Updated as of August 2022
Health Canada recently announced new amendments to the Natural Health Products Regulations, which now include enhanced labelling for priority food allergens. The labelling of these allergens is now required on the labels of products, including vitamins, minerals, probiotics, herbal remedies, homeopathic and traditional medicines; such changes will be seen over the next few years starting in 2025, with full compliance by 2028.
FACT: Health Canada’s food allergen labelling regulations apply to pre-packaged foods. This means that the common name of the priority food allergens, gluten sources (wheat, triticale, barley, rye, oats) and added sulphites must be included on the label of these products if they are used as ingredients. There are new requirements for natural health products like vitamins and minerals, and different requirements for non-food products like skin cream and hair products, pet food, and craft supplies. Since such products can contain food allergens, it’s important to read the label every time and contact the manufacturer if more information is needed.
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