Relevance to the consumer of the application of the precautionary principle to food safety in Canada

Author

Delphine Nakache, Marie-France Huot

Organization

Option consommateurs

Published

2003

Summary

The precautionary principle (PP) first appeared in Germany in the 1970s and was introduced onto the international scene in the early 1980s. Though at first limited to an environmental policy context, its scope of application was considerably broadened subsequently. With the occurrence of major food safety crises in Europe, the PP rapidly rose to prominence on the political agenda and was enshrined in food and health legislation. The public tends to support it strongly, so much so that its use has, in some circumstances, become a matter of rote. Ignored by some, hallowed by others, it has been and continues to be a highly contentious principle that crys tallizes profound differences of focus on the international scene. But beyond conflicts over its definition and conceptual content, real convictions may serve as a guide. For the saying, “when in doubt, leave it out,” the PP substitutes the imperative “when in doubt, take every possible step to optimize action.” Thus, the PP is a principle of action rather than inaction; it pertains when states and governments wish to prevent certain risks despite the absence of irrefutable scientific evidence as to the existence of a proven causal link to harm. Furthermore, the PP, which is equivalent to the statement that safety measures may be necessary before obtaining specific proof of harm, constitutes active risk management, not merely surrender to uncertainty. It introduces a dynamic that can break the impasse through the development of new knowledge. Even if the PP is still poorly defined on the international scene, all evidence suggests that Canada would do well to adopt it formally by means of a strictly operational process. Once the conditions of application of the PP are clearly determined (proportional, non-discriminatory, transparent, consistent, provisional, and cost-effective decisions), a structured decision-making process based on detailed scientific data and other objective information should be implemented. The PP should be framed within a scientific process characterized by a three-phase risk analysis (risk assessment, risk management and risk communication).

This document is available in the following language(s):

Third-Party Information Liability Disclaimer

Some of the information on this Web page has been provided by external sources. The Government of Canada is not responsible for the accuracy, reliability or currency of the information supplied by external sources. Users wishing to rely upon this information should consult directly with the source of the information. Content provided by external sources is not subject to official languages, privacy and accessibility requirements.

English and French

OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database