September 11, 2024
Executive Director
Substance Prioritization, Assessment and Coordination Division,
Department of the Environment,
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H3
via Email: substances@ec.gc.ca
RE: Canada Gazette, Part I: Vol. 158, No. 28 – July 13, 2024 Publication of the Updated Draft State of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Report (subsection 77(1) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999)
To whom it concerns:
Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on the Updated Draft State of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Report. The perspective of the Canadian Beverage Association (CBA) is provided perspective below.
Who we are
The Canadian Beverage Association (CBA) is the national industry association for the Canadian non-alcoholic beverage sector. Together, the association represents over 60 brands of non-alcoholic refreshment beverages consumed in Canada and the companies that manufacture and distribute them. CBA members’ facilities are located in every region of the country. The beverage industry sector directly and indirectly employs over 56,000 Canadians and contributes over $5 billion to the Canadian economy.
CBA comments regarding this report
The safety of beverages available in Canada is of the highest importance for the Canadian Beverage Association and its members. We urge all involved in science-based policy making to follow principles of risk assessment and analysis instead of relying on hazard identification for determination of action. We believe in data-driven, science-based decision making and would welcome further discussion as appropriate. CBA continues to follow this issue closely and would be happy to discuss any impact of PFAS and potential management of these substances in the beverage industry.
Sincerely,
Mark Dekker
Sr Director, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs
Canadian Beverage Association