The trace-back process, begun as soon as calves arrive at the farm, is rigorously pursued through every step in the processing plant. Grain-fed veal is slaughtered and processed by plants which have signed an agreement obliging them to conform to certain standards outlined in the agreement before they can use the brand name. These businesses must conform to identification and trace-back standards, allowing any product processed to be traced directly back to the producer. This ensures both the origin and the quality of the final product and completely guarantees the brand "Quebec Certified Grain-fed Veal".
Inspection and classification
The standards entrenched in the certification and trace-back process are added to those of Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada in regards to the inspection and health of food. Inspectors are present in the processing plants to ensure that the established standards are rigorously respected.
- All calves are inspected before and after slaughter.
- If a calf has not attained the minimum weight prescribed by the certification standards, it is separately stamped and classified.
- Veal is categorized by colour (1, 2, 3, 4) and by conformation (A,B,C). In order to become Quebec Certified Grain-fed Veal, the meat must be classified as either A1 or A2.
