CCIA — Traceability, tags and other resources

Importance of a traceability system

Simply put, traceability is the ability to follow an item  or a group of items – be it animal, plant, food products  or ingredient – from one point in the supply chain to another, either backwards or forwards. 

As a producer that purchases and applies approved Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) tags, you are the important first step in the Canadian livestock traceability system. Premises Identification numbers (PID) and the ability to track movement of livestock are the other important components of a successful traceability system.

Current Health of Animals Part XV regulations focus on Animal Identification; where all cattle must be tagged with an approved tag/indicator prior to moving from their current location or leaving their farm of origin. 

Proposed amendments to the regulations will be shifting to a more comprehensive movement tracking system that will be dependent on Premises Identification.

How do I get a PID number?

Each Canadian Province and Territory has specific guidelines for creating a premises identification number. Canadaid.ca has a section regarding premises registration in your province www.canadaid.ca/traceability/premises-identification/

What is the CLTS and how do I update my account?

Everyone who has ever purchased tags already has a Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) database account and it is housed at clts.canadaid.ca. Your retail tag dealer uploads your newly purchased tags into your CLTS account within 24 hours of their purchase. CCIA manages the CLTS database and provides tools and  information for data capture. 

CCIA is not government, we are non-profit, industry driven and here to help you navigate reporting and recording requirements.

New users to the CLTS database can call the CCIA call centre at (1-877-909-2333) and a Client Support Representative (CSR) will be happy to get you started  with a username for you.

Download the CLTS MOBO APP to have the CLTS  database available on your mobile device, for fast and convenient data uploads. 

Buy tags online with the CCIA webstore

The CCIA Webstore offers all approved tags and matching applicators with a full selection at the most competitive price. Order online or by phone and you will receive your tags in the mail 5-7 business days later!

Reward programs

A limited time rewards program is offered for those setting up new webstore accounts and those adding/ updating contact information and PID numbers on their existing accounts. A variety of prizes and rebates are available. For more information, or to update or create an account, call CCIA at 1-877-909-2333.

What resources does CCIA have?

CCIA has an online CLTS Resource Centre (CRC) that is new and improved. The new CRC is your “how to” destination for everything CLTS. At support.canadaid.ca you’ll find comprehensive guides for how to submit events, frequently asked questions and more.

To learn more about what we do visit www.canadaid.ca; to learn more about the CLTS visit support.canadaid.ca and login to your account at clts.canadaid.ca. Try out our new online chat feature, available during business hours or email info@canadaid.ca or call toll free at 1-877-909-2333.

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This article was first published in the May 2021 edition of ABP Magazine. Stay tuned to ABP Daily to see more content from the magazine.

Feature photo: @prairierosephoto, @flyingheartmeats