Food Label Regulations in Canada

Food products in Canada must conform to detailed food labels. These regulations, which include a standardized nutrition box and nutrient content claims, came into effect in 2003 and are enforced by Health Canada. Many Canadians check the packaging on food products to understand what they are buying and consuming.

Labeling

• According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, general labeling requirements information to be displayed prominently on the packaging and easy to read. There must be nutritional facts and durable life date on all food items. Nutritional information must be updated accordingly. Bilingual regulations also require that labels be written in both English and French.

Ingredients

• A list of ingredients must be clearly outlined on the packaging. The product must contain the location of where it was manufactured. It should indicate if it is a low calorie or low fat product. The label should list any allergy alerts, such as whether the contents of the food came into contact with peanuts.

Exemptions

• Certain foods are exempt from these regulations. Fast food that is served immediately to a consumer is exempt from nutritional value or facts regulations. Baked goods bought from a bakery do not include a list of ingredients or fat content of the product. The rules also exempt alcohol, raw meat and fish products, fruits and vegetables.