What to know about Canada’s new front package nutrition warning labels
Global News
Canada now requires a front package nutrition symbol on many products high in sugar, sodium or saturated fat to help consumers make healthier choices.
Canada is now subject to mandatory front-of-package nutrition warning symbols on many packaged foods as part of a federal effort to help consumers make healthier choices at the grocery store.
Under the new rules, foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium will be required to display a black and white symbol on the front of their packaging.
The symbol, introduced by Health Canada, highlights which nutrients exceed recommended levels and is designed to be easily visible without needing to check the nutrition facts table.
The changes took effect Jan. 1, 2026, though Canadians may already see the symbols on some products as manufacturers began updating labels ahead of the deadline.
Health Canada says frequent consumption of foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium is linked to increased health risks, including heart disease, stroke, obesity, Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
The front-of-package symbol is intended to act as a quick visual cue, helping shoppers make informed decisions more easily.
Not all foods will be required to carry the symbol. Exemptions include fresh fruits and vegetables with no added sugars, fats or sodium, raw whole cuts of meat and fish that do not carry a nutrition facts table, and certain dairy products such as plain milk, yogurt and cheese.
Products like butter, sugar, salt, honey and maple syrup are also excluded, along with very small packages and some food-service portion items.
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