The purpose behind the new labelling
Canadians, on average, get about 50% of their daily calories from highly processed foods, which are often high in saturated fat, sugars, and sodium. High consumption of these nutrients is linked to serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. To combat this, Health Canada's new front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labelling regulations are designed to help consumers make quicker, healthier food choices at a glance while shopping.
How the new symbol works
The new FOP symbol is a black-and-white icon featuring a magnifying glass. It clearly states "High in" followed by the nutrient(s) of concern: saturated fat, sugars, and/or sodium. This symbol must be placed prominently on the top half of the principal display panel of the package, ensuring it is easily visible to consumers.
The symbol is triggered when a food product exceeds specific daily value (DV) thresholds for saturated fat, sugars, or sodium:
- General Prepackaged Foods: Greater than or equal to 15% DV per serving or reference amount.
- Main Dishes: Greater than or equal to 30% DV per serving, for meals intended to be eaten in one sitting, like a frozen lasagna.
- Small Reference Amounts: Greater than or equal to 10% DV for foods with a reference amount of 30g or 30mL or less, such as sauces or condiments.
Impact on the Nutrition Facts table
The FOP symbol does not replace the detailed Nutrition Facts table found on the side or back of food packages. Instead, it serves as a quick visual cue to guide consumers. The existing Nutrition Facts table and ingredients list remain essential for a comprehensive understanding of a product's nutritional profile.
Comparing the new FOP symbol and the Nutrition Facts table
| Feature | New Front-of-Package (FOP) Symbol | Existing Nutrition Facts Table |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Quick visual alert for high levels of specific nutrients (saturated fat, sugars, sodium). | Detailed breakdown of calories and 13 core nutrients (e.g., fats, carbs, protein, vitamins). |
| Location | Prominently displayed on the front of the food package. | Standardized panel typically located on the side or back of the package. |
| Nutrients Covered | Saturated fat, sugars, and/or sodium only. | Calories, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrate, fibre, sugars, protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. |
| Information Type | Summary warning based on set thresholds. | Precise nutrient quantities and % Daily Value based on a specific serving size. |
| Usage | Helps make quick, at-a-glance comparisons between products. | Offers a complete nutritional picture, including beneficial nutrients. |
Key exemptions from the FOP symbol
Some products that are part of a healthy eating pattern or pose no nutritional risk are exempt from the FOP symbol requirements. This is to avoid penalizing nutritious foods that may naturally contain higher levels of certain nutrients. Key exemptions include:
- Whole foods: Fresh, whole fruits and vegetables, and raw, single-ingredient ground meats and poultry.
- Dairy products: Plain milk, plain yogurt, and cheese are exempt due to their importance as sources of calcium.
- Essential ingredients: Ingredients like sugar, salt, and butter are exempt.
- Specialty foods: Infant formula, meal replacements, and nutritional supplements are exempt due to their specific regulatory requirements.
- Small packages: Products with a very small display surface (less than 15 cm²) are exempt for technical reasons.
How the new labels benefit consumers and industry
The implementation of these new labels is expected to have a significant impact on both consumer behaviour and the food industry.
Benefits for consumers
- Easier Shopping: The symbol allows shoppers to make quick, informed comparisons between products, particularly when faced with a wide array of options.
- Improved Health Outcomes: By highlighting foods high in saturated fat, sugars, and sodium, the labels can help reduce the intake of these nutrients, which may lower the risk of diet-related chronic diseases.
- Increased Health Awareness: The prominent labels serve as an educational tool, raising consumer awareness about the nutrient content of processed foods.
Impact on the food industry
- Encourages Reformulation: Many manufacturers are incentivized to reformulate their recipes to fall below the DV thresholds and avoid placing the prominent "High in" symbol on their packaging.
- Drives Innovation: This push for reformulation is spurring the development of healthier versions of popular food products, ultimately benefiting consumers.
- Ensures Transparency: The new rules create a more consistent and transparent labelling system across the Canadian food market.
Beyond the new labels: A holistic approach to diet
While the new labels are a powerful tool, it's important to view them as part of a larger healthy eating strategy. A healthy diet involves more than just avoiding foods with the FOP symbol. Health Canada's updated Food Guide also emphasizes a holistic approach to eating, encouraging more plant-based foods, mindful eating habits, and water as the drink of choice. The FOP symbol should be used in conjunction with a deeper understanding of nutrition, reading the full Nutrition Facts table, and consulting the ingredient list for a complete picture. For further nutritional information, you can always refer to the official Canada.ca health website.
Conclusion
By January 1, 2026, the new front-of-package nutrition symbols will be a common sight in Canadian grocery stores. These symbols are a significant step by Health Canada to empower consumers with clear, at-a-glance information about foods high in saturated fat, sugars, and sodium. While some products are exempt, the regulations are set to encourage healthier food choices and potentially drive positive changes in the food industry through product reformulation. For a well-rounded diet, use the FOP symbol as an initial alert, but always consult the full Nutrition Facts table and ingredients list for a complete understanding of what's in your food.
