Most ordinary prepackaged non-food products begin with three core declarations: product identity, net quantity, and dealer identity. The exact content, language, location, type size, and exemptions still need a product-specific review.
Short answer
Under the Consumer Packaging and Labelling framework, a typical prepackaged non-food consumer product must show its identity, net quantity, and dealer name and place of business. Product identity and net quantity are generally bilingual, while detailed rules govern placement, units, legibility, accuracy, and exemptions. Other laws can add requirements for cosmetics, chemicals, textiles, or regulated products.
| Declaration | Review | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Product identity | Common or generic function in required languages | Approved content matrix |
| Net quantity | Correct metric units, method, type size and location | Measured proof |
| Dealer information | Correct legal identity and place of business | Master business data |
| Accuracy | No misleading text, images, quantity or origin impression | Claim review |
| Language | English and French treatment and any documented exemption | Translation approval |
| Other laws | Category rules for chemicals, cosmetics, textiles and more | Classification record |
Confirm the product is within the general framework
The Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act and Regulations cover many prepackaged non-food consumer products, but specialized products can have additional or different rules. Record the product category, contents, claims, package format, importer or dealer, and Canadian markets.
Do not use a household product template for cosmetics, hazardous consumer chemicals, workplace chemicals, medical products, food, cannabis, textiles, or another specially regulated category without a separate review.
- Product category and intended use
- Prepackaged consumer sale
- Dealer or importer of record
- Canadian provinces and territories
- Category-specific statutes
Control identity, net quantity and dealer information
The product identity should tell the consumer what the item is or does. Net quantity must use the applicable measurement method and metric units. Dealer information must identify the responsible business and its place of business as required.
Check which information belongs on the principal display panel and which may appear elsewhere. Measure type and contrast on the printed package, accounting for curved surfaces, seams, transparent containers, and background graphics.
Having identity, quantity, and dealer text somewhere on the package does not prove compliance. Language, wording, units, location, type size, and accuracy all matter.
Plan bilingual copy and exemptions carefully
The product identity generally needs English and French. For net quantity, recognized metric symbols such as g and mL work in both languages; written unit names need the applicable bilingual treatment. Dealer name and place of business can generally appear in either official language under this federal framework. Confirm exemptions and additional category or provincial rules before artwork approval.
Quebec language requirements can add obligations beyond the federal framework. If the product will be sold in Quebec, include that review early enough to avoid redesigning a finished package.
- Approved English terminology
- Qualified French translation
- Documented exemption if relied upon
- Quebec-specific review
- Final proofread at print size
Prevent misleading labels and production errors
Review the complete consumer impression created by words, images, package size, quantity, origin references, certifications, and environmental claims. A technically correct statement can still mislead when the overall presentation suggests something untrue.
Use a print-ready checklist for dielines, bleed, safe zones, colour, barcode data, variable fields, material, adhesive, and applied-package testing. Retain the approved artwork version and physical sample.
- Claim and image substantiation
- Quantity and unit verification
- Barcode scan test
- Physical label application
- Documented release and revision control
Authoritative sources
Product specifications and regulatory guidance can change. Confirm your final production setup against the current primary sources below.
- Competition Bureau packaging and labelling requirements
- Competition Bureau information required on the label
Competition Bureau: detailed Consumer Packaging and Labelling guide
Frequently asked questions
What are the three core declarations on many Canadian non-food labels?
They are product identity, net quantity, and dealer name and place of business, subject to detailed requirements and any other applicable law.
Does every statement need English and French?
Product identity and net quantity generally require bilingual treatment. Dealer information and exemptions follow more detailed rules, and Quebec may add requirements.
Can I copy a competitor's Canadian label?
No. It is not evidence that your product, claims, quantity, package, business information, or market meet the rules.
Are cosmetics covered only by these general rules?
No. Cosmetics also follow the Food and Drugs Act and Cosmetic Regulations, including specific ingredient, safety, and notification requirements.
Proof the label before ordering rolls
After the required copy is reviewed, print at final size and apply it to the actual package. Check legibility, panel placement, barcode space and adhesion.
Request a blank-label fit check with your printer model, dimensions, container and exposure conditions, or read our design and proofing guide.
