If you plan to manufacture, import, or sell a natural health product (NHP) in Canada, you need to understand the Licensed Natural Health Products Database (LNHPD). This official database lists every NHP that has been approved for sale with a Natural Product Number (NPN).
Getting your product licensed and listed in the LNHPD is a key step toward compliance. It provides proof that your product has been reviewed by Health Canada for safety, quality, and effectiveness.
Skipping this process or submitting incomplete information can lead to delays, refusals, or regulatory actions. But how do you submit your product to the database? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the LNHPD and Why Does it Matter?
The Licensed Natural Health Products Database (LNHPD) is managed by Health Canada’s Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD). Moreover, it plays a central role in ensuring that NHPs sold in Canada are safe, effective, and of high quality.
In addition, it is updated daily and can be searched by product name, NPN, ingredients, dosage form, licence holder, or licensing date. Each listing also contains details such as medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients, recommended uses, warnings, and risk information. As a result, businesses and consumers alike can access it directly on Health Canada’s website.
For businesses, being included in the LNHPD demonstrates compliance with Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Regulations. At the same time, for consumers, it is a trusted resource to verify whether a product is authorized before purchase, and it helps build confidence in the Canadian NHP market.
Who Can Submit Products to the LNHPD?
Manufacturers, distributors, or licence holders can submit products to the LNHPD as long as they meet Health Canada’s requirements.
To begin, each submission should include clear details about the product’s ingredients, dosage form, and recommended use. This gives regulators a clear picture of the intended purpose.
Applicants must also outline any safety warnings and contraindications so that risks are considered and communicated to protect consumers.
In addition, they should provide supporting evidence of the product’s safety and effectiveness, either through clinical studies or recognized traditional use. Without adequate evidence, applications are more likely to face delays or refusals.
Finally, all applications are submitted online through Health Canada’s NNHPD portal, which is the official gateway for review and approval.
Requirements for NHP Submission
Before a product can be licensed and added to the LNHPD, companies must comply with the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR). Key requirements include:
- Manufacturing in line with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Clear and accurate labelling with risks and warnings
- Evidence from clinical studies or traditional medicinal use
Compliance with these standards helps ensure a smoother review and approval process.
Tips for a Successful Application
The NHP licensing process can be complex, but preparation makes it easier. To improve your chances of success:
- Collect all product details before applying
- Provide reliable supporting evidence such as clinical data or published studies
- Respond promptly to any Health Canada requests during the review
Thorough and timely submissions are more likely to be approved without unnecessary delays.
How to Fill Out and Submit a Product to the NHP Database
If you want to submit your natural health product to the NHP Database, the first step is to confirm that it complies with all regulatory requirements set by Health Canada. You can then visit the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) website to complete an electronic application form.
Before starting your application, make sure you have the necessary details about your product, including its ingredients, dosage form, recommended use, and any warnings or contraindications. It is equally important to provide evidence that demonstrates the safety and effectiveness of your product. This evidence can include data from clinical trials or published studies.
FAQs About the LNHPD
Is the LNHPD the same as the NHP Ingredients Database (NHPID)?
No. The LNHPD lists licensed products, while the NHPID catalogs approved ingredients. Both tools are essential because the LNHPD helps you verify which products are authorized, while the NHPID shows what ingredients are permitted in formulations. Together, they give businesses the full picture for compliance.
Can I track my pending application in the LNHPD?
No. Only approved products appear in the LNHPD. Pending submissions do not show up in the database, so applicants must instead check with Health Canada directly or monitor progress through their submission coordinator. This ensures that only licensed products are visible to the public.
What happens if my product application is refused?
Health Canada provides an appeal process through the Product Licensing Appeal Committee (PLAAC). Applicants can present new or stronger evidence to support their case, and the committee may recommend a reassessment. This offers companies an additional opportunity to have their product reviewed fairly.
Do I need an NPN before selling an NHP in Canada?
Yes. Selling an unlicensed NHP can result in product recalls, enforcement actions, fines, or reputational damage. An NPN is the official authorization that confirms your product has met safety, quality, and efficacy standards. Without it, you cannot legally market your NHP in Canada.
What is the benefit of being listed in the LNHPD?
A listing confirms your NHP has been evaluated and authorized. This not only builds credibility with regulators, retailers, and customers, but also helps strengthen consumer trust. Being listed makes your product easier to find and demonstrates your commitment to compliance and quality.
Stay Compliant with Expert Support
Understanding the LNHPD is essential if you want to bring an NHP to market in Canada. Licensing proves that your product meets Health Canada’s standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness, while also building trust with consumers.
At Quality Smart Solutions, our experts can guide you through every step of the process, from preparing your application to managing Health Canada communications. You can also learn more about our NHP licensing services and NPN application services.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and make sure your NHP is licensed, listed, and ready for success in the Canadian market.
