no change in policy for certain species of insects which are allowed into Canada without a permit, for instance house crickets (Acheta domesticus) and yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) raised in and imported directly from the continental United States. For a complete listing of all living insects and other organisms, such as tarantulas, which do not require a plant protection import permit, refer to the following webpage:

•Organisms that do not require a plant protection permit to import