Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs)
A Maximum Residue Limit is a level of residue that could safely remain in the tissue or food product derived from a food-producing animal that has been treated with a veterinary drug. This residue is considered to pose no adverse health effects if ingested daily by humans over a lifetime.
MRLs are established only after Health Canada's Veterinary Drugs Directorate has conducted extensive reviews of data submitted by manufacturers and has determined that foods containing these veterinary drug residues up to the established levels are safe for human consumption. MRLs are established by using a scientific, multi-step, health risk assessment process that is internationally recognized. Prior to the finalization of MRLs, a consultation process is conducted with stakeholders and the public.
MRLs for veterinary drugs are added to the "List of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for Veterinary Drugs in Foods" through a marketing authorization and Incorporation by Reference. In March 2025, the marketing authorization transitioned to a ministerial order made under subsection 30.05(1) of the Food and Drugs Act.
The current version of the MRLs is available on the List of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for Veterinary Drugs in Foods. The List includes the following information: Column I (Veterinary Drug); Column II (Name of the Substance for Drug Analysis Purposes); Column III (Foods); and Column IV (Maximum Residue Limits p.p.m.). Note that the MRLs listed in Column IV are applicable to food derived from all production classes of species indicated in Column III, unless otherwise specified. For example, MRLs listed for edible tissues of "cattle" apply to tissues of adult cattle, as well as calves. MRLs for veterinary drugs listed for edible tissues of "cattle, other than calves to be processed for veal" are not applicable to tissues of veal calves. For that reason, calves that have been administered these drugs should not be processed for veal.
Amendments to the List of MRLs for Veterinary Drugs in Foods
Upon completion of the scientific assessment of a Veterinary New Drug Submission, or reassessment of a previously approved drug, Health Canada will notify the public of its intent to amend the List via a Proposal to Amend the List of MRLs for Veterinary Drugs in Foods that will be posted on the Health Canada website for public consultation. Interested parties may provide comments on the proposal, and should new scientific or safety evidence be raised, amendments to the proposed values may be considered. After addressing the public comments, a Final Notice to Amend the List of MRLs for Veterinary Drugs in Foods will be posted on the Health Canada website and the proposed amendments will be formally incorporated to the List of MRLs for Veterinary Drugs in Foods.
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