We can help you Import Food

Canadian food labeling regulations are comprehensive. Ensure that your food products meet the requirements for bilingual labeling, ingredient listing, nutritional information, and allergen declarations. Proper labeling is crucial for compliance with Health Canada regulations.

Food products must meet Canadian standards for quality and safety. This includes adherence to specific food safety regulations and standards established by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Verification of compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is often require

Certain food products may require specific permits or licenses for importation. Verify whether your products fall under regulated categories and obtain the necessary documentation from relevant authorities. The CFIA and other agencies may be involved in the permitting process.

Imports of food products must comply with sanitary and phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Be aware of specific requirements for the type of food you are importing, and obtain any necessary certificates or clearances.

Clearly declare any allergens present in your food products on the packaging. Canada has strict regulations regarding the labeling of common allergens to ensure that consumers can make informed choices about the products they purchase.

Some food products may require specific import licenses. For example, dairy, meat, and poultry products often have additional licensing requirements. Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations for the type of food you intend to import.

If your food product involves biotechnology or falls under the category of novel foods, additional regulations may apply. Ensure compliance with guidelines provided by Health Canada's Novel Foods Directorate.

Understand the applicable customs duties and tariffs for your food products. Some items may be subject to specific trade agreements, impacting the amount of duty payable. Our team can assist in navigating these complexities to ensure cost-effective importation.

Businesses must obtain a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) license before presenting their shipments at the border. SFC licenses cannot be obtained at the border.

‍

Most foods imported commercially require a valid SFC license, including:

• Confectionary and snack foods (i.e. chips, candy, cookies, chocolates)
• Non-alcoholic beverages (i.e. tea, coffee, carbonated drinks)
• Grain-based foods (i.e. bread, cereals, pasta, baked goods)