Front of package labelling: how to prepare for Health Canada’s rules

Food labels are one of the most powerful tools for consumer decision-making. In Canada, front of package labelling (FOP) is changing how products are marketed and sold. If your business makes or distributes prepackaged foods, understanding these requirements is essential to staying compliant and keeping your products on shelves.

What is front of package labelling?

Front of package labelling is a requirement by Health Canada for certain foods that are high in nutrients of concern, such as:

• Saturated fat
  
  

• Sugars
  
  

• Sodium
  
  

Under these regulations, products that meet or exceed specified thresholds must display a standardized FOP nutrition symbol on the front of their packaging. The symbol is designed to help Canadians make quick, informed choices at the grocery store.

Why Health Canada introduced front of package labelling

The goal of front of package labelling is to reduce diet-related chronic diseases by making nutrition information clearer and more accessible. Consumers often overlook or misunderstand the Nutrition Facts table, so the FOP symbol gives them an at-a-glance warning.

For businesses, this means that packaging, marketing, and product development strategies may need adjustments. Ignoring the rules can result in penalties, recalls, or delays in getting products to market.

Key elements of the front of package labelling regulations

Businesses must pay attention to several critical details when it comes to compliance:

• Nutrient thresholds: Health Canada has strict cut-offs for sugars, sodium, and saturated fat. If your product exceeds them, the FOP symbol is mandatory.
  
  

• Standardized design: The symbol’s format, size, and placement are regulated. It must be highly visible and cannot be altered.
  
  

• Exemptions: Some products are exempt, including fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, and certain meats. However, most processed and prepackaged foods must comply.
  
  

Bilingual requirements: Labels must be presented in both English and French to meet federal language laws.
Why compliance matters

Failing to comply with front of package labelling rules can have serious consequences, including:

• Market delays – Products may be pulled from shelves until labels are corrected.
  
  

• Financial costs – Reprinting labels and repackaging is expensive.
  
  

• Regulatory penalties – Health Canada can take enforcement action for non-compliance.
  
  

• Loss of trust – Consumers may lose confidence in your brand if your labels are misleading.
  
  

On the other hand, full compliance helps you avoid disruptions, build consumer confidence, and keep your products competitive.

Frequently asked questions about front of package labelling

Do all foods require a front of package label?
No. Only products that exceed thresholds for sodium, sugars, or saturated fat must display the FOP symbol.

Can I design my own version of the FOP symbol?
No. Health Canada requires a standardized design that cannot be modified.

When do I need to comply with these rules?
Compliance deadlines depend on the regulation phase-in period. Planning ahead ensures you’re not caught off guard.

Conclusion

Front of package labelling is more than just a design update—it’s a regulatory requirement that can affect your market success. By preparing early and working with experts, you can avoid delays, reduce costs, and build consumer trust.