,South Africa has notified new draft regulations establishing detailed requirements for the grading, packing, and marking of canola (Brassica napus) intended for sale in the domestic market. The proposed measures are issued under the Agricultural Product Standards Act, 1990, and are aimed at strengthening quality control, standardisation, and transparency in the canola supply chain.
The draft regulations introduce a formal classification system for canola, defining minimum quality and safety parameters that must be met before the product may be marketed. Under the proposal, canola is categorised primarily as Class C, with Grade C1 specified as the applicable grade for domestic sale. The regulations clearly set out the quality attributes required for this grade, including limits for foreign matter, damaged seed, defective seed, moisture content, and other undesirable substances that could affect the quality, storability, or safety of the product.
In addition to grading standards, the proposal establishes packing requirements to ensure that canola is handled, packaged, and presented in a manner that preserves its integrity and prevents contamination. Packaging must be clean, suitable for agricultural products, and capable of protecting the contents during handling, transport, and storage.
The draft also introduces mandatory marking and labelling provisions, requiring that containers or packages of canola be clearly marked with specific information. This includes the product name, class and grade, and any other particulars necessary to ensure traceability and compliance with the regulations. These measures are intended to improve transparency in the market and enable inspectors, buyers, and other stakeholders to easily verify compliance.
The regulations further describe sampling, inspection, and compliance procedures, outlining how canola will be assessed against the prescribed standards. Official inspections may include physical examination and sampling to verify conformity with grading and quality requirements. Non-compliant products may be rejected or subject to corrective actions in line with enforcement powers under the Act.
Overall, the proposed regulations aim to harmonise quality standards for canola, protect buyers and processors, support fair trade practices, and enhance confidence in the South African canola market. Stakeholders are invited to review and comment on the draft regulations during the consultation period before they are finalised and formally adopted.
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