Health Canada's new regulations mandate front-of-package labelling for prepacked foods high in sodium, sugars, or saturated fat. This initiative, introduced in July 2020, aims to help consumers make informed choices and encourage food producers to reformulate products. Full implementation is required by January 1, 2026.
Look to the labels: Canada announces new requirements for food labels
Health risksAtlanticNutrition factsHealth CanadaSylvain CharleboisFood packagingKiah Henenke FlindallLaurie Barker-Jackman
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Health Canada's new regulations mandate front-of-package labelling for prepacked foods high in sodium, sugars, or saturated fat. This initiative, introduced in July 2020, aims to help consumers make informed choices and encourage food producers to reformulate products. Full implementation is required by January 1, 2026.
Trending- 1 July 2020: Health Canada regulations for front-of-package labelling first introduced.
- 2 July 2024: Four-year period for food companies to update packaging ended.
- 3 January 1, 2026: Full implementation of the labelling system becomes mandatory.
- Consumers will see more nutritional information on the front of food packages.
- Food producers are reformulating their products, potentially leading to healthier options.
- Increased awareness of health risks associated with high sodium, sugar, and saturated fat intake.
- Health professionals will have support in educating people about these foods.
What: New requirements for front-of-package food labels in Canada have been announced.
When: Regulations were first introduced in July 2020. Food companies had four years to update their packaging (until July 2024). Full implementation is mandatory by January 1, 2026.
Where: Canada.
Why: To help consumers make quick and informed choices about foods high in sodium, sugars, and saturated fat, which increase the risk of chronic diseases (heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, obesity, type 2 diabetes). It also aims to encourage food producers to reformulate their products.
How: Health Canada issued a directive requiring labels if a product exceeds 15 percent of the recommended daily intake of sodium, sugars, or saturated fat. Some exemptions apply, such as plain milk, plain yogurt, and cheese.