Entering the Canadian Market: Understanding the Roles of Brand Managers, Brokers, and Distributors

Entering the Canadian Market: Understanding the Roles of Brand Managers, Brokers, and Distributors

For European and international brands, entering the Canadian market often presents a significant and unexpected barrier driven by uncertainty. It is not necessarily the product or its potential that limits progress, but rather a lack of understanding of how the Canadian system operates. In many European markets, manufacturers can approach retailers…
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Health Canada vs. FDA: Regulatory Frameworks and Compliance 

Health Canada vs. FDA: Regulatory Frameworks and Compliance 

Regulatory compliance in Canada requires adherence to federal, provincial, and, in some cases, municipal legislation governing the safety, quality, and labelling of products placed on the Canadian market. Health Canada administers the regulation of a broad range of products primarily under the Food and Drugs Act and its associated Food and Drug Regulations.…
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New and Upcoming FDA Changes in 2025: GRAS Rules, FOP Labelling, and Supplement Ingredients – What You Need to Know

New and Upcoming FDA Changes in 2025: GRAS Rules, FOP Labelling, and Supplement Ingredients – What You Need to Know

On September 4, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published its Unified Regulatory Agenda, a key planning document that outlines the Agency’s top priorities over the coming year. Among the many proposed and final rules, three initiatives stand out for their potential to significantly impact food and dietary…
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Guidelines for the Use of Maple Leaf and Canadian Flag on Products – Industry Insights 

Guidelines for the Use of Maple Leaf and Canadian Flag on Products – Industry Insights 

In Canada, the maple leaf and the Canadian flag are more than just symbols—they're the essence of what it means to be Canadian. From evoking national pride to representing our values, these emblems carry immense weight. But, as with anything valuable, they come with a set of rules. If you're…
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“Product of Canada” vs. “Made in Canada” Differences and Conditions of Use

“Product of Canada” vs. “Made in Canada” Differences and Conditions of Use

"Product of Canada" vs. "Made in Canada" Differences and Conditions of Use  Product labelling in Canada requires a careful approach, as many claims that appear on products are subject to regulations and must meet specific requirements to ensure compliance. While some companies may see these requirements as additional hurdles, regulating…
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FDA ESG NextGen Launch: Key Dates, Features, and Transition Guide for Users 

FDA ESG NextGen Launch: Key Dates, Features, and Transition Guide for Users 

As part of its ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline the submission process, the FDA is transitioning from its legacy Electronic Submission Gateway (ESG) system to ESG NextGen. This new platform is designed to make regulatory submissions more efficient, secure, and user-friendly, all while enhancing the overall user experience. The…
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Importing Food from Europe to Canada: Review of Requirements

Importing Food from Europe to Canada: Review of Requirements

As global trade continues to expand, the import of food products from Europe to Canada presents significant opportunities for businesses looking to reach new markets. However, ensuring compliance with both European and Canadian food regulations is crucial for a smooth and successful import process. The European Union (EU) enforces some…
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The FDA’s New “Healthy” Labeling Rules for Foods

The FDA’s New “Healthy” Labeling Rules for Foods

On December 19, 2024 , the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unveiled an update to its Final Ruling on the use of the “healthy” label for food products—a refreshed tool that helps consumers identify health foods that reflect current nutrition science and Federal dietary guidance. This update is part…
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Canada’s tariffs on U.S. products: Impact on food, cosmetics, and health goods

Canada’s tariffs on U.S. products: Impact on food, cosmetics, and health goods

On February 1, 2025, the Government of Canada formally responded to the U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods by announcing its own set of countermeasures. These tariffs on U.S. products are scheduled to take effect on February 4, 2025. As part of this response, the Department of Finance released a detailed…
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