Health Canada’s Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) has shared an important update on its proposed labelling framework for Natural Health Products (NHPs). While the original regulations were expected to come into force in June 2028, recent discussions signal a meaningful shift in both approach and timing.
Although these updates are not yet finalized, and have not entered formal consultation, they provide valuable insight into where the framework is heading.
Why the Change?
Feedback from industry and stakeholders over the past few years has been consistent: the proposed labelling requirements, particularly the Product Facts Table (PFT), are too rigid and difficult to implement in practice.
Key concerns included:
- Limited space and overly prescriptive formatting
- Information overload impacting readability
- Complex and impractical “flexibility” provisions
NNHPD has taken this feedback into account and is now proposing a more flexible, practical approach.
What’s Changing?
- Product Facts Table (PFT) No Longer Mandatory
The most significant updates is that the PFT will no longer be required.
Instead, companies will have flexibility in how information is presented, provided that:
- Key information is easy to find
- Standardized and bolded headings are used
- Minimum readability requirements are met (font size, font type, and background contrast)
The PFT can still be used, but it will be optional rather than mandatory.
- Expanded Use of Digital Labelling
NNHPD is also now going to embrace digital tools to reduce label burden and improve accessibility.
Under the proposed approach:
- Detailed and scientific information about medicinal ingredients (i.e. Latin names, sources and extract ratios) can be provided digitally
- Labels would direct consumers to the digital label via a URL or QR code.
These changes aim to make labels more consumer-friendly while still ensuring access to detailed information.
Important to note, this is a flexibility and not a requirement; information can still remain on the physical label or in a leaflet.
What Else to Expect
Updated Guidance and Consultation
Next steps include:
- Publication of updated guidance in the Canada Gazette 1 (CG1)
- A formal consultation period
- Finalization of regulatory amendments following stakeholder feedback
Extended Timeline
- The June 2028 implementation will be pushed back, although a new timeline has not yet been confirmed.
What This Means for Industry
Overall, this is a shift toward a more flexible, modern labelling framework. The goal is to reduce regulatory burden while maintaining clear, accessible information for consumers.
For companies that have already updated or started updating labels, what you’ve already done is not a waste, these changes just add flexibilities.
Need Support Navigating the Changes?
NNHPD’s evolving approach to labelling presents both opportunities and complexity. Whether you’re reassessing your current labels or planning ahead for upcoming requirements, Dell Tech can help you interpret the changes and stay compliant.
Reach out to our team to learn more.
Blog Author
Jackie Menzies Yarnton
Jackie Menzies Yarnton is a Principal Regulatory Consultant with over 15 years of experience in natural health products, cosmetics, and food regulations in Canada. She is actively involved in advancing regulatory standards through her work with industry organizations.
