Labeling Products - Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to include on my label?
In Canada, food products are regulated through the Canadian Foods Inspection Agency. Requirements vary depending on the marketing channel used to sell the product and the nature of the food. All products, which are prepackaged and distributed for sale at the retail level, must be labeled according to federal guidelines. They require:

The common name of the product
A net quantity declaration
The name and address of responsible party
A list of ingredients in descending order of amount
The durable life date, if shelf life is 90 days or less
Storage instruction, when needed
Bilingual, unless specifically exempt
Nutritional information

The following links will give you more detailed information.
Business Basics for Alberta Food Processors: Packaging and Labeling
Guide For Food Labeling and Advertising

Do I need to have a Universal Product Code on my label?
Whether or not you include a Universal Product Code (UPC) on your product will depend on where you are selling your product. Most retail establishments will require that you have a UPC machine readable code. UPC gives a unique bar code to every product, which makes product identification and retail inventory management simpler and more accurate. More detailed information is available through the link below.
Business Basics for Alberta Food Processors: Packaging and Labeling

Where can I find information on new "Nutritional Facts" labeling?
Nutritional Facts labelling is required for most processed foods sold through retail stores. "Nutritional Facts" label will allow consumers to compare products more easily, assess the nutritional value of more foods and better manage special diets. Further information can be obtained from the Canadian Foods Inspection Agency.
Guide For Food Labeling and Advertising
Health Canada Nutrition Labelling

Prepared by Kathy Bosse, Ag-Info Centre, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry

For more information about the content of this document, contact Kathy Bosse.
This document is maintained by Marie Glover.
This information published to the web on November 27, 2003.
Last Reviewed/Revised on May 17, 2018.