Designing a compliant food label is one of the most important steps when entering the Canadian market. The food labeling requirements in Canada are strict, detailed, and differ significantly from other countries such as the United States. For businesses exporting to Canada, understanding these rules is essential to avoid costly redesigns or product delays.
Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) oversee food labeling regulations to protect consumers and promote transparency. From bilingual text to new front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition symbols, each element on your package must meet specific standards. Keep reading to learn what you need to include to ensure your food label fully complies with Canadian regulations.
Bilingual Food Labeling Requirements
In Canada, all mandatory information must appear in both English and French. This bilingual requirement is not optional, it’s actually a legal obligation. Food labels must give equal prominence to both languages, meaning font size, colour, and placement should be balanced.
Brands planning to sell in Quebec or through national retailers need to be especially careful. Quebec has additional rules requiring that French text appears first or is more visible. To stay compliant, review your layout early in the design process and plan space for translation rather than squeezing it in later.
Nutrition and Health Claims
Health Canada strictly regulates the types of nutrition and health claims that can appear on food labels. Claims like “low in fat” or “source of fibre” must meet defined nutrient thresholds, while disease-risk reduction or general health claims require scientific evidence.
Many statements that are acceptable in the United States may not meet Canadian standards. For instance, a product advertised as “high protein” must meet specific protein content levels under the Food and Drug Regulations. Before finalizing your packaging, confirm whether your desired claims appear on Health Canada’s List of Permitted Nutrient Content Claims.
Nutrition Facts Table and Ingredient List Requirements
Every prepackaged food in Canada must include a Nutrition Facts table (NFT) and an ingredient list. Health Canada prescribes the layout, font size, and sequence of nutrients displayed. The NFT must show calories and 13 core nutrients, expressed per serving size, using the standardized format.
The ingredient list must appear in both official languages and follow descending order by weight. Food allergens, gluten sources, and sulphites must be clearly identified using plain language. This requirement helps protect consumers with allergies and improves transparency.
Businesses introducing supplemented or fortified foods should also review Health Canada’s Food Labelling for Industry Guide, which provides detailed instructions on NFT formats and ingredient labeling.
Location and Legibility Rules
Legibility and placement are key parts of Canada’s food labeling framework. Required information such as the product’s common name, net quantity, dealer name and address, and ingredient list must appear in specific locations on the principal display panel.
Health Canada also enforces minimum type size and contrast standards to ensure consumers can easily read the text. Non-compliance could result in enforcement actions or the need to reprint packaging, causing unnecessary costs and delays.
Front-of-Pack (FOP) Nutrition Symbol Requirements
Starting January 1, 2026, new front-of-pack nutrition labeling will apply to most prepackaged foods sold in Canada. Foods containing 15% or more of the daily value of saturated fat, sugars, or sodium will require a “high in” symbol on the front panel.
This change aims to help consumers make quick, informed choices and aligns with global nutrition transparency trends. Businesses should start preparing now by assessing product formulations and adjusting designs to accommodate the new symbol before the deadline.
Key Takeaways
- Always include both English and French text on your labels.
- Verify every nutrition or health claim against Health Canada’s permitted list.
- Use the standard Nutrition Facts table and bilingual ingredient list format.
- Follow placement, font size, and legibility rules carefully.
- Prepare for the new front-of-pack nutrition symbol by January 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all food products in Canada need bilingual labels?
Yes. All mandatory information must appear in both English and French across Canada. Exceptions are rare and limited to certain local or specialty products.
Can I use my U.S. Nutrition Facts panel in Canada?
No. U.S. and Canadian formats differ in required nutrients, serving sizes, and layout. You must use the Canadian Nutrition Facts table.
Are health claims mandatory on food labels?
No. Health or nutrient claims are optional, but if you choose to include them, they must follow Health Canada’s specific conditions for use.
Do small manufacturers get exemptions from the new FOP symbol?
Some small packages and certain foods may qualify for exemptions, but most prepackaged products will require the new symbol.
Next Steps
Creating compliant food packaging that meets Health Canada’s food labeling requirements in Canada requires attention to every detail, from language and layout to claims and nutrient data. Working with regulatory professionals ensures your brand avoids costly mistakes and reaches store shelves faster.
At Quality Smart Solutions, we guide businesses through every stage of food labeling compliance, including front-of-pack symbol updates, food label and French translation, Nutrition Facts Table design, supplemented food compliance, novel foods and additives, food safety, and pet food requirements.
Learn more about how we can support your compliance journey by visiting our Canada Food Compliance Services page, or contact us today for a free consultation.
