How To Be Compliant with Canadian Cannabis Packaging Rules and Regulations

Unlike the USA, the cannabis rules and regulations for packaging in Canada apply to the whole country, rather than varying by individual state. The Cannabis Act and Cannabis Regulations came into force in Canada in 2018 and were amended in 2019. It is expected that a further review will soon be due – so it’s important to stay up to date with the regulation changes! The laws in this article are correct as of 2022. Whilst there are laws regarding cannabis production and distribution, this article will look at some of the laws regarding your packaging design. As one of the main goals of the Cannabis Act is to deter youths from ingesting the drug – the regulations are more restrictive than those in the US.

Branding/Design

Whilst establishing a strong brand identity is important, this can be more challenging as Canada has strict rules on what you can do with your cannabis packaging. Cannabis manufacturers may use their brand name and only one additional branding element – but this comes with rules. Any logo cannot be bigger than the standardized cannabis symbol, and any slogan cannot be a larger font size than the mandatory health warnings that must be included. Product packaging must also be plain in design, use of textures, coatings, packaging inserts, and bright or metallic colours are strictly prohibited. This will make standing out in the cannabis market very difficult, but it can be done. Just make sure that your logo is something special – let it tell your brand story!

The Immediate Container

Your packaging must be child-resistant, and it must be opaque or translucent to completely obscure what is inside the package. The container must also be one uniform color which must contrast with the mandatory yellow health warning. It may not include any kind of testimonial, graphic design, or indicate that the product can be used in any other way than medicinal (i.e., it mustn’t be associated with recreational use or as something illicit and risky). You may not use any product inserts such as brochures, and any exterior wrapping must be clear and untextured.

Mandatory Labelling Information

As mentioned before, there are some mandatory labeling requirements in Canada. You must include the standardized cannabis logo and yellow health warning. The word ‘WARNING’ in bold must be included, along with the phrase “KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN/TENIR HORS DE LA PORTEE DES ENFANTS”. Health warnings must be written in French and English.

Additionally, you must include another panel with your product specifications including ingredients, allergens, THC and CBD content. This panel must also contain the cannabis source information, the product weight, storage recommendations and the manufacture and packaging date.

To conclude, the cannabis packaging regulations in Canada are restrictive, and it can be hard to stand out in the Cannabis market. Make sure to do thorough research if you’re planning to sell your product in Canada, as it is not easy to do marketing activities or establish a brand identity. Failing to adhere to the rules set out in the act can result in a hefty fine and revoking your license to sell.