Canada – Front-of-Package Nutrition Symbol: A Simple Guide to Healthier Choices 

A front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbol is mandatory for prepackaged foods that meet or exceed set levels of saturated fat, sugars or sodium. The implementation date to make this change for the food industry is until January 1, 2026. However, one may start seeing the front-of-package nutrition symbol earlier.

Health Canada’s new FOP labeling initiative is part of a broader effort to combat diet-related illnesses by empowering consumers with knowledge. By making nutrition information easier to understand and act upon, Canadians can take more control over their dietary choices, leading to improved public health outcomes. But what exactly does this labeling system entail, and how does it impact consumers and the food industry?

As this system rolls out, both consumers and the food industry will need to adapt. Whether you’re a shopper looking for healthier options or a manufacturer striving to meet new regulations, understanding FOP nutrition labeling is key to navigating Canada’s evolving food landscape.

When shopping for food, making nutritious choices isn’t always easy—especially when buying prepackaged and processed foods. Many of these products are high in saturated fat, sugars, and sodium, which are major contributors to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. To help Canadians make informed decisions, Health Canada has introduced the Front of-Package (FOP) Nutrition Symbol—a clear, easy-to-spot label that identifies foods high in these nutrients.

The labeling applies to most packaged foods, with some exemptions, such as:

• packaged individual portions, for example: individually portioned crackers served with soup or creamers served with a cup of coffee
• foods in tiny packages
• milk and cream sold in refillable glass bottles
• raw, single ingredient whole cuts of meat, fish and poultry which does not have a nutrition facts table
• healthy foods with a protective effect, such as fruits and vegetables without added saturated fat, sugars or sodium
• some dairy products, for example: plain milk, plain yogurt and cheese. These are important sources of calcium, needed to promote bone health and reduction in the risk of osteoporosis
• raw, single ingredient ground meats and poultry
• butter, sugar, honey, maple syrup, salt, celery salt, seasoning salt, vegetable oils

The front-of-package nutrition symbol is black and white with a magnifying glass. It highlights the foods high in: saturated fat, sugars, sodium or any combination of these.

The words “Health Canada / Santé Canada” appear at the bottom of the symbol.

Examples of the front-of-package nutrition symbol

The ultimate goal is to encourage healthier food choices and drive reformulation. Food manufacturers now have to adjust recipes and formulations to avoid mandatory FOP labels, potentially leading to healthier products on the market.