Canada FOP Nutrition Labelling Mandatory for Most Prepackaged Foods From Jan. 1, 2026

Trade Update • Dec. 26, 2025

Key Points

• Mandatory front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbols apply to most prepackaged foods high in saturated fat, sugars, or sodium from January 1, 2026. 
• Symbols must meet prescribed size, format, and appear in English and French on the principal display panel.
• Products exceeding defined nutrient thresholds must display the FOP symbol.
• Certain foods are fully or partially exempt, including some dairy, produce, and single-ingredient products.
• Non-compliance may lead to enforcement actions under Canada’s food inspection framework.

Canada’s front‑of‑package nutrition labelling rules require most prepackaged foods that contain high levels of saturated fat, sugars, or sodium to display a standardized “high in” nutrition symbol on the principal display panel by January 1, 2026. Government authorities finalized these requirements under amendments to the Food and Drug Regulations and provided a multi‑year transition period that ends December 31, 2025. The symbol must follow strict formatting criteria for size, placement, and language to ensure clear visibility and consistency across affected products.

What the FOP Requirements Cover

Nutrient Thresholds and Scope

The FOP symbol applies to prepackaged foods that meet or exceed specific nutrient thresholds based on daily values. Thresholds target nutrients of concern that could contribute to diet-related health risks.

Symbol Presentation Rules

The symbol must:

• Appear on the principal display panel
• Be printed in black and white
• Include both English and French
• Meet size and placement specifications
• Remain visible under customary sales conditions

Exemptions

Some foods are fully exempt from FOP labelling. Others may qualify for conditional exemptions depending on nutrient composition. Regulatory guidance lists categories and conditions for exemption.

Compliance and Enforcement

Authorities will enforce FOP requirements starting January 1, 2026. Non-compliance may trigger corrective action based on severity, following the Standard Inspection Process.

Companies importing or manufacturing foods for Canada should review packaging, artwork, and compliance processes to meet FOP requirements before the mandate takes effect. Early preparation reduces the risk of border delays and in-market issues.

For detailed guidance, refer to the official Front-of-package nutrition symbol labelling guide for industry (Version 2), which includes important information on regulations, exemptions, nutrient thresholds, and symbol presentation.

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