Selling products in Canada means following strict labelling and packaging regulations.

Whether you’re a manufacturer, importer, or retailer, accurate and compliant labelling is not optional, but is required by law. These rules are enforced by federal agencies like Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), with additional requirements in some provinces to ensure consumer safety and trust.

In this guide, we will break down the key labelling obligations you need to meet, including both federal and provincial rules. We will also cover distinctions between food and non-food products, mandatory bilingual labelling, and specific packaging standards, along with how to avoid common compliance errors that can lead to product recalls, fines, or blocked sales.

Introduction to Canada's Product Labelling Requirements

Labelling in Canada serves a very important purpose and is designed to:

• Protect consumers by ensuring products are safe to use or consume

• Promote transparency so buyers know exactly what they’re getting

• Support public health through clear warnings and accurate product details

Who enforces the rules?

Here is a list of agencies that are responsible for enforcing the labelling rules:

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) – This agency oversees food labels and packaging

• Health Canada- They set safety and health-related labelling standards

• Competition Bureau – They ensure truthful and non-misleading marketing claims

What must labels include?

Depending on the product type, labels typically need to show:

• Product identity – What the product is

• Net quantity – The amount or volume in the package

• Ingredients – Full list for food and some non-food items

• Nutritional information – Required for most food products

• Allergen warnings – Mandatory for food and certain personal care products

• Safety instructions – Especially for cosmetics, cleaning supplies, and chemicals

Special requirements by product type:

• Food: Must include nutrition facts, ingredient list, and allergen declarations

• Non-food items: Must follow specific regulations depending on the category (e.g., cosmetics, cleaning agents)

Provincial considerations:

• Quebec: All product labels must be in French, even if sold elsewhere in Canada

• Other provinces may have additional requirements or industry-specific rules

Pro Tip: To stay compliant, you must understand both federal and provincial labelling laws. Failing to meet them can result in product recalls, fines, or being blocked from the market.

Key Labelling Regulations Every Business Must Know

Product labelling requirements Canada aren’t one-size-fits-all; what’s required on a food label won’t always apply to cosmetics or electronics. To stay compliant, businesses must understand how rules shift across different product categories. Here's what you need to watch for:

Mandatory Label Elements

Most consumer products sold in Canada, including food items, must include the following core label elements to meet federal labelling requirements:

• Product Identity Declaration- This requires you to clearly state what the product is, using a common or generic name (e.g., "Whole Wheat Bread").

• Net Quantity- This shows the amount of product in the package, using metric units (e.g., grams, millilitres).

• Dealer Name and Address- This includes the name and full address of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor responsible for the product.

• Bilingual Labelling (English and French)- All mandatory information must appear in both official languages, with few exceptions.

• Ingredients List (for food products)- Owing to this mandate, you are required to list all ingredients in descending order by weight.

• Nutrition Facts Table (required for most food products)- This requires you to provide standardized nutritional information as set by Health Canada.

• Allergen Declarations (for applicable products)- This helps identify common allergens clearly and visibly on the label.

• Country of Origin (when applicable)- This helps indicate where the product was manufactured or produced, especially important for imported goods.

• Principal Display Panel (PDP)- This is the main part of the label that faces the consumer and must contain key information like the product name and net quantity.

These elements are not optional. Failing to include any of them can lead to enforcement actions, including product recalls or removal from the marketplace.

Variations Across Different Product Categories

Labelling requirements in Canada, as specified by the Government of Canada, vary depending on the type of product, including those that are a product of Canada. Each category has specific rules based on its use, risk level, and how it's regulated.

1. Food Products

Regulated primarily by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada. Mandatory label elements include:

• Nutrition Facts Table

• Complete ingredients list

• Allergen declarations

• Product identity and net quantity

• Bilingual labelling (English and French)

These requirements are designed to protect public health and ensure consumers have clear, accurate nutritional information.

2. Cosmetics

Governed by Health Canada under the Cosmetic Regulations. Labels must include:

• Product identity

• Net quantity

• List of ingredients (using INCI names)

• Name and address of the manufacturer or distributor

• Any necessary warnings or directions for safe use

• Bilingual labelling

3. Household Chemicals and Hazardous Products

Covered under the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations (CCCR) and the Hazardous Products Act. Labels must include:

• Product identity

• Hazard symbols and warnings

• First aid instructions

• Safe handling instructions

• Supplier identification

• Bilingual labelling

4. Electronics and Electrical Products

Regulated by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and Health Canada (for safety). Labels may require:

• Model number and product identity

• Manufacturer or importer information

• Compliance markings (e.g., CSA, UL, FCC, or IC certification)

• Electrical ratings (voltage, amperage)

• Bilingual instructions and safety information, where applicable.

Label content and format must align with the specific regulations for each product type. Applying the wrong standards can result in non-compliance, delays at customs, or product recalls. Always check the relevant industry guidelines before going to market.

Specific Requirements for Food Labelling

Understanding the rules for food product labelling Canada goes beyond basic packaging—it's about meeting strict standards that protect public health and support informed choices. From nutrition details to allergen warnings, here's what every business needs to know to stay compliant:

1. Nutritional Information

Food labels in Canada must include specific nutritional details to help consumers make informed dietary choices. These requirements are enforced by Health Canada and apply to most prepackaged food products.

Category	Requirement
Nutrition Facts Table	Must be included on the label and show: – Calories – Fat (saturated + trans) – Carbohydrates (sugars + fibre) – Protein – Sodium – Key vitamins and minerals (e.g., calcium, iron, potassium)
Ingredient List	– All ingredients listed in descending order by weight – Must use common names – Must declare priority allergens, gluten sources, and sulphites
Calorie Declaration	– Calories must be clearly shown at the top of the Nutrition Facts table
Bilingual Labelling	– All nutritional and ingredient information must be in both English and French

These labelling rules are mandatory and designed to promote transparency, support public health, and protect individuals with dietary restrictions or food allergies.

2. Allergen Disclosures

In Canada, food labels must clearly identify certain allergens, as well as gluten sources and added sulphites. This is a legal requirement enforced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to protect individuals with food allergies or sensitivities.

Mandatory Allergen Labelling:

Food products must declare the presence of:

• Priority allergens – including peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, sesame, mustard, fish, and shellfish

• Gluten sources – such as barley, rye, oats, triticale, and wheat

• Added sulphites – when present at 10 parts per million (ppm) or more

Labelling Requirements:

• All allergen declarations must appear in plain language

• Information must be provided in both English and French

• Allergen warnings should be clearly visible and often located directly in the ingredient list (e.g., “Contains: Milk, Wheat”), in a separate “Contains” or “May contain” statement below the ingredient list

These requirements are in place to help consumers quickly identify potential allergens and make safe food choices.

Non-Food Product Labelling Standards

Labelling is not just for food products. It also applies to many other non-food items. Let's discuss some must-have things on these labels:

1. Consumer Product Safety Information

Non-food consumer products sold in Canada must meet specific labelling requirements under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA). These rules are designed to inform consumers about potential hazards and ensure product safety.

Mandatory Label Elements:

• Product Identity and Net Quantity- This must be shown clearly on the principal display panel, using metric units.

• Dealer Information- The label must include the name, address, and place of business of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor.

• Country of Origin- It is required for certain product categories, particularly textiles and imported goods.

Safety and Hazard Information:

Depending on the type of product, the label may also require:

• Hazard Symbols and Warning Statements- For products that pose physical, chemical, or toxic risks (e.g., cleaning agents, batteries, lighters, etc.)

• Safety Instructions- Clear directions for safe use, handling, or storage—especially important for items like household chemicals and electrical products.

• Age-Grade Statements- Required for products intended for children, such as toys or baby gear. These help indicate the appropriate age group and reduce safety risks.

All safety-related information must be easy to read, accurate, and available in both English and French. Failing to meet these labelling requirements can lead to enforcement actions, including product recalls or fines.

2. Cosmetic Product Specifications

Cosmetic products sold in Canada must comply with Health Canada’s Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act. These rules ensure products are safe for use and properly labelled for consumer awareness.

Key Labelling Requirements:

• Product Identity- Must clearly state what the product is and its intended use (e.g., “moisturizing cream”).

• Ingredient List- All ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight, use International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names, and the list should appear on the outer packaging or directly on the container if there is no outer packaging

• Manufacturer or Importer Information- The name and address of the responsible party (manufacturer or importer) must be included on the label.

• Allergen and Warning Statements- Any cautionary statements (e.g., for eye or skin irritation) must be included when relevant to the product’s use.

• Bilingual Labelling- All mandatory information must appear in both English and French.

Federal and Provincial Compliance Differences

Federal labelling laws set the main rules, but each province can add its own changes.

Quebec’s Specific Labelling Laws

Quebec has strict French-language labelling requirements for fresh fruit, enforced by the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF). To sell products in the province, businesses must ensure that French is clearly and prominently displayed on all packaging and labels.

Key Requirements:

• Mandatory French Text- All mandatory product information—such as ingredients, instructions, safety warnings, and traceability details—must be provided in French, regardless of whether other languages appear.

• Equal Prominence- French text must be at least as visible, legible, and clear as any other language used. It must not be smaller, fainter, or placed in a less prominent location than English.

• Trademarks and Brand Names- Registered trademarks in English may be used without translation if no French version is registered. However, recent changes require many businesses to include a generic description or slogan in French alongside English-only trademarks.

• Applies to All Parts of Packaging- French must appear on every part of the packaging, including product labels, inserts, and promotional materials.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Businesses that fail to meet Quebec’s language laws may face fines, product holds, or enforcement actions. Non-compliance can also lead to product removal from retail shelves.

Therefore, to operate legally and effectively in Quebec, companies must make French-language compliance a priority in every stage of product packaging and labelling.

Ontario’s Guidelines for Product Labels

Ontario generally follows federal labelling regulations set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada. This means food products sold in Ontario must:

• Include bilingual labelling (English and French)

• Display a Nutrition Facts table

• List ingredients and priority allergens clearly

For non-food items, labels must:

• Show the country of origin

• Indicate the net quantity

• Include the manufacturer's or importer’s name and address

• Place this information on the principal display panel for visibility

Additional Provincial Oversight:

While Ontario does not add many design-specific requirements beyond federal rules, certain product categories—such as alcoholic beverages—are regulated by provincial authorities, including the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO). These products may need to meet additional labelling standards, such as warnings or format specifications, set at the provincial level.

Common Labelling Mistakes and Their Legal Consequences: What You Need to Know

Labelling errors can lead to serious legal and financial consequences for businesses in Canada. Even minor mistakes may result in non-compliance with federal laws such as the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Food and Drugs Act, or the Competition Act.

Frequent Labelling Mistakes:

• Missing bilingual information- All mandatory label content must be in both English and French. Omitting one language is a common—and costly—violation.

• Incorrect or misleading product details- Inaccurate claims about ingredients, quantity, origin, or product function can lead to charges under the Competition Act for deceptive marketing.

• Incomplete allergen declarations- Failing to identify priority allergens, gluten sources, or added sulphites puts consumers at risk and can result in product recalls or enforcement actions.

• Incorrect net quantity- Stating the wrong volume, weight, or count can violate the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act.

• Unclear or illegible labelling- If the essential information is too small, hard to read, or not placed prominently, the label may be considered non-compliant.

Legal Consequences:

• Fines: Penalties for non-compliance typically range from $5,000 to $10,000 for minor infractions.

• Recalls: Products with inaccurate or missing information may be subject to mandatory recalls.

• Prosecution: In severe cases, violations can lead to criminal charges, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison.

• Reputation damage: Regulatory breaches often lead to negative publicity, eroding consumer trust.

How to Avoid Them?

To avoid labelling mistakes, businesses need to follow a clear and consistent process. 

• Double-check product info: Make sure net quantity, ingredients, and allergen info are accurate and complete.
  
  

• Use honest claims: Avoid false or misleading statements about the product's benefits, ingredients, or origin.
  
  

• Stay updated: Follow the latest rules from Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
  
  

• Review labels regularly: Routine checks—done internally or with experts—help catch errors early.
  
  

• Do regular audits: Scheduled reviews reduce the risk of recalls and protect your brand's reputation.

Choosing the Right Label Printer for Quality

When you are picking a printer, you need to look at things like how clear the print is, how long the printer will last, and if it can make labels in different formats for consumer packaging.

Let's take a look at some of the best options:

Zebra ZT610 Industrial Label Printer

Key Feature: The Zebra ZT610 is a high-performance thermal label printer designed for industrial use. It offers fast printing speeds and advanced features, including optional  RFID encoding for tracking and inventory control. The printer is built for durability and can handle continuous, high-volume printing in demanding environments.

What makes it effective: 

• This model is well-suited for use in manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors that require precise and reliable labelling. 

• It supports compliance labelling standards such as CSA, UL, and GHS when used with the correct label materials and ribbons.

• It is efficient, durable and reliable for bulk operations.
  
  

What you should consider: 

• Not suitable for small businesses due to its high cost and large size.

• Prints monochrome direct thermal and thermal transfer labels only
  
  

Use Case: 

• It is ideal for high-volume industrial labelling in manufacturing, logistics, and pharmaceuticals. 

• It also supports compliance labels (CSA, UL, GHS) when used with appropriate materials and is most widely used in Canadian food, chemical, and retail supply chains.

Afinia L502 Colour Label Printer

Key Features: The Afinia L502 is a desktop color inkjet label printer designed for small to mid-sized businesses. It supports both dye and pigment inks, allowing users to choose between vibrant color output or more durable, water-resistant prints. The printer uses four separate CMYK ink cartridges, which helps reduce replacement costs and improves color accuracy.

What makes it effective: 

• Affordable and easy to use 

• Uses 4 separate CMYK ink cartridges.
  
  

What you should consider: 

• The printer has a lower print speed, which is not ideal for high volume.
  
  

Use Case: 

• This model is well-suited for businesses that need high-quality, custom labels on demand. 

• It is commonly used for artisanal foods, cosmetics, craft beverages, and other specialty products where visual appeal is important.

•  It is especially great for moderate print volumes with a focus on quality.

Primera LX910 Color Label Printer

Key Features: The Primera LX910 is a compact desktop colour label printer designed for businesses that need high-quality, professional labels. It supports both dye and pigment inks, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from vibrant retail packaging to more durable, moisture-resistant labels.

What makes it effective: 

• The LX910 delivers excellent print quality and sharp graphics, making it ideal for premium products.
  
  

What you should consider: 

• The printer uses a single tricolour CMY cartridge, which can lead to higher long-term ink costs, especially if one colour runs out faster than others.
  
  

Use Case: 

• It is best for premium, high-quality labels in boutique retail, beverages, and cosmetics. 

• The printer is best suited for short to medium print runs where label quality is a priority over volume.

VIPColor VP550 high-speed colour Label Printer

Key Features: The VIPColor VP550 is a high-speed colour label printer designed for businesses that need durable, water- and smudge-resistant labels.

What makes it effective: 

• This printer is built for efficiency and performs well in environments where compliance with Canadian labelling standards, like allergen warnings or chemical hazard labels, is required. 

• It handles small to medium print batches quickly, making it a practical choice for on-demand labelling.
  
  

What you should consider: 

• The VP550 prints at 1600 dpi print resolution and 8 ips per second. It is fast and prints excellent quality. Best buy for speed and performance for color label printer.
  
  

Use Case: 

• It is well-suited for products that require moisture protection, such as in the food, beverage, and chemical industries.

Navigating Canada’s Labelling Requirements? DuraFast Labels Can Help.

Meeting Canada’s strict labelling regulations, like bilingual content, allergen disclosure, and Nutrition Facts formatting, requires precision and flexibility. At DuraFast Labels, our advanced label printers are built to help businesses stay compliant while elevating their product presentation.

• Regulatory-Ready Printing: Easily meet CFIA and Health Canada requirements with sharp, high-resolution output.

• Customizable Shapes: Built-in die-cutters allow tailored designs that fit compliance and branding needs.

• Easy Design Tools: Intuitive software ensures your labels are accurate and bilingual-ready.

• Cost-Saving Solution: Print in-house to reduce errors, waste, and outsourcing costs.

Whether you’re in food, cosmetics, or retail, DuraFast helps ensure your labels meet Canadian standards while making your products stand out.

Contact us today and explore our range of high-performance label printers.

Conclusion: Ensuring Full Compliance

To sell products in Canada, businesses must meet strict labelling standards where accurate product details, bilingual text, and category-specific rules are non-negotiable. 

Staying up to date with regulations from Health Canada and the CFIA, using trusted labelling tools, and conducting regular label reviews are key steps to avoiding costly errors. 

In addition, clear, compliant labelling does more than meet legal requirements; it builds consumer trust, supports transparency, and protects your brand in a competitive, highly regulated market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most recent changes in Canada’s labelling regulations?

Recent updates to food labels include a revised Nutrition Facts Table with clearer layouts, effective December. These changes aim to align with drug regulations and labelling standards. Health Canada is prioritizing education and support over enforcement during the transition period to help businesses adjust.

2. Where can businesses find resources for compliance assistance?

Businesses can access labelling guidance from the CFIA’s Guide to Food Labelling and Advertising and Health Canada’s official website. These platforms offer tools, templates, and updates. Direct contact with these agencies can provide tailored advice based on your product type and industry.

3. How often should labels be reviewed for compliance?

It’s recommended to review labels at least once a year or whenever regulatory updates are issued by Health Canada, the CFIA, or provincial authorities. Regular reviews help ensure continued compliance, prevent costly errors, and keep your products legally and accurately represented on the market.