The equivalence of a novel trait within a particular plant species, in terms of its specific use and safety to the environment and human health, to those in that same species, that are in use and generally considered as safe in Canada, based on valid scientific rationale (Canadian Food Inspection Agency, October 29, 2004 [online]).
The phrase substantial equivalence is given to a relatively new concept used in the regulation of new foods, especially genetically modified foods, also called [recombinant DNA] (rDNA) derived foods (hereafter GM foods).