Labelling · reviewed 2026-10-28 · 3 min read
The front-of-package nutrition symbol in 2026
The transition period has ended. Here's what applies, and where to check your product.
Short answer
Prepackaged foods that meet or exceed Health Canada's thresholds for saturated fat, sugars or sodium need the front-of-package nutrition symbol, unless an exemption applies. The transition period ended on December 31, 2025.
What changed
CFIA said it would not offer enforcement discretion after January 1, 2026. Products imported, manufactured in Canada or packaged at retail before that date can still be sold. Products made or imported on or after it must comply.
Which foods need it
The symbol is triggered by the amount of saturated fat, sugars or sodium compared with a threshold expressed as a percentage of the daily value. For most foods the threshold is 15% DV. For foods with a small reference amount, 30 g or 30 mL or less, it's 10% DV. Some foods have other thresholds or are exempt; Health Canada's labelling guide lists them.
How it must look
The symbol's format, size, colour and placement are specified in the Food and Drug Regulations and Health Canada's Directory of Nutrition Symbol Specifications. A symbol that's present but wrongly sized or placed is still a labelling problem.
Checking your product
- Work out the reference amount and the serving size on your Nutrition Facts table.
- Compare saturated fat, sugars and sodium with the threshold that applies to your food.
- Check whether an exemption applies before deciding the symbol isn't needed.
- If it's needed, check the format against the directory, not only against another product's label.
This guide is general information, not legal advice or a determination for your business. What applies depends on your products, activities and markets.