Health Canada is introducing new nutrition labelling regulations for packaged foods requiring a symbol on the front of packages indicating that a food is high in saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium. The regulations will come into effect on July 20, 2022. The new front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbol includes a magnifying glass, intended to capture people’s attention and act as a quick and easy visual cue to identify foods high in these three nutrients. The FOP nutrition symbol will complement the Nutrition Facts table, displayed on the back of food packages, to help Canadians make more informed food choices.”

A front-of-package nutrition symbol is required on foods that are high in one or more of these nutrients:

• sodium
• sugars
• saturated fat

The food industry has been given until January 1, 2026 to make this change. However, you may start seeing the front-of-package nutrition symbol earlier.

Why a front-of-package nutrition symbol

Frequently eating foods high in sodium, sugars or saturated fat can lead to increased health risks. Some of these risks are:

• stroke
• obesity
• heart disease
• type 2 diabetes
• high blood pressure
• some types of cancers

The front-of-package nutrition symbol will:

• help you make quick and informed choices when shopping for groceries.
• support health professionals in educating people about foods high in sodium, sugars and saturated fat.
• More information https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-labelling-changes/front-package.html#a1

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