Plants With Novel Traits

A plant with a novel trait (PNT) is a plant that contains a trait which is both new to the Canadian environment and has the potential to affect the specific use and safety of the plant with respect to the environment and human health. These traits can be introduced using biotechnology, mutagenesis, or conventional breeding techniques.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is responsible for regulating the environmental release of PNTs. This oversight is under the authority of the Plant Protection Act, Plant Protection Regulations, the  Seeds Act and Seed Regulations (Part V).

What information is available?

• How to Apply for Confined or Unconfined Environmental Release of a PNT in Canada
• How to Apply for Import of a PNT to Canada
• Low-level presence – Policy Model
• PNTs Which Are Under Review or Have Been Approved for Confined or Unconfined Release

Additional government and industry information

• Approvals for Genetically Modified Feeds
• Health Canada – Approvals for Genetically Modified Foods