Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Front-of-packaging symbol labelling

Canada’s new front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labelling regulations aim to help consumers make informed dietary choices by highlighting foods high in saturated fat, sugars, or sodium. Food manufacturers need to act to be compliant, adjust packaging or recipes, and avoid penalties.

Read our complete article: Urgent: New Canadian Front-of-Package Food Labeling Regulations

Which food products require a front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbol?

Any prepackaged food that exceeds Health Canada’s thresholds for saturated fat, sugars, or sodium must display the symbol. Thresholds are based on % Daily Value (DV):

  • ≥15% DV for most foods
  • ≥10% DV for small packages (≤30 g or ≤30 mL)
  • ≥30% DV for prepackaged meals

The regulations came into effect on July 20, 2022, but food manufacturers have until January 1, 2026, to ensure all products meet labelling requirements.

  • The symbol is black and white, includes a magnifying glass, and states “High in [saturated fat/sugars/sodium]”.
  • It must appear on the upper half of the front of the package (principal display panel), unless restricted by packaging shape.

Yes, here are some examples of food products exempt from the front-of-packaging labelling:

  • Fresh fruits & vegetables (no added fat, sugar, or sodium)
  • Plain milk, yogurt, cheese (as key calcium sources)
  • Raw whole cuts of meat, poultry, fish (if they do not carry a Nutrition Facts table)
  • Single-serving restaurant and institution foods

Yes. Reformulating to reduce saturated fat, sugars, or sodium below the threshold eliminates the need for the front-of-package symbol.

Yes. English and French symbols or a bilingual symbol must be displayed, as per the Canadian bilingual packaging regulations.

After January 1, 2026, non-compliant products may face enforcement actions, such as:

  • Recalls or market withdrawal
  • Fines and penalties under Canada’s Food and Drugs Act

You cannot use a health or nutrient content claim (e.g., “low sodium”) if the product has a front-of-package symbol.

  • Small packages (≤30 g or ≤30 mL) have a lower 10% DV threshold.
  • Large prepackaged main dishes (e.g., frozen meals) have a higher 30% DV threshold.
  • Review food product nutrition data against the front-of-package symbol thresholds.
  • Plan reformulation strategies to avoid excessive saturated fat, sugars, or sodium, and consequently avoid the need to display the mandatory front-of-package symbol.
  • Redesign packaging to add the mandatory front-of-package symbol, when required.
  • The front-of-package nutrition symbol must be black and white, include a magnifying glass icon, and state “High in [saturated fat/sugars/sodium]” with “Health Canada / Santé Canada” at the bottom.
  • It must be bilingual (English & French), placed in the upper half of the principal display panel (PDP), and sized proportionally to the PDP for visibility.
  • Exceptions apply for small packages or unique shapes, where alternative placements may be permitted.