Decoding Meat and Seafood Labels: What You Need to Know

Labels and certifications have become essential tools to guide consumers in their choices, guaranteeing quality, traceability, and adherence to high standards. Whether it’s meat, fish, or seafood, each label tells a story—one of origin, farming or fishing conditions, and production standards. Let’s dive into the world of food labels specific to Canada and Quebec to better understand their importance and what they ensure.

Certifications for Meat and Seafood

For Meats

Canada AAA, AA, and A: Quality Grades

What is it?
Canada's meat grading system is among the most rigorous in the world. The AAA, AA, and A grades primarily evaluate marbling, color, and texture.

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Grading Criteria:

• AAA: Generous and uniform marbling, perfect for tender and juicy steaks or roasts. This is the most popular grade for consumers seeking high quality.
• AA: Moderate marbling, ideal for lightly grilled dishes or stews.
• A: Minimal marbling, often used for simpler preparations or recipes requiring marination.

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Certified Angus Beef (CAB)

What is it?
Created in 1978, this certification is internationally recognized and widely respected in Canada. It specifically applies to beef from Angus cattle and adheres to much stricter standards compared to typical beef classifications.

How is it earned?
Only beef meeting 10 stringent criteria can receive this certification. These are verified by trained inspectors to ensure consistent quality.

Quality Criteria:

• Moderate to high marbling for optimal tenderness.
• Carcasses weighing less than 1,100 pounds and aged under 30 months for superior texture and tenderness.
• Perfectly finished cuts with no excess fat or visible defects.

Learn more about the 10 criteria on the Certified Angus Beef website, and explore our CAB-certified beef options at East Angus Grocery.

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Canadian Bison Meat

What makes it unique?
Bison is raised without growth hormones or antibiotics, setting it apart from other red meats. Its farming practices emphasize animal welfare and sustainable pasture management.

Certification:
While there isn’t a singular bison certification, products labeled "Canadian Bison" or "Product of Canada" ensure local farming practices that comply with national regulations. These labels guarantee complete traceability.

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For Seafood & other

Ocean Wise

What is it?
Ocean Wise is a Canadian independent program designed to identify seafood from sustainable and responsible sources. This label helps consumers make informed choices to protect marine ecosystems.

Certification Criteria:

• Fishing or aquaculture practices that do not negatively impact ecosystems.
• Compliance with quotas and species reproduction cycles.
• Capture techniques that minimize bycatch (unintended species).

Where to find it?
At East Angus Grocery, you’ll find the Ocean Wise label on many of our fish and seafood products. This label is also widely recognized in restaurants committed to offering sustainable options.

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I.Q.F. (Individually Quick Frozen)

What is it?
A rapid freezing method used to preserve the freshness of seafood. Each piece is frozen individually, ensuring optimal texture and flavor.

Advantages:

• Waste reduction: You can thaw only what you need.
• Preserved freshness: Ideal for seafood like shrimp, scallops, or fish fillets.

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Canada Organic

What is it?
This certification ensures products meet Canada’s strict organic farming standards.

Criteria:

• Prohibits GMOs, chemical pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
• Practices that promote biodiversity and soil health.

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Why Are These Labels Important?

Traceability and Transparency
Labels provide clear information about where your products come from and how they were raised or harvested.

Superior Quality
Certifications like Certified Angus Beef or MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) ensure products meet high standards for quality and flavor.

Ethical Commitment
Labels like Ocean Wise and Canada Organic promote practices that respect the environment and animal welfare.

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Conclusion

Choosing labeled products means investing in quality, sustainability, and transparency. At East Angus Grocery, we are committed to offering you a selection of meats, fish, and seafood that meet the highest standards. Take the time to explore these labels and certifications—they’re your guarantee of a delicious and responsible meal.

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Did You Know?
Canada was one of the first countries to implement a rigorous meat grading system in 1927. Today, this system sets a global benchmark for quality standards.