Canada has a new system for providing nutrition information on food labels. Most prepackaged foods will have Nutrition Facts. This is designed so that nutrition information will be easier to find and easier to read. Some products will also carry nutrition claims. Most nutrition claims highlight a specific nutrient in a food, such as fat or fibre. These types of nutrition claims are referred to specifically as nutrient content claims. Some nutrition claims reinforce the role of healthy eating as part of a lifestyle that can reduce the risk of developing a chronic disease, such as heart disease or cancer. These types of nutrition claims are referred to specifically as diet-related health claims.

With effective education, the widespread availability of nutrition information on food labels offers a significant opportunity to improve the nutritional health and well-being of Canadians. The new nutrition information on food labels provides an opportunity to take a fresh approach to healthy eating messages and nutrition programs.

Nutrition Labelling … Get the Facts! series is designed to help communicate consistent and accurate messages to consumers. Each background fact sheet in this series explores nutrition labelling concepts and features, and proposes strategies for maximizing learning opportunities and meeting educational challenges. Key messages, based on consumer research and consultation, are identified and will direct communication to areas where Canadians need more support to better use nutrition information on food labels.

Click here to read about Nutrition labelling: get the facts (35 pgs; Health Canada)