Through a collaborative process, the CRSB developed, and maintains two standards that identify the indicators, goals and requirements for beef cattle production operations and beef processing facilities to be CRSB Certified. These standards form the backbone of the CRSB Certified program.
The standards define the key aspects of sustainability and are built around the CRSB’s five principles of beef sustainability – natural resources, people and the community, animal health and welfare, food, and efficiency and innovation. These principles are underpinned by the need for economic viability and resiliency across the beef supply chain.
The standards are deliberately written to be outcome-based, measurable, based on science and expert option, and address key concerns around the sustainability of beef production in Canada.
The ‘outcome-based’ approach means that the practices used to meet the individual indicators are what are evaluated, rather than prescribing specific ways to achieve them. This model allows for the diverse ways for program participants to demonstrate sustainable practices based on their individual operation, considering climate, region, resources, soil type, production style, facility design and operation, and more.
The standards include a three-level scoring system: Achievement, Innovation and Excellence. Certification requires meeting, at minimum, the “Achievement Level” on EVERY indicator. “Innovation” and “Excellence” levels are incorporated to foster continuous improvement over time, in keeping with sustainability being a journey, rather than an end-point to be reached.
The Production standard is used by all levels of cattle production - cow-calf, backgrounding, feedlot and dairy beef operations in Canada
The Processing Standards is for use by primary beef processing facilities in Canada.
In accordance with program requirements and international guidelines, we also provide the opportunity to request clarification or revisions to the standard(s). If you would like to request interpretation with any part of the standard, complete one of the forms below.
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