Private plasma company Grifols has paused plasma collection at its Canadian clinics, putting new attention on donor safety and federal oversight of Canada's plasma system.

The company operates multiple plasma collection centres across Canada. Its decision follows increased scrutiny after two donors died within a short period of plasma donations, although Health Canada has said it has not established a direct connection between the donation process and the deaths.

Health Canada inspections have nevertheless identified compliance concerns and deficiencies at Grifols facilities. Federal inspection information shows a January 2026 inspection at a Grifols site was rated non-compliant and included requirements involving staff training, donor records, quality assurance and operational oversight.

The temporary shutdown is significant because plasma is used to manufacture immunoglobulin medicines, which thousands of Canadians rely on for treatment.

Canadian Blood Services has said it continues working to increase domestic plasma collection to help meet rising demand for these lifesaving medicines.

Grifols says the pause is intended to allow cooperation with authorities and has disputed what it describes as unfounded attention surrounding the situation.

The development leaves Canada's healthcare sector watching two issues closely: protecting plasma donors while maintaining a reliable supply of plasma-derived medicines.

Further regulatory findings and the company's corrective actions will help determine when private plasma collection can resume.