General Front of Pack Information
What is Front-of-package (FOP) Labelling?
Health Canada has introduced new nutrition labelling regulations mandating all pre-packaged foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars, and/or sodium to carry a Front of Pack Label. This labelling regulation features a magnifying glass symbol (see FOP label image below). The purpose of the FOP label is to educate the consumer and direct them to look at the Nutrition Facts Table for more information.
What foods will need to carry the Front-of-package (FOP) label?
Prepackaged foods that are ‘High in’ saturated fat, sugars, and/or sodium will need to carry the FOP label. ‘High in’ is defined as:
- For Most Products: ≥15% Daily Value (DV) for saturated fat, sugar, or sodium for most products
- For Main Dishes: ≥30% DV (reference amount ≥200g);
- For Small Items: ≥10% DV (≤ 30g or ml).
Why is the new Front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbol being introduced?
Health Canada developed the FOP nutrition symbol to help Canadians more easily and quickly identify foods high in saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium when shopping for groceries.
When does Front-of-package (FOP) come into effect?
Effective January 1, 2026, all prepackaged foods must fully comply with the new FOP labelling requirements. However, products that were imported, manufactured in Canada, or packaged at retail before that date can still be sold and remain on store shelves. You may still see products on shelf that don’t have FOP on pack in 2026 while inventory produced prior to the compliance date are sold through.
Where can I find more information about FOP Labelling?
Health Canada has an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions here.
Consumer Questions about FOP Labelling
Are products with Front-of-package (FOP) Labelling safe to consume?
Yes, products with an FOP Label are safe to consume. Nestlé is committed to delivering products that meet the high standards of compliance with local regulations, ensuring their safety and meeting the preferences of our consumers.
The FOP Label is meant to provide consumers with information to help them make informed decisions regarding their food and beverage choices. The FOP Label should be used as a tool to help identify products that are high in saturated fat, sugar, and/or sodium. For more information, consumers can also view the Nutrition Facts Table and ingredient list.
Can you recommend what is a “healthy” portion of an FOP product to consume?
Nestlé believes there is no “one size fits all” recommendation for a healthy diet. The FOP is meant to encourage consumers to take a closer look at the Nutrition Facts Table to better understand how much sugar, sodium, and/or saturated fat a product contains per portion. We encourage you to enjoy our products responsibly and in moderation to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
How are Nestlé products impacted by FOP Labelling?
Many of our confectionary and ice cream products will have FOP Labels. This is to be expected, as these are our more indulgent products to be consumed responsibly and in moderation. All foods can be enjoyed in moderation and can fit within a healthy, balanced and sustainable diet.
Are there alternative options in Nestlé’s product portfolio that are lower in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat content?
We have products in Nestle’s portfolio that do not require FOP and are lower in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat. However, our portfolio of products is ever changing – for the most up-to-date information visit madewithnestle.ca.
