Sampling and testing protocol highlights

• The protocol involves testing and sampling procedures at various points in the grain handling system.
  • Producer Deliveries: Canadian grain companies will take samples of producer flaxseed deliveries and retain samples for a period of no less than 6 months. The Canadian Grain Commission is not involved in actual sampling or testing at this stage of the protocol.
  • Railcars: For each 5 railcars destined to port, grain companies will prepare a composite sample, have that sample tested at a private laboratory, and divert any railcars testing positive from supply destined to the European Union. The Canadian Grain Commission is not involved in actual sampling or testing at this stage of the protocol.
  • Vessel holds: The Canadian Grain Commission will officially sample all vessels destined to the European Union and test for the presence of FP967. Sampling and testing will be done for each hold of the vessel separately.
• The Canadian Grain Commission will maintain a list of “Laboratories Approved for Testing Flaxseed Shipments to the European Union”which may be used by grain companies for railcar testing.
• The Canadian Grain Commission will report regularly to the European Commission on its investigation into the presence of FP967 in the Canadian flaxseed supply.