Applying partial label changes – transition provisions
The transition provisions for the different components of the regulatory amendments are independent of one another. The components are:
- the front-of-package labelling requirements (nutrition symbol)
- nutrient content claims requirements
- vitamin D fortification requirements
- the labelling requirements for certain high intensity sweeteners (for example, phenylalanine statement for foods containing aspartame)
This means that implementation of any requirement within a component during the transition period will trigger implementation of all requirements within that component, but will not trigger the application of requirements in other components of the package.
As such, regulated parties can choose to comply with the requirements of one component before another, as long as they comply with all requirements of the package by the end of the transition period, December 31, 2025. Regulated parties that are compliant according to the former regulations will be able to continue using those labels, provided no change has been made to the product until the end of the transition period. This measure gives manufacturers flexibility in managing their label changes.
Transition timeline
Phase I (July 20, 2022 to December 31, 2025)
The coming into force of these amendments marks the beginning of Phase I. CFIA's efforts will be directed towards education and compliance promotion with the new requirements.
Key activities
Phase II (from January 1, 2026)
Phase II will begin after the end of the transition period, from January 1, 2026.
Key activities
Throughout both phases of the implementation plan, the CFIA may take action in cases of inaccurate, false or misleading labelling information and will address food safety issues related to the regulations in these regulatory amendments. Health Canada will conduct health risk assessments in support of CFIA's compliance activities and continue to provide guidance on the interpretation of these regulatory amendments.
