What’s the New Symbol on Food Products?

Life is busy. Between daycare drop-offs, meal planning, and trying to remember what’s in the fridge, grocery shopping can feel like just another thing on the to-do list! We don’t always have time to read every nutrition label, and that’s okay.

That’s why a new front-of-package nutrition symbol is starting to show up on some food and drink products across Canada. It’s designed to make those shopping decisions just a little easier.

The symbol features a black-and-white magnifying glass icon and is hard to miss. Its job? To flag products that are high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium… nutrients that, when eaten in excess, can increase your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

While food companies have until 2026 to add the symbol to products that meet the criteria, some packages already display it today. You might spot it on things like crackers, snacks or frozen meals.

Use it as a quick-check tool when comparing items, like choosing between two cereals or soups. The symbol helps take the guesswork out of shopping, giving you an extra nudge toward more informed choices for you and your family. 

Because when it comes to feeding our families, every little bit of help counts! Learn more at canada.ca/frontpackagelabelling. 

 

Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.