Share information about front-of-package nutrition labelling

A new symbol is starting to appear on the front of some foods and drinks.

• The front-of-package symbol is black and white with a magnifying glass to capture your attention.
• The front-of-package symbol can help you identify foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium.
  • You will see the words "High in" at the top of the symbol along with sat fat, sugars or sodium.
  • You will see the words "Health Canada" at the bottom of the symbol to point out that the government requires it.
• Although many foods and drinks will require the front-of-package symbol starting in 2026, you may already find it on some packages.

Health Canada developed the front-of-package symbol to help you quickly and easily identify foods and drinks high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium.

• Regularly eating foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium can increase your risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
• You can use the new front-of-package symbol as a tool to quickly compare similar foods. For example, you can compare the label on different cereals or different soups to make an informed choice.
• Use Canada's food guide to help you make food choices that support your health and well-being.

Some foods won't need to display a front-of-package symbol. Here are some reasons:

• That food isn't high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium.
• That food has health protection benefits. This includes foods such as vegetables and fruits.
• Nutrition information isn't required on that food, such as whole cuts of raw meat with no added ingredients.
• The symbol could appear redundant, such as on packages of sugar and salt.

Life gets busy and making choices at the grocery store isn't always easy. Between rushing through the aisles and juggling dinner plans, it's hard to find time to read every label. That's where a little extra help comes in.

A new symbol is starting to appear on the front of some food and drink packages to help people in Canada make informed choices. It is designed to catch your eye with its magnifying glass icon and black-and-white design.

It identifies foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars, or sodium, which can increase your risk of heart disease, type two diabetes, and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.

By 2026, many products will require this symbol, but some packages already have it today.

Use it as a quick comparison tool—whether you're shopping for cereals, soups, or snacks for example.

It's a simple way to be informed while choosing foods.

Learn more at canada.ca/frontpackagelabelling.