If your pre-packaged food products are high in sodium, sugar, or saturated fat, a nutrition symbol will be required on the front of your packaging. The Government of Canada released a new requirement that gives the food industry until January 2026 to make the proper adjustments.
Why is this being implemented?
Eating foods that are high in sodium, sugar, or saturated fat can lead to higher risks for various health conditions, including:
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Heart Disease
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Cancer (some types)
While the amount of sodium, sugar or saturated fats are listed on the nutrition facts on the back package, do you always look at it? Maybe you do! But nothing is highlighted or emphasized to alert you to these high quantities.
What foods require the symbol?
The Canadian Government requires all prepackaged foods that meet or exceed the set levels for sodium, sugars or saturated fat. While we need some of these nutrients, it’s important that we don’t exceed the daily values.
So, what will the front-of-package label do?
The goal of the front-of-package label allows you to be aware right when you pick up pre-packaged food in the store. It’s right there to help you make an informed decision without having to look through the entire nutrition label.
The label will also help health professionals educate us on foods that are high in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat – all factors in increased health risks.
How does it affect your packaging?
Size, location, and language are all factors that are required to be met for packaging product that’s high in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat.
For size and location, it depends on the size and shape of your package.
Since English and French are primary languages in Canada, your symbol must be in both languages. It can either be two separate symbols, one in each language, or both on the same symbol.
To read more about sizing and where the label is required to go, you can read more from the Canadian Government labeling guide.
We’re all doing the best we can to ensure that we’re working towards a healthier and more sustainable future! If your packaging requires this label, we can ensure it meets the requirements while continuing to make your packaging look good.
Design change needed? No problem!
Our Creative Agency is well-versed in all things packaging, including the new labelling laws. If your packaging needs a compliance refresh, reach out today. We’ll have your products looking ready to go in no time.