Packaging and labelling guide for cannabis products

Requirements under the Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Regulations

Health Canada is the federal department responsible for helping the people of Canada maintain and improve their health. Health Canada is committed to improving the lives of all of Canada's people and to making this country's population among the healthiest in the world as measured by longevity, lifestyle and effective use of the public health care system.

Disclaimer: This document does not constitute part of the Cannabis Act or its regulations. It should be read in conjunction with the relevant sections of the Act and its regulations. The information in this document is not intended to substitute for, supersede or limit the requirements under the legislation. In the event of discrepancy between the legislation and this document, the legislation shall prevail.

The reader is advised to consult other legislation that may apply to them or their activities, such as applicable provincial or territorial legislation.

This document may be updated from time to time so the reader is encouraged to check back periodically.

The reader is advised to consult other legislation that may apply to them or their activities, such as application provincial or territorial legislation.

This document may be updated from time to time so the reader is encouraged to check back periodically.

On this page

1.0 Purpose

This guide provides guidance and information about the packaging and labelling requirements for cannabis products under the Cannabis Act (also referred to in this guide as "the Act" and abbreviated to CA for references) and the Cannabis Regulations (also referred to in this guide as "the Regulations", and abbreviated to CR for references).

2.0 Background

The Cannabis Regulations sets out requirements pertaining to how cannabis and cannabis products must be packaged and labelled prior to sale, distribution or export. Specifically, the Regulations require plain packaging and labelling for all cannabis products with restrictions on logos, colours, and branding. Cannabis products must be in packaged in a child-resistant container and be labelled with the standardized cannabis symbol, the mandatory health warning message, and include specific product information (e.g., brand name of the cannabis product, class of cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) information, licence holder information). These measures aim to reduce the risks of accidental consumption and overconsumption as well as reduce the appeal of cannabis products to young persons while providing consumers with the information they need to make informed decisions before using cannabis.

Licence holders are responsible for complying with the Act and Regulations, and other legislation that may apply to them or their activities. Health Canada does not review or pre-approve packages and labels of cannabis products.

Health Canada applies a risk-based approach to compliance and enforcement whereby risk pertains to health, safety and the credibility of the regulatory system, among other factors. The Compliance and enforcement policy for the Cannabis Act can be found on Health Canada's website.

3.0 Scope

This guide applies to cannabis products that are sold or distributed in Canada.

Cannabis products do not include cannabis or a cannabis accessory that contains cannabis that is intended for an animal, or a drug containing cannabis.

This guide does not apply to industrial hemp or hemp seed derivatives.

This guide does not apply to shipping containers such as outer wrappings or boxes used to transport cannabis products, or a crate in a transport truck.

The information in this guide is based on the Cannabis Regulations, as amended bythe Regulations Amending the Cannabis Regulations (New Classes of Cannabis) which were published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on June 26, 2019 and will come into force on October 17, 2019. The amended Regulations include transitional provisions related to packaging and labelling. More information is outlined in section 9.0 of this guide.

On its website, Health Canada publishes other guidance documents and information that may be used in conjunction with this guide to support compliance with the Act and its regulations. For consistency and transparency, this guide and other guidance documents and information are updated as required to reflect changes to policies and/or operations.

The examples and figures in this guide are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual cannabis products.

4.0 Definitions and abbreviations

4.1 Definitions

The Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Regulations should be referred to for definitions. The definitions in this section are provided for ease of reference.

Brand element: As defined in the Cannabis Act, includes a brand name, trademark, tradename, distinguishing guise, logo, graphic arrangement, design or slogan that is reasonably associated with, or that evokes,

  1. cannabis, a cannabis accessory or a service related to cannabis; or
  2. a brand of any cannabis, cannabis accessory or service related to cannabis.

Cannabis accessory: As defined in the Cannabis Act, means

  1. a thing, including rolling papers or wraps, holders, pipes, water pipes, bongs and vaporizers, that is represented to be used in the consumption of cannabis; or
  2. a thing that is deemed under subsection 2(3) of the Act to be represented to be used in the consumption of cannabis.

Cannabis product: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations, means cannabis of only one of the classes that are set out in Schedule 4 to the Cannabis Act-or a cannabis accessory that contains such cannabis-after it has been packaged and labelled for sale to a consumer at the retail level. It does not include cannabis that is intended for an animal or a cannabis accessory that contains cannabis that is intended for an animal, or a drug containing cannabis.

Common name: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations for the purposes of its Part 7, in respect to edible cannabis, has the same meaning as in subsection B.01.001(1) of the Food and Drug Regulations.

Common Names for Ingredients and Components Document: The document entitled Common Names for Ingredients and Components, prepared by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and published on its website, as amended from time to time.

Exterior display surface: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations for the purposes of its Part 7, means the area on the exterior surface of an immediate container to which a label is applied and that is visible under customary conditions of purchase or use.

Immediate container: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations, means a container that is in direct contact with cannabis or a cannabis accessory that is a cannabis product or, if a wrapper is in direct contact with the cannabis or the cannabis accessory, with the wrapper.

Label: As defined in the Cannabis Act, includes a legend, word or mark that is, or is to be applied or attached to or included in, or that accompanies or is to accompany, cannabis or a cannabis accessory or a package.

Package: As defined in the Cannabis Act, means any inner or outer container or covering.

Point: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations, means the unit of measurement for type size that is known as a PostScript point and is equal to 0.3527777778 millimetres.

Principal display panel: As defined in the Cannabis Regulations for the purposes of its Part 7, has the same meaning as in subsection 2(2) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations. Specifically it means:

  1. in the case of a container that is mounted on a display card, that part of the label applied to all or part of the principal display surface of the container or to all or part of the side of the display card that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use or to both such parts of the container and the display card,
  2. in the case of an ornamental container, that part of the label applied to all or part of the bottom of the container or to all or part of the principal display surface or to all or part of a tag that is attached to the container, and
  3. in the case of all other containers, that part of the label applied to all or part of the principal display surface

4.2 Abbreviations

CA
Cannabis Act
CBD
cannabidiol
CFIA
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
CR
Cannabis Regulations
EU
European Union
FDA
Food and Drug Act
FDR
Food and Drugs Regulations
g
gram
INCI
International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients
mg
milligram
ml
millilitre
PDP
principal display panel
ppm
parts per million
SFCR
Safe Food for Canadians Regulations
THC
delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
THCA
delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid
TVPA
Tobacco Vaping Products Act
μg/g
microgram per gram

4.3 Icons

The following icons are used in this guide to highlight information of interest.

Important: Key or cautionary information.

Tip: Supplementary information that could be helpful, including references to external documents.

5.0 Prohibitions on packaging and labelling of cannabis

The Cannabis Act and Cannabis Regulations outline a number of prohibitions related to the packaging and labelling of cannabis and cannabis products. Unless authorized under the Act, the prohibitions listed in this subsection apply to all cannabis and cannabis products.

5.1 General prohibitions

Under the Cannabis Act, it is prohibited for a person that is authorized to sell cannabis (or for a person that sells a cannabis accessory) to sell it in a package or with a label:

5.2 Other prohibited representations

The prohibitions listed in this subsection apply to all cannabis products including the package, label or panel of a container.

Under the Regulations, it is prohibited to make an express or implied representation, including by way of a brand element, if there are reasonable grounds to believe that the representation could:

Additionally, for edible cannabis, it is prohibited to make an express or implied representation, including by way of a brand element that would:

Additionally, for cannabis extracts, it is prohibited to display an indication or illustration, including a brand element that could:

5.3 False, misleading or deceptive information

It is prohibited for a person that is authorized to sell cannabis (or for a person who sells a cannabis accessory) to sell it in a package or with a label that contains any information that is false, misleading or deceptive or that is likely to create an erroneous impression about the:

Important: The Act and Regulations set out a series of comprehensive provisions that prohibit certain activities (e.g., packaging and labelling, promotion and sale) with cannabis or a cannabis accessory if there are reasonable grounds to believe the cannabis, cannabis accessory, cannabis product, or service related to cannabis could appeal to young persons. The Policy statement on Cannabis Act prohibitions referring to appeal to young persons provides more information.

6.0 General packaging and labelling requirements

The requirements of the Regulations result in plain packaging and labelling for all cannabis products. This includes restrictions on logos, colours, and branding as well as specific display formats about how product information must appear on the label (e.g., type style, size, and spacing). These measures are designed to:

Plain packaging and labelling applies to all surfaces, including labels and the various types and parts of the package such as containers, wrappers, and coverings (e.g., shrink wrap). Table 1 summarizes the general packaging and labelling requirements.

Table 1: General packaging and labelling requirements
Cannabis Regulations reference Requirement Notes

113
120
123.1(1)(c)

Single uniform colourFootnote 1

  • No fluorescent colours for containers or wrappers, or metallic colours on containers
  • Colour of containers must create a contrast with yellow colour of the health warning message and the red colour of the standardized cannabis symbol
  • Coverings of containers must be transparent and colourless

Colour may be different for each surface (e.g., exterior, interior) and panel. The exterior of any container and the interior surface of immediate containers may be a metallic colour if that surface is made of metal, excluding the label or image.

115
123.1(1)(e)

Smooth textureFootnote 1

  • No raised features for containers and coverings
  • No embossing or decorative ridges for wrappers
  • No other irregularities (e.g., engravings, etchings) for containers and coverings

Does not apply to features necessary to facilitate opening and closing of the container and those to assist persons who are visually impaired.

116(1)
123.1(1)(f)

No hidden features including

  • Heat-activated ink
  • Feature that is visible only through technological means unless, in the case of containers or coverings, it is used to prevent counterfeiting
 

116(2)

No features that can change surface area including

  • Tags
  • Fold-out panels except in the case of a peel-back or accordion panel for a small immediate container. See section 8.3 of this guide.

Does not apply to wrappers.

117
123.1(1)(g)

Not emit scent or sound

 

121

No cut-out windows

Does not apply to coverings or wrappers.

111
118
123.1(1)(a)

No brand element

Subject to specific provisions of the Regulations. See sections 8.1.4 and 8.1.5 of this guide.

112
119
122
123.1(1)(b)
123.1(2)

No image and/or informationFootnote 1

  • No image on any container (interior or exterior surface and panel) in which a cannabis product is packaged
  • No image or information on the covering
  • No image or information on a wrapper

A container may display a bar code but it must only appear once. It must be in a rectangle that is black and white without any other images or designs. A wrapper must display the standardized cannabis symbol. See section 8.1.1 of this guide for more information about the symbol.

18
107
132

No inserts or leafletsFootnote 1

Cannabis products may be accompanied by the document entitled Consumer Information - Cannabis. There is an exception that allows additional information to be included with any shipment, including shipments sent to registered patients.

Tip: Colours that have the lustre of metal or metallic properties include Pantone Metallics or Pantone Premium Metallics. Fluorescent properties include pigments that absorb ultraviolet energy and transmit it as a longer wavelength, such as the Pantone 800 series.

7.0 Packaging requirements

All cannabis products must be packaged in an immediate container. Some products may also have an outer container in addition to the immediate container, while other products may have shrink wraps or wrappers (e.g., foil wrappers around chocolate).

Where a cannabis product has multilayered packaging, all elements must be packaged and labelled according to the regulatory requirements.

In addition to the general packaging and labelling requirements outlined in section 6.0 of this guide, the Regulations also outline specific requirements related to the different parts of a package.

7.1 Immediate container requirements

As mentioned, all cannabis products must be packaged in an immediate container. This container is the part of the package that is in direct contact with the cannabis or the cannabis accessory. The immediate container may also be in direct contact with the wrapper. Table 2 summarizes the immediate container requirements.

Table 2: Immediate container requirements
Cannabis Regulations reference Requirement Notes

1(2)
122.4(1)(b)

Cannot contain more than one class of cannabis

  • As set out in Schedule 4 to the Act

Applies to the outermost container as well.

108(b),(c)
110(a)

Prevent contamination of the cannabis

  • The container must keep dried cannabis and cannabis seeds dry

Does not apply to cannabis plants.

108(a)

Be opaque or translucent

Does not apply to cannabis plants and seeds.

108(e)

Be child resistant

  • Meet the requirements set out in C.01.001(2) to (4) of the FDR

Does not apply to cannabis plants and seeds.

108(d)

Have a security feature

  • Provides reasonable assurance to consumers that the package has not been opened prior to purchase (e.g., security seal)

Does not apply to cannabis plants and seeds.

108(f)
109
110(b)

Not exceed the maximum amount of cannabis

  • Cannot contain more than the equivalent of 30 g of dried cannabis
  • The container holding cannabis plants cannot be flowering or budding at time of packaging and contain more than four plants

With the exception of cannabis plants, refer to Schedule 3 to the Act for equivalency values for different cannabis classes.

96(1)
97(1)
97(2)
101.2
102.7

Not exceed the maximum THC quantity

  • The container holding cannabis topicals or cannabis extracts cannot have a quantity of THC that exceeds 1,000 mg
  • Subject to the variability limits, the container holding edible cannabis cannot have a quantity of THC that exceeds 10 mg
  • Subject to the variability limits, each discrete unit of cannabis intended for ingestion, nasal, rectal, or vaginal use cannot have a quantity of THC that exceeds 10 mg

The quantity of THC mentioned here takes into account the potential to convert THCA into THC.

122.3
122.5

Control measures for cannabis extracts not in discrete units

  • Container must not permit the extract to be easily poured or drunk
  • If the container contains liquid cannabis extract, it cannot contain more than 90 ml
  • If the container contains liquid cannabis extract with greater than 10 mg THC not intended for inhalation, it must have an integrated dispensing mechanism (e.g., pump or metered spray for a bottle) that does not dispense more than 10 mg of THC per activation

The quantity of THC mentioned here takes into account the potential to convert THCA into THC. Cannabis extract in liquid form mentioned here must be at a temperature of 22 ± 2°C.

7.2 Outermost container requirements

The outermost container in which a cannabis product is packaged must not contain:

There are some exceptions to multiple immediate containers for edible cannabis that are further detailed in section 7.4 of this guide.

7.3 Food grade packaging requirements

There are food grade packaging requirements for:

Division 23 of Part B of the FDR, among other things, prohibits the sale of foods in packages that may impart any substance to the contents which may be harmful to the consumer of the food.

Section 186(a)(i),(ii), and (v) to (vii) of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) outline requirements for a package including to be clean, suitable for its intended use, and free from odours that might affect the food [122.2, CR].

Important: Wrappers may only be used if they are required to maintain the quality or stability of the cannabis product.

In these cases, the wrapper must be in direct contact with the cannabis (or the cannabis accessory) and with one or both of the following:

  • The immediate container of the cannabis product
  • A wrapper that in direct contact with the cannabis (or the cannabis accessory) [122.1, CR]

7.4 Co-packaging edible cannabis

The use of multiple immediate containers in an outermost container for edible cannabis is allowed provided that all requirements related to how these containers are packaged and labelled are met [122.4, CR].

Each immediate container must:

The outermost container must:

Tip: There may be requirements pertaining to the use of certain containers (e.g., hazard symbol on pressurized containers). The Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, for instances, should be referred to for more information.

Important: The Government of Canada recognizes that plastic pollution is a growing problem in Canada and around the world.

To help reduce the amount of waste created by cannabis product packaging, the Regulations permit wrappers and peel back-type labels as well as flexibility for packaging materials other than plastics (e.g., cardboard).

Health Canada encourages the use of innovative and environmentally sound packaging approaches, provided the requirements in the Regulations are satisfied.

8.0 Labelling requirements

The Regulations prescribe what, where and how information must appear on the label of all cannabis products. This includes strict requirements on the presentation of information such as type style and size, colours, and spacing.

All information on the label must be:

A label should be either printed on, or securely applied to a package (e.g., as a sticker). It should not fall off or be easily removed during transportation or normal use of the product.

8.1 Required information on the principal display panel of the label

Every label must have a principal display panel (PDP) that must appear on the principal display surface of the container. This is the surface that is displayed or is visible under normal or customary conditions of purchase or use. As defined in section 2 of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations, the PDP of the label may be all or part of the principal display surface.

Table 3: Principal display panel
Part of container that is visible under normal conditions of purchase or use Area of principal display surface

Side or surface

Total area of such side or surface (excluding the top)

No side or surface

Any 40% of the total surface area that can be displayed (excluding the top and bottom)

Lid

Total area of the top surface of the lid

Bag with sides of equal dimensions

Total area of one of the sides

Bag with sides of more than one size

Total area of one of the largest sides

Important: If there are separate PDPs to display English and French information, each PDP of the label must be properly labelled.

The subsections below outline the requirements of the PDP of a label:

8.1.1 Standardized cannabis symbol

The standardized cannabis symbol must be displayed on the PDP of the label and is used to inform and warn consumers that the cannabis product contains THC. It is incorporated by reference as part of the Regulations and must appear on the label of all cannabis products containing THC in a concentration greater than 10 μg/g, taking into account the potential to convert THCA into THC [123(1)(f), 130(5), CR]. A high-resolution format of the standardized cannabis symbol must be downloaded from Health Canada's website: Standardized cannabis symbol

Tip: Documents "Incorporated by reference" are documents not in the text of the regulations that are made part of the regulations. Documents incorporated by reference have the force of law and can be updated from time to time.

Figure 1 - Standardized cannabis symbol
Figure 1
Figure 1 - Text Equivalent

The standardized cannabis symbol is a red octagon. There is a white border on the octagon. Inside the octagon, there is a white cannabis leaf which covers two thirds of the inside of the shape. Underneath the cannabis leaf, one third of the octagon is filled with black and contains the letters THC in a white, bold, uppercase font. There is a dotted line around the octagon to show the outset that is required.

The standardized cannabis symbol is shown in a large size and a smaller size. The text underneath the smaller size says "Minimum size". The minimum dimensions of the symbol shows that it must be at least 1.27 centimetres in width by 1.27 centimetres in height.

The Colours

There is a red square that illustrates the red colour to be used for the standardized cannabis symbol. The description to the right is as follows:

RED
C0 M100 Y92 K0
R235 G0 B41
HTML EB0028
PANTONE 185

There is a black square that illustrates the black colour to be used for the standardized cannabis symbol. The description underneath is as follows:

BLACK
C0 M0 Y0 K100
R0 G0 B0
HTML 000000

There is a white square that illustrates the black colour to be used for the standardized cannabis symbol. The description underneath is as follows:

WHITE
C0 M0 Y0 K0
R255 G255 B255
HTML FFFFFF

  1. White border of at least 2 points on all sides (dotted border shown not required, used to illustrate outset).
  2. Oriented in such a manner that its text is readable from left to right when the container is displayed or visible under the customary conditions of purchase and use.

Note: The standardized cannabis symbol must appear in the upper left 25% of the principal display panel. If the size of the symbol is changed, its dimension must remain proportional vertically and horizontally.

Important: If the size of the symbol is changed, its dimensions must remain proportional vertically and horizontally [130(5)(e), CR].

It is prohibited to display on the label a representation such as an image, sign, mark or symbol that resembles or can be mistaken for the standardized cannabis symbol [131, CR].

8.1.2 Health warning messages

The health warning message must be displayed on the PDP of the label and is comprised of a primary and secondary message in a yellow box to inform and warn consumers of the potential health risks and effects of using cannabis [123(1)(e), 130(6)-(7), CR]. These messages are incorporated by reference as part of the Regulations and can be obtained from Health Canada's website: Cannabis health warning messages

Figure 2 - Cannabis health warning message with attribution (bilingual example)
Figure 2
Figure 2 - Text Equivalent

There is a yellow rectangle that is outlined by a thin black rule. Inside the rectangle, the word "Warning" appears in black, bold, uppercase letters.

After the word warning, the text "It can take up to 4 hours to feel the full effects from eating or drinking cannabis." appears in black, bold, and sentence case letters.

After the last sentence, the text "Consuming more within this time period can result in adverse effects that may require medical attention." appears in black, regular, and mixed case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On a new line, the text "Mise en garde" appears in black, bold, and uppercase letters.

After the words Mise en garde, the text "Cela peut prendre jusqu'à quatre heures pour ressentir tous les effets de la consommation de produits comestibles à base de cannabis." appears in black, bold, and sentence case letters.

After the last sentence, the text "La consommation accrue pendant cette période peut entraîner des effets indésirables qui peuvent nécessiter des soins médicaux" appears in black, regular, and mixed case font.

In the bottom right hand corner of the yellow text box are the words "Health Canada / Santé Canada" in black and mixed-case font type.

Background Colour

There is a yellow square that illustrates the colour to be used for the background of the health warning message. The description underneath is as follows:

YELLOW
C0 M0 Y100 K0
R255 G242 B0
HTML FFF100

  1. Left-justified without hyphenation. The second sentence must be in sentence case letters. Regular weight and width standard sans serif font, without italics, in the colour black and with leading of at least 8 points. Type size of at least 7 points and must be equal to or larger than the type size used for the brand name. Same font type that is used for the information referred to in subsection 130(3) of the Cannabis Regulations.
  2. The word "WARNING" must be in upper case letters and bold type
  3. First sentence must be sentence case letters and bold type
  4. Oriented in such a manner that its text is readable from left to right when the container is displayed or visible under the customary conditions of purchase and use.
  5. Within a black border that is solid line of at least 1 point and has an inset of at least 6 points on all sides between the message and border. If there is one principal display panel, at least 3 points between the English and French message.
  6. Any attribution to the source of the health warning message that is included on the label must meet the following requirements: If there is one principal display panel, the words "Health Canada / Santé Canada", and if there are separate principal display panels, "Health Canada" for the English display panel and "Santé Canada" for the French display panel. Type size of at least 6 points and smaller than the type size used for the health warning message. Same font type that is used for the information referred to in subsection 130(3) of the Cannabis Regulations. Inside the border of the health warning message and be displayed in the bottom right corner below the health warning message text, with leading of at least 7 points.

Note: The health warning message must be displayed on the principal display panel.

Important: An updated list of health warning messages will take effect when the amended Regulations come into force on October 17, 2019.

The health warning messages must be displayed in rotation on each type of container of each brand name of the cannabis product that is packaged in a year, so that each message is displayed, to the extent possible, on equal numbers of containers of that product [123(4), CR]. Cannabis topicals are exempted from this requirement as they have a single health warning message.

8.1.3 THC and CBD content

The unit of measure and whether the THC and CBD content is represented by quantity (mg) or concentration (mg/g) can vary depending on the class of cannabis in the immediate container, whether the cannabis product is in discrete units or not and the intended use of the cannabis product [130(3)(e), CR]. Table 3 summarizes how this information must be displayed on the PDP of the label:

Table 4: Displaying the THC and CBD content
Cannabis Regulations reference Class of cannabis In discrete units Not in discrete units

124
124.1
125

Dried or
fresh cannabis

Not intended for inhalation
THC per unit ## mg
Total THC per unit ## mg
CBD per unit ## mg
Total CBD per unit ## mg

Intended for inhalation
THC ## mg/g
Total THC ## mg/g
CBD ## mg/g
Total CBD ## mg/g

THC ## mg/g
Total THC ## mg/g
CBD ## mg/g
Total CBD ## mg/g

132.1
132.11
132.12

Cannabis extract

Not intended for inhalation
THC per unit ## mg
Total THC per unit ## mg
CBD per unit ## mg
Total CBD per unit ## mg

Intended for inhalation
THC ## mg/g
Total THC ## mg/g
CBD ## mg/g
Total CBD ## mg/g

THC ## mg/g
Total THC ## mg/g
CBD ## mg/g
Total CBD ## mg/g
Additionally, if using a cannabis extract intended for ingestion or rectal or vaginal use, or that is packaged with and is intended to dispense extract:
Total THC per activation ## mg
Total CBD per activation ## mg

132.15
132.16

Cannabis topical

THC per unit ## mg or mg/g
Total THC per unit ## mg or mg/g
CBD per unit ## mg or mg/g
Total CBD per unit ## mg or mg/g

THC ## mg or mg/g
Total THC ## mg or mg/g
CBD ## mg or mg/g
Total CBD ## mg or mg/g

132.18
132.19

Edible cannabis

THC per unit ## mg
Total THC per unit ## mg
THC ## mg
Total THC ## mg
CBD per unit ## mg
Total CBD per unit ## mg
CBD ## mg
Total CBD ## mg

THC ## mg
Total THC ## mg
CBD ## mg
Total CBD ## mg

Note: ## used as a placeholder for numerical values

Figure 3 - THC and CBD content for topical cannabis not in discrete units (bilingual example)
Figure 3
Figure 3 - Text Equivalent

There is a rectangle with a dotted border. The dotted border will not be required to appear on labels, but is used to show the outset that required around the text.

The text inside the rectangle is on 4 lines. The first line reads, THC followed by a placeholder, then by m followed by a comma slash and then g.

The second line reads, Total THC followed by a vertical bar then THC total followed by a placeholder, then by m followed by a common slash and then g.

There is a space between the second and third lines.

The third line reads, CBD followed by a placeholder, then by m, followed by a common slash and then g.

The fourth line reads, Total CBD followed by a vertical bar followed by CBD total followed by a placeholder, then by m followed by a common slash and then g. All text is in black, bold, mixed-case font.

  1. Regular weight and width standard sans serif font in bold, without italics, in the colour black and with leading of at least 7 points
  2. One single font type
  3. At least 6 points away from any other information
  4. White background that extends at least 6 points on all sides away from the information (dotted border shown not required, used to illustrate outset)

Note: The THC and CBD content must be displayed on the principal display panel.
##: a placeholder for numerical values.

Important: Table 2 in section 7.1 of this guide lists the maximum THC quantities allowed in an immediate container by class of cannabis. Additionally, the label of a cannabis product cannot include a total quantity of THC taking into account the potential to convert THCA into THC that exceeds:

  • 10 mg per unit for dried or fresh cannabis or cannabis extract (in discrete units and not intended for inhalation) [124(2), 132.1(2), CR]
  • 10 mg per activation for cannabis extracts in non-discrete units with an integrated dispensing device [132.12(2), CR]
  • 10 mg for edible cannabis [132.18(2), 132.19(2), CR]

The THC and CBD content values displayed on the label must be the values calculated when testing for the levels of cannabinoids. Further requirements related to composition testing are found in sections 90 and 92 of the Regulations as well as the Good production practices guide for cannabis.

8.1.4 Brand name

The brand name of the cannabis product must be displayed on the PDP of the label; however it must not be in metallic or fluorescent colours. It can be in any type style but the type size must be smaller than or equal to the type size used for the health warning message that appears on the label [130(4), CR].

8.1.5 An additional brand element (optional)

Only one other brand element (in addition to the brand name) may be displayed on the PDP of the label. This element could include, for example, a slogan or logo. It must not be in metallic or fluorescent colours.

If the brand element is an image or graphic, the surface area must be smaller than or equal to the surface area of the standardized cannabis symbol that appears on the label.

If the brand element is text only, the type size must be smaller than or equal to the type size used for the health warning message that appears on the label.

For cannabis products containing less than 10 μg/g THC which are not required to display the standardized cannabis symbol, the brand element, if an image, must be smaller than or equal to 25% of the PDP of the label, and smaller than or equal to the surface area of the health warning message that appears on the label [130(9), CR].

8.1.6 International radiation symbol (if applicable)

If edible cannabis is irradiated, the international radiation symbol set out in subsection B.01.035(5) of the FDR with a statement such as "irradiated", "treated with radiation" or "treated by irradiation" must be displayed on the PDP of the label [102.6, 130(11), CR]. The symbol can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) website: Food Irradiation

8.2 Required information about the cannabis product

The Regulations require that all cannabis products be labelled with specific product information, and this information must be displayed on either the PDP or the area of the label that is visible under customary conditions of purchase and use (i.e., the exterior display surface). Table 4 summarizes the required information by class of cannabis.

The information must be presented in both English and French in the following format [130(3)(a)-(d), CR]:

Table 5: Required information about the cannabis product
Cannabis Regulations Reference Requirement Class of cannabis
Cannabis plants or plant seeds Dried or fresh cannabis Cannabis extract Cannabis topical Edible
cannabis

123(1)(a)

Contact information of the licence holder: name, telephone number, email address

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

123(1)(b)

Class of cannabis: one of the classes that are set out in Schedule 4 to the Cannabis Act

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

123(1)(c)(ii)

Lot number: information related to the manufacturing stage of the product; must be preceded by Lot number, Lot no., Lot, or (L) (e.g., Lot 12345)

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

123(1)(c)(iii)

Recommended storage conditions: may refer to elements of temperature, light conditions or humidity (e.g., store in a dry place, avoid direct light)

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

123(1)(c)(iv)

Packaging date: the date the cannabis product was packaged on. It should be the same date as required in the record document [224(2)(b), 225(2)(b), CR]. (e.g., Packaged on 2019 AL 21)

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

105(1)
123(1)(c)(v)
123(2)
123(2.1)
123(3)

Expiry date: the end date of the stability period of the cannabis product, if any, must include at least a month and year (e.g., Expiry date 2019 AL) or a statement that no expiry date has been determined.

Not required

Required

Required

Required

Not required

124(1)(a)
124.1(a)
125(a)
132.1(1)(a)
132.11(a)
132.12(a)
132.15(a)
132.16(a)
132.18(1)(a)
132.19(1)(a)

Net weight of the cannabis: the net weight of cannabis expressed in numerical values followed by grams. (e.g., Net weight 100 g). The net weight must be in the tolerance limits set out in the document entitled Tolerance Limits for the Net Weight and Volume Declared on Cannabis Product Labelling.

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

132.18(1)(a)
132.19(1)(a)

Net volume of the edible cannabis: the net volume of the edible cannabis not in solid form expressed in numerical values followed by millilitres. May be expressed in ml, mL or mℓ. (e.g., Net volume 100 ml). The net volume must be in the tolerance limits set out in the document entitled Tolerance Limits for the Net Weight and Volume Declared on Cannabis Product Labelling.

Not required

Not required

Not required

Not required

Required
(The net volume only if product is not in solid form; net weight in all other cases)

124(1)(b)
124.1(b)
132.1(1)(b)
132.11(b)
132.15(b)
132.18(1)(b)

Number of discrete units, if applicable: (e.g., 10 capsules, 10 chocolates)

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

100
124(1)(c)
124.1(c)
132.1(1)(c)
132.11(c)
132.15(c)

Net weight per discrete unit, if applicable: the net weight of cannabis (in grams) per discrete unit (e.g., 10 g per capsule)

Required

Required
(The net weight per discrete for dried cannabis intended for inhalation cannot exceed 1.0 g)

Required

Required

Not required

123(1)(g)

Cannabis possession statement: "Contains the equivalent of ## g of dried cannabis" where ## is the equivalent quantity of dried cannabis, in grams, as determined in accordance with Schedule 3 to the Act.

Required for cannabis plant seeds but not required for cannabis plants

Required for fresh cannabis but not required for dried cannabis

Required

Required

Required

123(d)

The warning statement: "KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN / TENIR HORS DE LA PORTÉE DES ENFANTS" in upper case font

Required

Required

Required

Required

Required

132.1(1)(j)
132.11(j)
132.12(1)(i)
132.15(i)
132.16(g)
132.18(1)(o)
132.19(1)(j)

Identity by common name of product or its function: generic name of product; may be the name of the cannabis product form (e.g., cream, drops, capsule, chocolate)

Not required

Not required

Required

Required

Required

124(1)(h)
124.1(h)
132.1(1)(k)
132.11(k)
132.12(1)(j)
132.15(j)
132.16(h)

Intended use of cannabis product: intended uses such as for inhalation, ingestion, for use on skin

Not required

Required

Required

Required

Not required

132.2

Durable life date: required for edible cannabis that has a durable life date of 90 days or less, or may be on the label if date is more than 90 days; must include the words "Best before" in the format year-month-day where the year is optional (e.g., Best before 19 JN 28)

Not required

Not required

Not required

Not required

Required

132.1(1)(h)
132.11(h)
132.12(1)(g)
132.15(h)
132.16(f)
132.18(1)(k)
132.19(1)(f)

List of ingredients (and constituents): must show, fully and accurately all of the ingredients in the cannabis product. See sections 8.2.1 to 8.2.5 of this guide.

Not required

Not required

Required

Required

Required

132.1(1)(i)
132.11(i)
132.12(1)(h)
132.18(1)(l)
132.19(1)(g)

Sources of food allergen or gluten, and added sulphites: must be identified in the list of ingredients or in a statement. This includes any cross-contamination statements, if applicable. See section 8.2.6 and 8.2.7 of this guide.

Not required

Not required

Required for allergens only

Not required

Required

132.18(1)(n)
132.19(1)(i)
132.22(3)

Nutrition facts table: must be displayed in the format set out in the document entitled Directory of Nutrition Facts Table Formats for Edible Cannabis. See section 8.2.2 of this guide.

Not required

Not required

Not required

Not required

Required

Tip: The durable life date must use the following bilingual symbols to display months [132.2 (2), CR]. These symbols may be used to display the month in the expiry date and packaging date.

JA : January

FE : February

MR : March

AL : April

MA : May

JN : June

JL : July

AU : August

SE : September

OC : October

NO : November

DE : December

8.2.1 Displaying the list of ingredients on the label

The Regulations prescribe how the list of ingredients must be displayed on the label [130(3)(a)-(d), CR].

8.2.2 Naming ingredients

Cannabis extracts: Ingredients must be listed by their common or chemical name, except for vitamins which must be referred to by their chemical name [132.14(1)(c)(ii)-(iii), CR].

Cannabis topicals: Ingredients must be listed by their INCI names, or if none exists, by their chemical names, or by their EU technical name set out in the schedule of the Cosmetic Regulations. In the case of a botanical ingredient, it must be specified at least by the genus and species portions of its INCI name, or if none exists, by its chemical name [132.17 (1)(c), CR]. For more information on the INCI system, refer to Health Canada's Guide to Cosmetic Ingredient Labelling.

Edible cannabis: Ingredients and their constituents must be listed by their common names, which means the applicable name listed in column II of Table 1 of the Common Names for Ingredients and Components Document. If not listed, for standardized foods, the name printed in boldface type in the Common Names for Ingredients and Components Document; the name prescribed by any other Regulations (e.g., SFCR); or in all other cases, the name by which the food is generally known [132.21(1)(c)(iii), CR].

Common names, chemical names of ingredients and their constituents should not be abbreviated.

8.2.3 Order of ingredients

Ingredients must be separated by a comma and shown in descending order of their proportion by weight before the ingredients are combined to form the final cannabis [132.14(1)(c)(i), 132.17(1)(c), 132.21(1)(c)(i), CR]. For cannabis extracts and cannabis topicals, any ingredient in proportion by weight less of 1% or less may be listed in any order after the ingredients that are present in a proportion of more than 1% [132.14(2), 132.17(2), CR]. Additionally, the following ingredients may be displayed at the end of the ingredients list in any order:

Cannabis extracts: Flavouring agent(s) [132.14 (3), CR]
Cannabis topicals: Fragrance or flavours listed by the term parfum or aroma [132.17(3), CR]
Edible cannabis: Ingredients referred to in B.01.008.2(4) of the FDR such as spices, seasonings, herbs (except salt), sulphites and all of their applicable common names [132.21(3), CR]

There are some ingredients that may be shown collectively in the list such as those set out in column I of Table 2 of the Common Names for Ingredients and Components Document, unless one of the ingredients referred to the table is shown separately in the list of ingredients by its common name [132.21, CR].

Important: Depending on the class of cannabis, there are a number of restricted ingredients for edible cannabis (e.g., meat products, poultry products and fish ingredients), and prohibited ingredients for cannabis extracts (e.g., added caffeine, probiotics, sugars, sweeteners) [101.3(2), CR].

8.2.4 Order and grouping of constituents

Constituents in edible cannabis must be shown in descending order of their proportion of the ingredient by weight before the constituents are combined to form the edible cannabis. Constituents must be shown together after the ingredient's common name in parentheses and be separated by a comma unless the constituents are listed as an ingredient [132.21(1)(c)(i)-(ii), 132.21(1)(d), CR].

Constituents that are required to be shown on the label include:

Constituents that are not required to be shown on the label include:

Constituents that may be shown collectively in the list of ingredients on a label include:

Example 1 - Ordering and grouping of constituents

Ingredients: Tomato paste (tomatoes, salt, benzoic acid), Sugar, Modified corn starch, Lemon juice from concentrate (water, concentrated lemon juice, sugar, benzoic acid), Water, Spices, Salt, Allura red

  • The constituents "tomatoes," "salt" and "benzoic acid" are shown in descending order of proportion by weight after the ingredient "Tomato paste". They are grouped together in parentheses and are separated by a comma. This ordering and grouping of constituents was also applied to the constituents of the ingredient "Lemon juice from concentrate".

Important: The Regulations reference a number of tables in the FDR with respect to edible cannabis. While the Regulations use the term "constituent", and not "component" as per the FDR, the meaning is the same. Specifically, where the Regulations refer to FDR tables, "component" in the FDR tables is to be read as "constituent" [132.21, 132.23, 132.26, CR].

8.2.5 Order and grouping of sugars-based ingredients

Sugars-based ingredients in edible cannabis must be shown in descending order of their proportion by weight. Sugars-based ingredients must be shown together after the term "Sugars" in parentheses and be separated by a comma [132.21(1)(g), CR].

Example 2 - Displaying sugars-based ingredients

Ingredients: Sugars (fancy molasses, brown sugar, sugar), Flour, Vegetable oil shortening, Liquid whole egg, Salt, Sodium bicarbonate, Spices, Allura Red

  • The sugars-based ingredients "fancy molasses," "brown sugar" and "sugar" are grouped together in descending order of proportion by weight. They are shown after the term "Sugars" in parentheses and each sugars-based ingredient is separated by a comma.

Tip: Sugars-based ingredients has the same meaning as in subsection B.01.001(1) of the FDR. The requirement to group sugars-based ingredients under the FDR is intended to help consumers understand their relative proportion in the food compared to other ingredients as well as identify unfamiliar sources of sugars in their foods. For more information on sugars-based ingredients, see CFIA's website: Grouping sugars-based ingredients.

8.2.6 Declaring food allergens, gluten and added sulphites

Food allergens, gluten and added sulphites at levels of 10 parts per million (ppm) that is present in edible cannabis must be declared by their prescribed source name or common name [132.23, 132.21(1)(f), CR]. They must be shown in one of two ways:

  1. In the list of ingredients (see example 3 and 4 below)
  2. In a food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement [132.23(1) and (2), CR] (see example 5 below)

A. List of ingredients

The source of food allergens and gluten must be shown after the ingredient in parentheses, if the source:

However, if the source of allergen or gluten is that constituent, or is present in that constituent, then the source must be shown after the constituent, in parentheses and be separated by a comma [132.21(1)(e)(iii) CR].

Example 3 - Displaying food allergens and gluten in the list of ingredients

Ingredients: Flour (wheat), Liquid albumin (egg), Vegetable oil, Sugar, Chocolate chips (milk) (sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, milk ingredients, soy lecithin, salt, natural flavour).

  • Wheat protein is an inherent part of flour but is not a constituent. Since wheat is both a food allergen and gluten source, it must be declared. Liquid albumin is an egg protein, and, as egg is a food allergen, it must be declared. The constituents of "Chocolate chips" are declared in parentheses after the allergen source milk.

Ingredients: Pastry pieces [flour (wheat), butter (milk), liquid albumin (egg), canola oil], Sugar, Natural flavour.

  • The constituents of "Pastry pieces" must be declared. Furthermore, the food allergen and gluten prescribed source names wheat, milk and egg are declared in parentheses after the constituent.

Added sulphites must be shown in parentheses after the ingredient, of which the sulphites are a constituent; or at the end of the list where they may be shown in any order with the other ingredients that are shown at the end of the list [132.21(1)(f)(iii), CR].

Example 4 - Displaying added sulphites in the list of ingredients

Ingredients: Rolled oats, Flour (wheat), Liquid whole egg, Apricot jam with pectin (sulphites), Salt, Sodium bicarbonate, Soy lecithin

  • Added sulphites are shown parentheses after the ingredient "Apricot jam with pectin."

Ingredients: Rolled oats, Flour (wheat), Liquid whole egg, Apricot jam with pectin, Salt, Sodium bicarbonate, Soy lecithin, Sulphites

  • Sulphites are shown at the end of the list of ingredients in any order.
B. A food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement

The source of food allergens or gluten must be in a food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement if the source:

All food allergens, gluten and added sulphites information must appear in the statement at least once, even if that information is already shown in the list of ingredients [132.25(1)(d), CR].

The statement must show the words "Contains" at the beginning of the list without any intervening written, printed or graphic material and appear on the same continuous surface as the list of ingredients [132.25(1)(a)-(c), CR].

Example 5 - A food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement

Ingredients: Wheat flour, Water, Vegetable oil margarine, Sugar, Yeast, Canola oil shortening, Potato starch, Garlic, Salt, Parsley, Seasoning, Diacetyl acid esters of mono & diglycerides, Whey powder, Calcium propionate, Potassium bisulphite
Contains: Wheat, Milk, Sesame, Sulphites

  • The food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement ("Contains") is shown after the list of ingredients. All food allergens, gluten and added sulphites are declared at least once in the statement, even though wheat and potassium bisulphite (sulphites) already appear in the ingredient list.

8.2.7 Declaring a risk of cross-contamination

Cross-contamination statements may be shown when, due to a risk of cross-contamination, the edible cannabis may contain the source of a food allergen or gluten in edible cannabis product.

These statements must not be used when an allergen or allergen-containing ingredient or constituent is deliberately added to edible cannabis. In these cases, the mandatory food allergen and gluten statement, as outlined in section 8.2.6 of this guide, is required.

The cross-contamination statement must be displayed after the food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphites statement, or, if there is none, after the list of ingredients. It must appear on the same continuous surface as the list of ingredients and the gluten source and added sulphites statement if there is one. It must not contain any intervening printed, written or graphic material between it and the list of ingredients or statement that immediately precedes it [132.24, CR].

Example 6 - A cross-contamination statement

Ingredients: White beans, Water, Sugars, Pork, Salt, Modified cornstarch, Onion powder, Mustard, Spices.
Contains: Mustard
May contain: Sesame, Soybeans

  • The cross-contamination statement "May contain" is shown after the list of ingredients and after the food allergen source, gluten source and added sulphite statement.

Tip: Cannabis products containing cannabis extracts must include on the label any food allergens [132.11(i), 132.12(1)(h), CR]. While there are no specific display formats to declare these allergens, licence holders may consider following a similar format to the one listed here to declare food allergens for edible cannabis.

Important: A gluten-free claim or a claim pertaining to the absence of a specific food allergen source is permitted on the label provided that the claim is factual and not misleading. General claims stating only "allergen-free" or "no allergens" are considered to be too broad in nature and are therefore not acceptable. Refer to CFIA's guidance on gluten-free and allergen-free claims for more information.

Health Canada has no specific thresholds for gluten in cannabis products but considers levels of gluten protein below 20 ppm of not posing any health risks to consumers with celiac disease. Refer to Health Canada's Position on Gluten-Free Claims for more information.

8.2.8 Nutrition facts table for edible cannabis

The nutrition facts table must be shown for all edible cannabis products [132.18(1)(n), 132.19(1)(i), CR]. The specific information and display format are shown in Figure 4 [132.22, CR]. The presentation of the table is incorporated by reference as part of the Regulations and can be found on Health Canada's website: Directory of Nutrition Facts Table Formats for Edible Cannabis

Figure 4 - Nutrition facts table (bilingual example)
Figure 4
Figure 4 - Text Equivalent

Left justified at the top of the table is the heading Nutrition Facts followed by a common slash followed by Valeur nutritive all in bold.

The next line is Per container followed by a common slash followed by Par contenant followed by an open and close parenthesis that contains a placeholder.

The next line is Calories in bold followed by a placeholder, also in bold, for the amount of Calories per container of the product. Right justified on the same line is the subheading percent symbol DV followed by a common slash followed by percent symbol VQ. Percent DV and VQ have an asterisk to the right that refers to a footnote at the bottom of the Nutrition Facts Table.

Left justified on the next line is Fat followed by a common slash followed by Lipides followed by a placeholder for the amount of fat followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for the percent Daily Value of fat followed by a percent symbol.

Indented on the next line under Fat is Saturated followed by a common slash followed by saturés followed by a placeholder for the amount of saturated fat followed by a lowercase g.

Indented on the next line under Saturated is a plus symbol followed by Trans followed by a common slash followed by a plus symbol followed by trans followed by a placeholder for the amount of trans fat followed by a lowercase g.

There is a placeholder for the combined percent Daily Value for saturated and trans fat which is right justified and vertically centred against the saturated and trans information on the left. It is followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Carbohydrate followed by a common slash followed by Glucides followed by a placeholder for the amount of carbohydrate followed by a lowercase g.

Indented on the next line under Carbohydrate is Fibre followed by a common slash followed by Fibres followed by a placeholder for the amount of fibre followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for percent Daily Value of fibre followed by a percent symbol.

Indented on the next line under Fibre is Sugars followed by a common slash followed by Sucres followed by a placeholder for the amount of sugars followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for the percent Daily Value of sugars followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Protein followed by a common slash followed by Protéines followed by a placeholder for the amount of protein followed by a lowercase g.

The next line is Cholesterol followed by a common slash followed by Cholestérol followed by a placeholder for the amount of cholesterol followed by mg in lowercase.

The next line is Sodium followed by a placeholder for the amount of sodium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for the percent Daily Value of sodium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Potassium followed by a placeholder for the amount of potassium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for percent Daily Value of potassium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Calcium followed by a placeholder for the amount of calcium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for the percent Daily Value of calcium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Iron, followed by a common slash followed by Fer followed by a placeholder for the amount of iron followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is a placeholder for the percent Daily Value of iron followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is a space before the next line.

The next line after the space is the statement Not a significant source of. This is followed by an open and close parenthesis that contains three periods followed by a common slash.

The next line is the statement Source négligeable de. This is followed by an open and close parenthesis that contains three periods.

Indented on the next line under the statement Source négligeable de is an asterisk followed by DV followed by an equal symbol followed by Daily Value followed by a common slash. This is the Daily Value footnote that was referred to at the beginning of the table description.

Indented on the next line is an asterisk followed by VQ followed by an equal symbol followed by valeur quotidienne. This is the Daily Value footnote that was referred to at the beginning of the table description. This is the end of the Nutrition Facts Table.

  1. Heading: Bold type
  2. Calories: Bold type
  3. Indented nutrients
  4. Non-indented nutrients
  5. Statement: Permitted, not required to appear in the nutrition facts table
  6. Black border that is a solid line of 1 point that has an inset of at least 6 points on all sides
  7. Value centred against saturated + trans information on left
  8. Space between number and unit
  9. Space between number and % sign

8.3 Required information on small immediate containers

All immediate containers holding a cannabis product, regardless of the container's size, must display the required information (e.g., standardized cannabis symbol, health warning message, THC and CBD content, and brand name) on the PDP of the label [130(1), CR].

However, if the immediate container is too small to fit the other required product information (e.g., class of cannabis, packaging date, list of ingredients) on the PDP or the area of the label that is visible under customary conditions of purchase and use (i.e., the exterior display surface), an accordion or peel-back panel, or a label that extends beyond the display surface may be used to display this required information [132.27, CR].

In this case, the panel must meet the requirements outlined in section 132.27 of the Regulations including:

Additionally, the label must include a statement regarding the location of the information that is not included on the label (e.g., the words lift panel). It may also include a black and white image to provide instructions on how to open the panel [132.27(6) and (7), CR].

Table 6 summarizes what and where the required information must be displayed for small immediate containers if using a peel-back panel. Refer to Table 5 in section 8.2 of this guide for details on each requirement.

Table 6: Required information for small immediate containers
Cannabis Regulations Reference May be displayed on the peel-back or accordion panel, or the exterior display surface Must be displayed on the exterior display surface

123(1)(a),(c)(ii),(d)
124(1)(b)
124.1(b)
124(1)(h)
124.1(h)
132.1(1)(b)
132.1(1)(j)
132.1(1)(k)
132.11(b)
132.11(k)
132.11(j)
132.12(1)(i)
132.12(1)(j)
132.15(b)
132.15(i)
132.15(j)
132.16(g)
132.16(h)
132.18(1)(b)
132.18(1)(o)
132.19(1)(j)
132.27(3)(c)(i)-(x)
132.27(8)-(9)

  • Class of cannabis
  • Recommended storage conditions
  • Packaging date
  • Net weight in grams or volume, as applicable
  • Net weight per discrete unit, if applicable
  • Cannabis possession statement
  • Expiry date or a statement that no expiry date determined
  • List of ingredients
  • Durable life date
  • Name of any food allergen
  • Sources of food allergen or gluten, and added sulphites
  • Nutrition facts table
  • Quantity of THC and CBD dispensed per activation, if applicable
  • Contact information of the licence holder
  • Lot number
  • Brand name
  • Number of discrete units, if applicable
  • The warning "KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN / TENIR HORS DE LA PORTÉE DES ENFANTS"
  • Health warning message
  • Standardized cannabis symbol
  • Quantity of THC, total THC, CBD, total CBD in mg per gram or in mg per unit, as applicable
  • Identity by common name of product or its function, as applicable
  • Intended use
  • Bar code, optional
  • An additional brand element other than the brand name, optional (if image, size must be smaller or equal to 1.27 cm by 1.27 cm; if text only, type size must be smaller or equal to 7 points)

8.4 Other information about the cannabis product

Licence holders should provide additional product information regarding the proper use of their cannabis products. This information could include:

Any additional information (e.g., composition information such as cannabis terpenes or other cannabinoids; strain name, percentage of THC and CBD content for dried cannabis) that is included on the label must comply with the Cannabis Act and its regulations.

Other warnings and precautions outside the Regulations that are specific to the product should also be included on the label.

For example, the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist is an administrative tool that Health Canada uses to communicate to manufacturers and others that certain substances may be prohibited or restricted for use in cosmetics. While prohibited ingredients should not be used, restricted ingredients are permitted only if the conditions of use and/or cautionary statement(s) are met. Cannabis products containing these ingredients may be considered injurious to the health of the user of a cannabis product under the Regulations depending on the nature and intended use of the particular product. Health Canada strongly encourages licence holders to make use of the Hotlist when looking to determine whether cautionary statements are appropriate for a particular ingredient when used in cannabis topicals.

If other product information is displayed, it must be in the following format [130(8), CR]:

Important: Licence holders are responsible for providing appropriate directions for use and cautions about their cannabis products. They are also responsible for complying with the Act and Regulations, and other federal and provincial legislation that may apply to them or their activities.

Health Canada has a number of tools at its disposal, including ministerial orders for provision of information, measures, tests and studies, and recalls that could be used if considered necessary to address an issue of public health or public safety and/or to verify compliance or prevent non-compliance, as the case may be.

8.5 Labelling cannabis other than a cannabis product

Cannabis that does not meet the definition of a cannabis product, such as cannabis that is sold intra-industry or bulk cannabis for export that will be packaged and labelled at the destination jurisdiction, must be labelled with the following information:

9.0 Transition period for packaging and labelling

The Cannabis Regulations as amended by the Regulations Amending the Cannabis Regulations (New Classes of Cannabis) include transitional provisions related to packaging and labelling.

Below is a summary of key milestones and dates:

On October 17, 2019 (Addition of cannabis extracts, cannabis topicals, and edible cannabis as classes of cannabis)

Cannabis extracts, cannabis topicals and edible cannabis will be added as classes of cannabis to Schedule 4 to the Act. The amended Regulations come into force.

From October 17, 2019, to 2020 (12 month transition period)

Licence holders who were authorized to conduct certain activities under the Regulations prior to October 17, 2019, will have until October 17, 2020, to adjust and align with the new packaging and labelling requirements.

Certain cannabis products (i.e., cannabis plant seeds, cannabis plants, dried cannabis, and fresh cannabis) may continue to be sold and distributed if they are packaged and labelled under certain conditions in accordance with the Regulations as they read immediately before the day on which the amendments come into force:

For cannabis oils, licence holders, provincial/territorial retailers and other authorized persons are exempted from the application of the Regulations if they were previously authorized and the activities are conducted in accordance with the Regulations as they read immediately before October 17, 2019.

On October 17, 2020 (Removal of cannabis oil as a class of cannabis)

Cannabis oil will no longer exist as a class of cannabis from Schedule 4 to the Act. While cannabis oil will cease to exist as a standalone class of cannabis on this date, cannabis oil products will continue to be permitted for sale within the new classes of cannabis (i.e., cannabis extracts, cannabis topicals, and edible cannabis).

October 17, 2020, and beyond

Only persons other than the licence holder are authorized to continue depleting their inventory under certain conditions.

10.0 Contact us

If you have general questions about the Cannabis Act and its regulations, you can reach Health Canada by email cannabis@canada.ca or phone at 1-866-337-7705.

11.0 Feedback-Help us improve

Health Canada is committed to providing all stakeholders with timely, accurate and reliable information. This includes providing information needed to comply with the Cannabis Act and its regulations. We would appreciate receiving your feedback on whether this guide was useful, and we welcome your suggestions for improvement. Email your feedback to us at cannabis@canada.ca and indicate in the subject line Feedback on the Packaging and labelling guide for cannabis products.

Appendix A: A cannabis product that meets the packaging and labelling requirements

An example of edible cannabis in discrete units

  1. The standardized cannabis symbol
  2. The brand name of the cannabis product
  3. THC and CBD content
  4. Health warning message
  5. Other brand element
  6. Other required information about the cannabis product
  7. Non-required information about the cannabis product
  8. Nutrition facts table
  9. List of ingredients
  10. Bar code
Figure 5
Figure 5a Figure 5b
Figure 5 - Text Equivalent

1. There is an image of a plastic bag with a resealable top and a child resistant fastener. The bag is black.

On the top left corner is the standardized cannabis symbol. The standardized cannabis symbol is a red octagon. There is a white border on the octagon. Inside the octagon, there is a white cannabis leaf which covers two thirds of the inside of the shape. Underneath the cannabis leaf, one third of the octagon is filled with black and contains the letter THC in a white, bold font. The letters appear in all capital letters.

On the top right corner is a green, diamond shaped symbol with the word "Logo" written inside. The text is white, mixed-case font.

Underneath the cannabis symbol and the logo symbol is the text "BRAND NAME" and "MARQUE NOMINATIVE" and it appears in green, bold, uppercase font.

There is a white rectangle with 8 lines of text inside.
The first line is THC per unit followed by a vertical bar then THC par unité 5 mg
The second line is Total THC per unit followed by a vertical bar then THC total par unité 5 mg.
The third line is THC 10 mg.
The fourth line is Total THC followed by a vertical bar then THC total 10 mg.
There is a space between the fourth and fifth line.
The fifth line is CBD per unit followed by a vertical bar then CBD par unité 2 mg.
The sixth line is Total CBD per unit followed by a vertical bar then THC total par unité 2 mg".
The seventh line is CBD 4 mg.
The eighth line of is Total CBD followed by a vertical bar then CBD total 4 mg. All text is in black, bold, mixed-case font.

Under the white rectangle, there is a yellow rectangle that is outlined by a thin black rule. Inside the rectangle the word "Warning" appears in black, bold, uppercase text.

After the word warning, the text "The effects from eating or drinking cannabis can be long-lasting." appears in black, bold, mixed-case text.

After the last sentence, the text "The effects can last between 6 and 12 hours following use." appears in black, regular, mixed-case font.

On a new line, the text "Mise en garde" appears in black, bold, uppercase text. After the words mise en garde, the text "Les effets de la consommation de produits comestibles à base de cannabis peuvent être de longue durée." appears in black, bold, mixed-case text.

After the last sentence, the text "Les effets peuvent durer de six à douze heures après la consommation." appears in black, regular, mixed-case font.

2. There is an image of a plastic bag with a resealable top and a child resistant fastener. The bag is black.

There is a white rectangle. The text on the first line inside the rectangle is Edible cannabis followed by a common slash and then Cannabis comestible in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is 2 cookies followed by a common slash and then 2 biscuits in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is Contains the equivalent of 5.3 g of dried cannabis followed by a common slash in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is Contient l'équivalent 5,3 g de cannabis séché in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is Net weight 80 g followed by a common slash and then Poids net 80 g in black, mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line is Store in dry place followed by a common slash and then Entreposer dans un endroit sec in black, mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line is KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN in black, uppercase font.

On the next line is TENIR HORS DE LA PORTÉE DES ENFANTS in black, uppercase font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line is Packaged on followed by a common slash and then Emballé le 2019 AL 21 in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is Best before followed by a common slash and then Meilleur avant le 2019 JN 21 in black, mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line is Name of licence holder followed by a common slash and then Nom du titulaire de licence in black, mixed-case font.

On the next line is 123-456-7890 followed by a common slash and then name-nom@company-compagnie.ca in black, mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line is Lot 123456 in black, mixed-case font.

Under the white rectangle is the text "When consuming edible cannabis, wait to feel the effects first before taking more." followed by a common slash and then the text "Lorsque vous consommez du cannabis comestible, attendez d'en ressentir les effets avant d'en consommer davantage." in white, mixed-case font.

There a white rectangle box on the left side of the bag. Left justified at the top of the table is the heading Nutrition Facts followed by a common slash followed by Valeur nutritive all in bold.

The next line is Per container followed by a common slash followed by Par contenant followed by an open parentheses followed by 80 g and then a close parentheses.

The next line is Calories in bold followed by 140, also in bold, for the amount of Calories per container of the product. Right justified on the same line is the subheading percent symbol DV followed by a common slash followed by percent symbol VQ. Percent DV and VQ have an asterisk to the right that refers to a footnote at the bottom of the Nutrition Facts Table.

Left justified on the next line is Fat followed by a common slash followed by Lipides followed by a 5 for the amount of fat followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line is 13 for the percent Daily Value of fat followed by a percent symbol.

Indented on the next line under Fat is Saturated followed by a common slash followed by saturés followed by 2.5 for the amount of saturated fat followed by a lowercase g.

Indented on the next line under Saturated is a plus symbol followed by Trans followed by a common slash followed by a plus symbol followed by trans followed by a 0 for the amount of trans fat followed by a lowercase g.

There is a 13 for the combined percent Daily Value for saturated and trans fat which is right justified and vertically centred against the saturated and trans information on the left. It is followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Carbohydrate followed by a common slash followed by Glucides followed by 22 for the amount of carbohydrate followed by a lowercase g.

Indented on the next line under Carbohydrate is Fibre followed by a common slash followed by Fibres followed by 0 for the amount of fibre followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line is 0 for percent Daily Value of fibre followed by a percent symbol.

Indented on the next line under Fibre is Sugars followed by a common slash followed by Sucres followed by 12 for the amount of sugars followed by a lowercase g. Right justified on the same line 12 for the percent Daily Value of sugars followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Protein followed by a common slash followed by Protéines followed by 1 for the amount of protein followed by a lowercase g.

The next line is Cholesterol followed by a common slash followed by Cholestérol followed by 0 for the amount of cholesterol followed by mg in lowercase.

The next line is Sodium followed by 80 for the amount of sodium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is 3 for the percent Daily Value of sodium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Potassium followed by 50 for the amount of potassium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is 1 for percent Daily Value of potassium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Calcium followed by 0 for the amount of calcium followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is 0 for the percent Daily Value of calcium followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is Iron, followed by a common slash followed by Fer followed by 0.75 for the amount of iron followed by mg in lowercase. Right justified on the same line is 4 for the percent Daily Value of iron followed by a percent symbol.

The next line is a space before the next line.

Indented on the next line is an asterisk followed by DV followed by an equal symbol followed by Daily Value followed by a common slash. This is the Daily Value footnote that was referred to at the beginning of the table description.

Indented on the next line is an asterisk followed by VQ followed by an equal symbol followed by valeur quotidienne. This is the Daily Value footnote that was referred to at the beginning of the table description. This is the end of the Nutrition Facts Table.

There is a white rectangle box on the lower right side of the bag. Inside the rectangle, the word Ingredients is followed by a colon appears in black and mixed-case font. After the word Ingredients, the word Flour appears followed by a comma, and word Liquid albumin followed by a comma, the word Vegetable oil appears followed by a comma, the word Sugar appears followed by a comma, the words Chocolate chips followed by an open parentheses with the word sugar followed by a comma, the words chocolate liquor followed by a comma, the words cocoa butter followed by a comma, the words milk ingredients followed by a comma, the words soy lecithin followed by a comma, the word salt followed by a comma, the words natural flavour, followed by a closed parentheses. All text appears in black and mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line, the word Contains follows by a colon appears in black, mixed-case font. After the words contains, the word Wheat followed by a comma, the word eggs followed by a comma, and finally the word milk appears in black and mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

One the next line, the word Ingrédients follows by a colon appears in black and mixed-case font. After the word Ingredients, the word Farine appears followed by a comma, the words Albumine liquide followed by a comma, the words Huile végétale appears followed by a comma, the word Sucre appears followed by a comma, the words Brisures de chocolat followed by an open parentheses with the words sucre followed by a comma, the words cacao liquide followed by a comma, the words beurre de cacao followed by a comma, the words substances laitières followed by a comma, the words lécithine de soja followed by a comma, the word sel followed by a comma, and the words arome naturel, followed by a closed parentheses. All text appears in black and mixed-case font.

The next line is a space before the next line.

On the next line, the word Contient follows by a colon appears in black, mixed-case font. After the word Contient, the word Blé followed by a comma, the word oeufs followed by a comma, and finally the word lait appears in black and mixed-case font. This is the end of the List of Ingredients.

Under the List of Ingredients, at the bottom right corner is an example of a black and white image of a bar code.

Page details

Date modified: