If you’re trying to bring a food or supplement product to both the Canadian and US markets, you’ve probably already noticed how complicated labeling can get. Maybe you’ve had a label approved in one country but rejected in the other, or you’ve found yourself buried in pages of inconsistent regulations. You’re not the only one facing this.
We get it. You’re just trying to do the right thing and get your product on shelves, without wasting time or money on rework. Labeling shouldn’t feel like navigating a maze.
That’s why this guide is here to help walk you through the essential differences between Canadian and US labeling rules so you can move forward with clarity. Keep reading to find out what you need to know.
Different regulators, different frameworks
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates both food and dietary supplements under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). You can learn more on the FDA’s Food Labeling and Nutrition page. Supplements follow additional rules under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA).
In Canada, foods are regulated under the Food and Drugs Act and Food and Drug Regulations (FDR), enforced by Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Details are available on Health Canada’s Food Labelling page.
Supplements, categorized as Natural Health Products (NHPs), are governed by the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD). Guidance can be found on Health Canada’s NHP Regulations page.
Food vs supplement labeling: Core differences
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to recognize that food and supplements are regulated very differently, even within the same country. These differences impact everything from your panel layout to what claims you’re allowed to make.
Below is a comparison chart that breaks down the most important distinctions between Canadian and US requirements for both categories.
| Requirement | Canada – Food | Canada – Supplements (NHPs) | US – Food | US – Supplements |
| Regulator | CFIA / Health Canada | NNHPD | FDA | FDA (DSHEA) |
| Label Format | Nutrition Facts Table (NFT) or Supplemented Food Facts Table | Product Facts Table | Nutrition Facts | Supplement Facts |
| Language | Bilingual (English and French) | Bilingual | English only | English only |
| Ingredient Disclosure | Mandatory, descending by weight | Mandatory, must align with licence | Mandatory, descending by weight | Mandatory for active ingredients |
| Health Claims | Basic nutrient claims permitted with evidence | Strictly controlled by monographs and licenced claims with evidence | Permitted (must be truthful) | Structure/function allowed with disclaimer |
| Unique ID | Not applicable | NPN (Natural Product Number) | Not applicable | None |
| Allergen Disclosure | Mandatory | Mandatory | Mandatory (FALCPA) | Mandatory (if applicable) |
Health claims and disclaimers
In Canada, both food and supplement claims must comply with strict requirements:
- For food: Only certain nutrient content and function claims are allowed unless pre-approved.
- For NHPs: Claims must align with Health Canada’s published monographs or be supported by clinical evidence.
In the US, structure/function claims are allowed on supplements as long as they include this disclaimer:
“This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”
Disease reduction claims for both food and supplements must be authorized by the FDA based on significant scientific agreement.
Common compliance pitfalls and how to avoid them
Trying to reuse the same label across markets is a common and costly mistake. From missing bilingual elements in Canada to misusing claims or mixing up Nutrition Facts and Supplement Facts panels, even small details can cause major setbacks if you’re not aligned with each country’s standards.
The good news? These challenges are manageable with the right support. At Quality Smart Solutions, we offer practical services to help you avoid these setbacks:
- Label audits for both food and supplements
- Product classification assistance (is it a food or a supplement?)
- NHP product license applications
- Supplement Facts and Nutrition Facts compliance reviews
- Ingredient and claim assessments
With expert guidance, you can move confidently into new markets knowing every label meets local requirements before your product hits the shelf.
Final thoughts
Food and supplement labeling requirements differ substantially between Canada and the US. What passes in one country may be flagged in another, even for the same product. By understanding the nuances of each regulatory system, you’ll save time, reduce risk, and protect your brand.
Need expert help? Contact us or fill out the form below to streamline your compliance process and launch with confidence.
