Considerations for selecting an appropriate Nutrition Facts table
Although the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) require the declaration of a Nutrition Facts table (NFt) on most prepackaged products, the information may be presented in a variety of different formats. Industry has considerable flexibility in presentation, and may choose from several different format "families". Within each format family, further choices of presentation style are available. For example, manufacturers may opt for separate French and English tables (including a narrow variation in the case of the standard format) or choose to use a single bilingual table.
The specific format chosen and the size of Nutrition Facts table are based on a combination of mandatory and voluntary considerations.
First consideration: Who will buy the product
There are major differences in the nutrition labelling requirements depending upon who is consuming or buying the product. Basically, for the purposes of nutrition labelling there are 3 classes of foods:
The 2 last classes of foods have specific requirements associated with them. The appropriate sections provide further information.
Second consideration: On what basis will the information be presented
In the majority of cases, nutrition information is presented on the basis of a serving of food as sold. However, nutrition information for specific forms of coffee (whole or ground beans and pods) and tea (dry loose leaves, bags and pods) must be provided in the Nutrition Facts table on an "as consumed" basis, rather than on an "as sold" basis. These forms of coffee and tea are not consumed in their "as sold" form. They are percolated, brewed, infused or steeped in water and the original food (grounds or leaves) is then discarded and only the liquid is consumed. Issues related to serving size are discussed in the Information within the Nutrition Facts table page.
However, in certain circumstances, the manufacturer is provided with other presentation options. For example, nutrition information may be provided for a food in more than 1 amount (2 cookies, 1 cookie), or for individual foods in a multi-pack (crackers and cheese). As well, information for the food as sold (such as a cold cereal) may differ from information about the food as prepared (cereal with milk).
Sections B.01.401(6), B.01.401(6.1), B.01.403(5) and B.01.406 of the FDR outline the conditions under which the various options for the presentation of nutrition information may be used. In some cases the manner of presenting information is mandatory, while in other cases it is at the discretion of the manufacturer.
The manner of presenting nutrition information directly affects the choice of Nutrition Facts table format.
Third consideration: What format is required
The steps involved in choosing an NFt format are set out in the section Steps for choosing a Nutrition Facts table.
Steps for choosing a Nutrition Facts table
Step 1: Measure the available display surface of your package
The Nutrition Facts table is not required to occupy more than 15% of the available display surface (ADS) of a package, except in the case of smaller packages.
For information on calculating the ADS of the package, see the Available display surface page. When calculating the space occupied by the Nutrition Facts table, remember the following 3 principles:
the area occupied by the Nutrition Facts table is based on mandatory information only, that is, the core nutrients and triggered additional information
when calculating the area occupied by the table, do not consider the space occupied by voluntarily disclosed additional information
however, do consider the area of both the English and the French tables when separate unilingual tables are used
Certain rules may apply with respect to formats for specific packaging cases:
if the ADS is equal to or greater than 200 cm2, the product is sold only in the retail establishment where it is packaged and the package is labelled with a sticker, please refer to the Retail packages ≥ 200 cm2 available display surface section
Step 2: Choose a Nutrition Facts table format family
Sections B.01.454 to B.01.459 of the FDR set out "families" of formats. Each family provides format options for presenting nutrition information in a specific manner, as mentioned above. For example, the standard/horizontal/linear family provides format options for presenting nutrition information for a single serving of food as sold, while the "Dual format – Foods requiring preparation" family provides options for presenting nutrition information for the food as sold and as prepared.
The table below titled "Which Nutrition Facts table format family should I use" is a tool for selecting the appropriate format family for a prepackaged product. Once the appropriate family is determined, the decision tree diagrams provide guidance on the specific template that should be chosen.
most foods (for example, carton of milk, prepackaged loaf of white bread)
prepackaged product containing an assortment of similar foods, where a serving consists of more than 1 food (for example, box of chocolates, tray of mixed nuts), declared as a single composite value [B.01.406(4), FDR]
prepackaged product containing an assortment of similar foods, where 1) serving consists of only 1 of the foods, and 2) information for serving size, energy and core nutrients is the same for all individual items (for example, multi-pack of frozen popsicles) [B.01.406(3)(b), FDR].
prepackaged products containing an assortment of foods of the same type, where a typical serving consists of more than 1 food, declared as separate values for each food (for example, box of assorted chocolates, tray of mixed nuts) [B.01.406(4), FDR]
package containing separately packaged ingredients or foods that are intended to be eaten together (for example, cheese and cracker snack kit, taco kit) [B.01.406(2), FDR]
prepackaged product containing an assortment of foods of the same type, where 1) serving consists of only 1 of the foods, and 2) information for serving size, energy and core nutrients is different for all individual items (for example, variety pack of granola bars or chocolate bars) [B.01.406(3)(a), FDR]
cases where it is suitable to provide nutrition information for a food in more than 1 amount, to reflect different uses or different units of measurement of a food (for example, 2 slices and 1 slice of bread)
not applicable (always optional)
apple sauce may be used both as a fruit [1/2 cup (125 mL)] and a condiment [1 tbsp (15 mL)]
cases where it is suitable to provide nutrition information for a food in more than 1 amount, to reflect different uses or different units of measurement of a food (for example, 3 bite-size muffins and 1 bite-size muffin)
not applicable (always optional)
evaporated milk may be used in small quantities to whiten coffee [1 tbsp (15 mL), or may be reconstituted and used as a beverage [1/2 cup (125 mL)]
in the case of bite-size muffins, 3 muffins and 1 muffin
Step 3: Choose the appropriate Nutrition Facts table using decision trees
The decision trees for each family of formats provide a stepwise strategy to determine an appropriate format and version (size) of the Nutrition Facts table. In each decision tree:
the first level options provide the most desirable alternatives – the largest and most readable formats
the second and third level options provide decreasingly favourable options with respect to readability and size
The manufacturer must start at the top of the tree and work their way down.
All selections in the first level options must be exhausted before second level options may be considered. Likewise, all second level options must be exhausted before proceeding to any third level options.
At the first level, the manufacturer is provided with the choice of different options, such as separate French and English tables (including a narrow variation in the case of the standard format) or a single bilingual table. For each format variation, a number of different sizes are provided.
For example, the decision tree for standard/horizontal/linear formats begins by laying out the first level options:
First level options
Standard
or
Narrow standard
or
Bilingual standard
Once the format variation has been chosen, the largest version of that format must be used unless:
it requires more than 15% of the available display surface (ADS), the space available on the package to carry labelling information, or
it does not fit on 1 continuous surface of the package
If this is the case, then the next version should be used unless it also requires more than 15% of the ADS or does not fit on 1 continuous surface, and so on.
The largest version of the chosen format must be selected that meets these criteria.
For example, if the manufacturer chose the standard format (format 1), they must choose the largest Nutrition Facts table variation that fits (figure 1.1 is the largest variation; figure 1.6 is the smallest.)
However, if none of the size variations of format 1 (figures 1.1 to 1.6) will work on the package, then the manufacturer must examine other first level options: the narrow standard format (format 2) and the bilingual standard format (format 3). The manufacturer cannot proceed to the next level in the decision tree until all first level options have been exhausted.
At the lowest level (where packages and Nutrition Facts tables are small), any format variation and any version in the family may be chosen provided that it fits on 1 continuous surface and that the characters printed in the table do not touch each other or the lines (rules).
Notes of explanation
This stepwise approach to choosing a Nutrition Facts table ensures the following basic premises are fulfilled:
certain formats are more desirable than others because they are more legible. They must always be given first consideration. For example, variations of the standard format (standard, narrow standard, bilingual standard) must always be considered before the bilingual horizontal format
the largest version of a designated format that will fit within 15% of the ADS and on 1 continuous surface of the package must be chosen before proceeding to a smaller version and all options in 1 level must be exhausted before proceeding to the next level
Standard, horizontal and linear formats [B.01.454, FDR]
Purpose: The standard, horizontal and linear formats present nutrition information for 1 serving of food as sold.
These products usually provide nutrition information for 1 serving of food as sold, using a standard, horizontal or linear format.
Standard, horizontal, linear: hierarchy of formats decision tree
Major distinguishing features of the standard, horizontal and linear formats
Standard format
Vertical display of nutrition information
Unilingual French and English formats, narrow format and bilingual format
1 serving size declaration for the food as sold, expressed in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Complete nutrition information [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)] for 1 serving of food as sold
Core information is declared (Calories and 12 nutrients)
% DV interpretative statement is mandatory
Additional information is optional
Bilingual horizontal format
Horizontal display of nutrition information
Bilingual format only, no unilingual tables
Displays the same information as the standard formats
Use of the bilingual horizontal format is limited
The second level options, bilingual horizontal format figures 4.1 and 4.2, are in the same size range as some of the first level options. These formats may only be used when:
there is no continuous panel on the label that would accommodate any NFt listed among the first level options (standard 1.1 to 1.6, narrow standard 2.1 to 2.4, or bilingual standard 3.1 to 3.4), and/or
manipulating the container to read a first level option printed sideways on the side panel or bottom of the package would result in leakage or damage to the product
This open-window pie box is a candidate for the bilingual horizontal format, as placing a standard format on the side or bottom of the package would result in the product being damaged when the consumer turned the package over or sideways to view the NFt.
This product illustrates incorrect use of the bilingual horizontal format. This box will accommodate a first level option, that is, standard, narrow standard or bilingual standard formats.
Linear format
Linear display of information (no columns of information)
Unilingual formats only
Displays the same information as the standard formats
Limited use as it falls in third level of the decision tree (lowest level). It is generally used for small packages and packages with very small areas of continuous available display surface. However, it may also be used when the package configuration prevents the use of larger Nutrition Facts tables as only small areas of continuous space exist
While the total ADS of this package is significant, because of the configuration, only third level options will fit, for example, linear, alternate methods of presentation.
Simplified formats [B.01.455, FDR]
Purpose: The simplified formats are designed for foods that contain a limited number of nutrients. These formats provide nutrient information for 1 serving of food as sold. However, they do not declare all 12 nutrients and Calories in the core list and, consequently, are smaller than standard format Nutrition Facts tables.
Some jams, jellies, fruit flavoured drinks, drink mix powders, and diet soft drinks meet the criteria for the simplified format.
Simplified formats: hierarchy of formats decision tree
What nutrients must be declared in the simplified formats [B.01.401(6), FDR]
Calories
fat
carbohydrate
protein
any other nutrient in the core list (that is, saturated fat, trans fat, fibre, sugars, cholesterol, sodium, potassium, calcium, iron) that cannot be expressed as "0"
any nutrient that is the subject of a statement, claim or representation
any sugar alcohol, vitamin or mineral nutrient added to the product (other than iodine added to table salt, or fluoride added to water or ice)
any vitamin or mineral nutrient declared as a component of 1 of the product's ingredients other than flour, and
a footnote: "Not a significant source of (naming the excluded core nutrients)" or for Nutrition Facts tables in the third level of options in the decision tree, "Not a significant source of other nutrients"
% Daily Value interpretative statement is included in all figures of the simplified formats in the first and second level options, as well as figure 17.1 of the simplified linear format. This interpretive statement is not required for the following figures in the third level:
bilingual simplified standard format (figures 6.5 to 6.6)
bilingual simplified horizontal format (figures 7.3 to 7.4)
simplified linear format (figure 17.2) [B.01.401(8), FDR]
Note: Values that are "0" and are not required to be declared may be voluntarily declared in the NFt. For example, if the value for sodium in a food that qualifies for the simplified format is 0 mg, it may still be included.
Major distinguishing features of the simplified formats
Simplified standard format
Vertical display of nutrition information
Unilingual French and English formats and bilingual format
One serving size declaration for the food as sold, expressed in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Nutrition information [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)] presented for 1 serving of food as sold
Not all core information is required to be declared. Only Calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein and triggered core and additional information must be declared
Footnote: "Not a significant source of (naming the core nutrients not declared)" or "Not a significant source of other nutrients." The second, abbreviated footnote may be used on smaller versions of the bilingual simplified standard format (figures 6.5 to 6.6)
% DV interpretative statement is included in the simplified standard formats but is not required in the smaller versions of the bilingual simplified standard format (that is, figures 6.5 to 6.6)
Additional information is optional
Bilingual simplified horizontal
Horizontal display of nutrition information
Bilingual format only, no unilingual tables
Displays the same information as the simplified standard formats
Smaller versions of the bilingual simplified horizontal format, figures 7.3 to 7.4, may declare the abbreviated footnote: "Not a significant source of other nutrients."
% DV interpretative statement is not required in smaller versions of the bilingual simplified horizontal format (that is, figures 7.3 to 7.4)
The second level options, bilingual simplified horizontal format figures 7.1 and 7.2, may only be used when:
there is no continuous panel on the label that would accommodate any NFt listed among the first level options (simplified standard 5.1 to 5.6, or bilingual simplified standard 6.1 to 6.4), and/or
manipulating the container to read a first level option printed sideways on the side panel or bottom would result in leakage or damage to the product
Simplified linear format
Linear display of information (no columns of information)
Unilingual formats only
Displays the same information as the simplified standard format
Linear formats may declare the abbreviated footnote: "Not a significant source of other nutrients."
% Daily Value interpretative statement is not required in smaller versions of the simplified linear format (that is, figure 17.2)
Purpose: The simplified formats – single-serving prepackaged products are designed specifically for single-serving prepackaged products with little nutritional value, and do not apply to single-serving prepackaged meals.
These formats provide nutrient information for the package contents as sold. Since single-serving prepackaged products face space challenges in trying to accommodate all labelling requirements, they may omit certain nutrients, as well as the "Not a significant source of …" footnote.
The majority of products that tend to be sold in single-serve packages are snack foods. While the intent is to provide information on the negative nutrients from a public health standpoint (for example, trans + saturated fat, sugars, sodium), the amounts of cholesterol, dietary fibre, potassium, calcium or iron are not likely to be as relevant to consumers of snack foods and are therefore not required. However, manufacturers may voluntarily add this information back into the table if they wish.
The table Which Nutrition Facts table format family should I use provides guidance on when this format is appropriate for use. Single-serve packages of snack foods, such as chocolate bars and potato chips, meet the criteria for the simplified format – single-serving prepackaged products.
Simplified formats – single-serving prepackaged products: hierarchy of formats decision tree
What nutrients must be declared in the simplified formats – single-serving prepackaged products [B.01.401(6.1), FDR]
Calories
fat
saturated fat, trans fats, and the sum of saturated and trans fats must all be declared if the value of any one or the sum is not expressed as "0"
carbohydrate
protein
any of the following core nutrients that cannot be expressed as "0": sugars, sodium
any nutrient that is the subject of a statement, claim or representation
any sugar alcohol, vitamin or mineral nutrient added to the product (other than iodine added to table salt, or fluoride added to water or ice)
% Daily Value interpretative statement is included in all simplified formats – single-serving prepackaged products in the first and second level options, as well as Figure 17.1.1 of the simplified linear format – single-serving prepackaged products. This interpretive statement is not required for the following figures in the third level options:
bilingual simplified standard format – single-serving prepackaged products (figures 6.5.1 to 6.6.1)
bilingual simplified horizontal standard format – single-serving prepackaged products (figures 7.3.1 to 7.4.1)
simplified linear format – single-serving prepackaged products (figure 17.2.1) [B.01.401(8), FDR]
Note: Values that are "0" and are not required to be declared may be voluntarily declared in the NFt. For example, if the value for sodium in a food that qualifies for the simplified format for single-serving prepackaged products is 0 mg, it may still be included.
Major distinguishing features of the simplified formats – single-serving prepackaged products
Bilingual simplified standard – single-serving prepackaged products
Vertical display of nutrition information
Bilingual formats only, no unilingual tables
One serving size declaration for the food as sold, expressed in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Nutrition information [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)] presented for the entire package contents
Not all core information is required to be declared. The footnote "Not a significant source of …" is not required
% DV interpretative statement is not required in smaller versions of the bilingual simplified standard format (that is, figures 6.5.1 and 6.6.1)
Displays the same information as the simplified standard – single-serving prepackaged products formats
% Daily Value interpretative statement is not required in smaller versions of the bilingual simplified horizontal format (that is, figures 7.3.1 to 7.4.1)
The second level options, bilingual simplified horizontal format figures 7.1.1 and 7.2.1, may only be used when:
there is no continuous panel on the label that would accommodate any NFt listed among the first level options (bilingual simplified standard – single-serving prepackaged products figures 6.1.1 to 6.4.1), and/or
manipulating the container to read a first level option printed sideways on the side panel or bottom would result in leakage or damage to the product
The following alternate figure illustrates how this bilingual simplified horizontal format could look like when saturated and trans fats, sugars and sodium values cannot be expressed as "0".
Simplified linear format – single-serving prepackaged products
Linear display of information (no columns of information)
Unilingual format only
Displays the same information as the bilingual simplified standard – single-serving prepackaged products format
Dual format – foods requiring preparation [B.01.456, FDR]
Purpose: The dual format – foods requiring preparation provides nutrition information for both the food as sold and for the food as it is usually consumed.
This box of cereal may use the dual format – foods requiring preparation to provide nutrition information for the cereal as sold, as well as for the cereal as consumed with milk.
This powder based mix may use the dual format – foods requiring preparation to provide nutrition information for the food as sold (powder mix) and for the food as prepared.
Note: In cases where the nutrition information for the food is not altered by the preparation – where the nutrition information is the same for the food as sold and for the food as prepared – a standard, bilingual horizontal, linear or simplified format may be used. Note that in these cases, the serving size declaration is modified to include a declaration for the food as prepared in addition to the food as sold. The serving size for the "Prepared" food includes the household measure only, not the metric measure. For drink crystals to be prepared with added water, for example, the serving size may be declared as "Per 1 tbsp (2 g) (about 1 cup prepared)". Other examples include frozen concentrated juice to be prepared with added water, some popping corn.
Dual format – foods requiring preparation: hierarchy of formats decision tree
Major distinguishing features of the dual format – foods requiring preparation
The format of the dual format – foods requiring preparation is modified slightly depending on whether the food is to be prepared (for example, cake mix) or is served combined with another food (for example, cereal and milk). Examples of both variations are provided.
Food requiring preparation (for example, cake mix)
Nutrition Facts table
Vertical display of nutrition information
Unilingual French and English formats and bilingual format
Serving size and sub-headings
There are 2 serving size declarations: for the food as sold, and for the food as prepared
Food as sold is declared in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Food as prepared is declared in a household measure, with the statement "about (naming the serving size)" or "about (naming the serving size) prepared"
Sub-headings (next line of information) – "As sold" and "Prepared". (Note: In the case of a cake mix, the "As sold" sub-heading may be modified and declared as "Dry mix", for example)
Nutrient declarations
Food as sold
Complete nutrition information for the food as sold, declared in absolute values (g, mg), immediately following the nutrient description and where required, % Daily Value (DV)
Core information is declared (Calories and 12 nutrients); and
Additional nutrients may be declared
Food as prepared
Calories
% DV for any nutrient that is declared as a % DV for the food as sold, and
Absolute values are not declared for the prepared food
Footnotes
A mandatory footnote links the absolute values (g, mg) declared in the NFt to the product as sold, for example, "† Amount in food as sold". See the symbol † attached to the "fat" declaration
An optional footnote ‡ presents the amount of nutrients provided by the added ingredients in absolute values (g, mg). See the symbol ‡ attached to the "Prepared" sub-heading. Note that these values represent the nutrient content of the added foods only, not the total nutrient value of the prepared product. For example, in the case of a cake mix, this footnote sets out the nutrient value of the added eggs and milk, not the nutrient value of the final prepared cake
% DV interpretative statement is included in all versions of the dual format – foods requiring preparation
Note: Variations in sub-headings are possible to describe the different forms of the food for which information is provided. This format can also be used for products as cooked that do not have any ingredients added (for example, bacon "As sold" and "Cooked") or for products as drained (for example, sardines in oil "As sold" and "Drained"). As there are no ingredients added in these cases, the optional footnote stated above which presents the amount of nutrients provided by added ingredients does not apply. The serving size for the "Prepared" food includes the household measure only, not the metric measure.
Combined food (for example, cereal and milk)
Nutrition Facts table
Vertical display of nutrition information.
Unilingual French and English formats and bilingual format.
Serving size and sub-headings
There is 1 serving size for the food as sold, declared in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets).
Note: The "(about HM prepared)" does not apply in the case of food that is served combined with another food [B.01.406(5)(a)(i), FDR]. The combined food is therefore not part of the serving size declaration.
Sub-headings (next line of information) – "As sold" and, for a food that is served combined with another food, the sub-heading "Prepared" is replaced with the amount of added food in a household measure only (for example, "With ½ cup skim milk") [B.01.406(5)(a)(ii), FDR].
In the case of cereal served with skim milk, the optional footnote ‡ sets out the nutrient value of the added skim milk [for example, 1/2 cup skim milk adds 40 Calories, 6 g carbohydrate (6 g sugars), 4 g protein, 65 mg sodium]
Aggregate format – different kinds of foods [B.01.457, FDR]
Purpose: The aggregate format – different kinds of foods provides nutrition information for 2 or more foods or ingredients in a prepackaged product.
The aggregate format – different kinds of foods is suitable for this multi-pack of granola bars. Each bar is a single serving and has a unique nutrient profile.
This snack ensemble may use the aggregate format – different kinds of foods to present the nutrition information for the individual foods. Use of the aggregate format – different kinds of foods is optional.
The aggregate format – different kinds of foods may be used to provide nutrition information for each type of chocolate. Use of the aggregate format – different kinds of foods is optional.
This format may also be used for multi-use packages (for example, a container that is used to package a variety of dips, where the same NFt and package would be used each time) provided it is clear which nutrition information applies to which product.
The aggregate format – different kinds of foods may not be used for this multi-pack of frozen ices, where each frozen ice is 1 serving of food and the nutrient information for all the frozen ices is the same.
Aggregate format – different kinds of food: hierarchy of formats decision tree
Aggregate format
Major distinguishing features of the Aggregate format – different kinds of foods
Vertical display of nutrition information
Unilingual French and English formats and bilingual format
Presentation of nutrition information for more than 1 food
The serving sizes are expressed in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Complete nutrient information is given for 2 or more foods [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)]
Core information is declared (Calories and 12 nutrients)
Additional information may be declared
All nutrition information provided for the first food must also be provided for all food(s) in the same units
% DV interpretive statement is included in all versions of the aggregate format – different kinds of food
the information for serving size, energy and core nutrients is different for each variety, and
the household measure of each variety differs
In this case, the household measure for each can appear before the corresponding metric measure of that variety as shown in the image below. The serving size used must reflect the regulated reference amount for the product category in the Table of Reference Amounts for Food.
An example is a variety pack of sliced ready to eat meats, where the thickness of the slice of each variety differs.
Simplified aggregate format
Although not mentioned in the FDR, Health Canada permits the use of a simplified aggregate format – different kinds of foods for prepackaged foods that meet the criteria for both the aggregate format – different kinds of foods (prepackaged foods containing an assortment of foods or separately packaged ingredients) and the simplified format (foods whose nutrient value is "0", as reported in the NFt, for 6 or more of Calories and core nutrients).
Dual format – different amounts of food [B.01.458, FDR]
Purpose: The Dual format – different amounts of food may be used whenever it is suitable to provide nutrition information for a food in more than 1 amount. For instance, foods may have different uses and be consumed in different amounts, or be shown in different units of measurement.
For example, the dual format – different amounts of food may be used to provide information for 2 slices and 1 slice of bread, or for 1/2 cup (125 mL) of applesauce, when served as a fruit, and 1 tbsp (15 mL) of applesauce, when used as a condiment.
The primary serving (HM1) is always reflective of the reference amount.
Since the reference amount is reflective of 2 slices of bread, the nutrition information required in the first column of the NFt must be for 2 slices of bread, this being the primary serving (HM1).
Since 125 mL is the reference amount for applesauce, this amount must be shown as the primary serving within the NFt.
Dual format – different amounts of food: hierarchy of formats decision tree
Dual format
Major distinguishing features of the dual format – different amounts of food
Nutrition Facts table
Vertical display of nutrition information
Unilingual French and English formats and bilingual format
Serving size and sub-headings
There is 1 serving size declaration for the primary serving of food, declared as a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets). The primary serving corresponds to the serving of food declared below the Nutrition Facts heading and is reflective of the reference amount
Sub-headings: Declare the different amounts of food in a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
Nutrient declarations
First amount of food (that is, the primary serving):
Complete nutrition information [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)] are provided for the first amount of food
Core information is declared (Calories and 12 nutrients)
Additional information may be declared
For other amounts of food:
Calories
% DV for any nutrient that is declared as a % DV for the first amount of food
Footnote
% DV interpretative statement is included in all versions of the dual format – different amounts of food
Aggregate format – different amounts of food [B.01.459, FDR]
Purpose: Similarly to the dual format – different amounts of food, the aggregate format – different amounts of food may be used whenever it is suitable to provide nutrition information for a food in more than 1 amount, to reflect different uses or different units of measurement of a food.
The aggregate format – different amounts of food provides complete nutrition information (that is, in both absolute values and % Daily Values) for all amounts of food, whereas the dual format – different amounts of food only provides absolute values for the first amount of food.
For example, the aggregate format – different amounts of food may be used to provide information for 2 slices and 1 slice of bread, or for 1 tbsp (15 mL) of condensed milk, when used to whiten coffee, or 1/2 cup (125 mL), when reconstituted and used as a beverage.
The primary serving (HM1) is always reflective of the reference amount.
Aggregate format – different amounts of food: hierarchy of formats decision tree
Aggregate format
Major distinguishing features of the aggregate format – different amounts of food
Nutrition Facts table
Presentation of nutrition information for more than 1 serving size of a food
Unilingual English and French tables and bilingual table
Serving size and headings
The serving size for all amounts of foods appear as headings to the appropriate columns of information
The serving size for all amounts of food is expressed as a household measure (first) and in a metric measure (second, in brackets)
The primary serving corresponds to the first serving of food and is reflective of the reference amount
Nutrient declarations
Complete nutrient information is given for all amounts of food [absolute values (g, mg) and where required, % Daily Value (DV)]
Core information is declared (Calories and 12 nutrients)
Additional information may be declared
All nutrition information provided for the first amount of food must also be provided for all amount(s) in the same units
Footnote
% DV interpretative statement is included in all versions of the aggregate format – different amounts of food
Alternate methods of presentation
The FDR provides for alternatives in the presentation of nutrition information. For many of the formats, but not all formats, prepackaged products that meet the conditions of being able to use a third level Nutrition Facts table (NFt) option may use "Alternative methods of presentation".
When the FDR permits these alternative methods, the NFt may be set out on:
a tag attached to the package
package insert
the inner side of a label
a fold-out label, or
an outer sleeve, overwrap or collar
Any version (size) of the permitted NFt formats may be used. In the case of a package insert or the inner side of a label, the outer label of the prepackaged product shall indicate in a type size of not less than 8 points where the Nutrition Facts table is located [B.01.466, FDR].
Nutrition Facts table formats on tags
The available display surface for tags section provides information for situations in which a Nutrition Facts table (NFt) may alternatively be presented on a tag attached to a package.
When the NFt is set out on a tag, it must be set out in a format and size described in 1 of the following sections of the FDR:
B.01.456(4) dual format – foods requiring preparation
B.01.457(4) aggregate format – different kinds of foods
B.01.458(4) dual format – different amounts of food, or
B.01.459(4) aggregate format – different amounts of food
Formats for specific packaging cases
Small packages < 100 cm2 available display surface
Small packages with an available display surface (ADS) of <100 cm2 need not carry a Nutrition Facts table (NFt) on the label provided that an indication is present on the outer label indicating how the consumer or purchaser may obtain the nutrition information [B.01.467(1), FDR]. There are several requirements which the statement must meet. Refer to the Manner of declaring the statement section for more information.
Losing the < 100 cm2 ADS exemption
There are several scenarios in which this small package NFt exemption does not apply and the package is required to carry an NFt [B.01.467(2), FDR]. These scenarios are covered in Reasons for losing the nutrition labelling exemption, with 1 exception: ground meat, ground meat by-products, ground poultry meat and ground poultry meat by-products may still retain this small package NFt exemption.
When the exemption is lost, the NFt need only include:
the serving size
Calories and any of the core nutrients that cannot be expressed as "0"
any nutrient that is the subject of a representation, and
any sugar alcohol, vitamin or mineral nutrient that is added to the product [B.01.468(1), FDR]
Alternate methods of presentation (for example, tag, package insert, inner label, a fold-out label, an outer sleeve, overwrap or collar) may be used. However, the format hierarchy must permit that option.
Note: Exemptions from bilingual labelling exist for local foods, test market foods and specialty foods [B.01.012(3) and (7), FDR].
Never losing the < 100 cm2 ADS exemption
The NFt exemption for small packages with an ADS of < 100 cm2 also applies to a prepackaged product that qualifies for a free of sugars claim, when the following conditions are met [B.01.467(2.1), FDR]:
the product does not contain an added vitamin or mineral nutrient
the Calories and the amount of sugar alcohols are shown immediately after whichever of the following elements appears last on the label:
the list of ingredients
a phenylalanine statement
a contains statement
a cross-contamination statement
the free of sugars claim or the common name that includes the term "sugar-free" must be legibly set out on the principal display panel:
in lower case letters, except the first letter of each word in the statement or claim which may be in upper case
in a type size no less than that of the numerical quantity in the declaration of net quantity, and
with sufficient contrast between the text and the background
Manner of declaring the statement
The statement indicating how the nutrition information may be obtained must satisfy several requirements [B.01.467(3), FDR]:
the print type size of the statement must not be less than 8 points
the statement must include a postal address or a toll-free telephone number, and
the statement must be declared in both French and English
The manufacturer of the prepackaged product must provide nutrition information upon request [B.01.467(4), FDR]:
without charge, and
in French or English, or both languages as requested
The manufacturer must also ensure that:
the Nutrition Facts table is in a format that would otherwise be used on the label in accordance with the regulations (as specified in sections B.01.454 to B.01.459 and B.01.461 to B.01.464 of the FDR). For example, a standard format is suitable to provide nutrition information based on one serving of food as sold
horizontal or linear formats are not used
the largest version (size) of an appropriate format listed in the top level of the decision trees is used (for example, figures 1.1, 2.1, 3.1), and
the Nutrition Facts table conforms to all requirements of the regulations (for example, content, format)
Retail packages ≥ 200 cm2 available display surface
A product sold only in the retail establishment where it is packaged, when the package has an available display surface (ADS) of 200 cm2 or more and is labelled with a sticker, is not exempt from declaring an NFt.
For products using standard formats (that is, providing nutrition information for 1 serving of food as sold), 1 of the following Nutrition Facts tables must be used: standard (figures 1.1 to 1.3), narrow standard (figures 2.1 to 2.3) or the bilingual standard (figures 3.1 to 3.3) [B.01.454(5), FDR]
When products qualify to use simplified formats (products that may declare "0" for 6 or more of Calories and core nutrients), the retailer has the option of using 1 of the following Nutrition Facts tables: simplified standard (figures 5.1 to 5.3) or the bilingual simplified standard (figures 6.1 to 6.3) [B.01.455(4), FDR]
For single-serving prepackaged products, other than prepackaged meals, using the simplified format – single-serving prepackaged products, 1 of the following Nutrition Facts tables must be used: bilingual simplified standard (figures 6.1.1 to 6.3.1)
For products that display an aggregate or dual format, the retailer must choose the version of the applicable format based on the ADS of the package
Reference information
Compendium of templates for Nutrition Facts tables and list of ingredients
To help label designers and the food and packaging industry meet format specifications of the FDR, Health Canada developed a Compendium of templates for Nutrition Facts tables and list of ingredients which is available for order on the Health Canada website. The templates are the actual-size graphic illustrations of the various versions of the Nutrition Facts table permitted by the FDR. Also included are a few sample templates for the list of ingredients that would meet the graphic specifications as set out in the FDR.
The templates were created in Adobe InDesign CC 2015 and are available in INDD, IDML and PDF format. The IND files can be opened and edited in Adobe InDesign CC 2015 or newer. The IDML files can be opened and edited in older versions of Adobe InDesign (CS4 and later).
It is recommended that the templates be edited in Adobe InDesign, however conversion to other software packages is possible. A third-party extension (for example, ID2Q by Markzware) can be used to convert the InDesign files to Quark Xpress files.
If the Acrobat (PDF) files are viewed or printed using Acrobat Reader or opened in commonly used artwork software packages such as Adobe Illustrator or Macromedia Freehand, the conversion may not be perfect and will cause alterations in the graphic elements. Consequently, before using the converted templates, it is important to check them against the graphic specifications in the Nutrition Labelling – Directory of Nutrition Facts Table Formats document posted on the Health Canada website which sets out all measurements for the NFTs.
The templates in the Compendium of templates for Nutrition Facts tables and list of ingredients only contain mandatory information. If additional information is included in the NFt, it will not fit in the templates without altering the measurements. The outer measurements of the NFt, as listed on the templates, may change if additional information is declared or if fonts other than Helvetica or Arial are used.