Introduction

Since recreational cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018, the country has become a leader in the global industry. Through the Cannabis Act, the government was able to create a framework for the regulated and controlled production and sale of cannabis.

It is important for any lawyer who specializes in the field of cannabis law to understand the various requirements that affects on cannabis packaging and labelling regulations of cannabis products in the country. These regulations ensure that the public has clear and accurate information when buying cannabis.

The article will look into the various requirements that apply to the packaging and labelling of cannabis products in Canada. It will also provide advice on how to navigate the complicated regulatory landscape.

Legal Framework for Cannabis Packaging and Labelling in Canada

The main legislation that governs the production, sale, and possession of cannabis in Canada is the Cannabis Act. It provides a framework for the regulation of the various aspects of the industry. The Act also provides for the establishment of regulations that apply to the packaging and labelling of cannabis products.

1.1. The Cannabis Regulations

The regulations, which are part of the Cannabis Act, cover the packaging and labelling requirements for various types of cannabis products. These include dried cannabis, edible cannabis, and cannabis oil.

1.2. The Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act

The Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act provides general requirements for consumer product packaging and labelling in Canada. Although it does not specifically address cannabis products, its provisions apply to all consumer products, making it a relevant piece of legislation for understanding the packaging and labelling requirements for cannabis products.

Packaging Requirements for Cannabis Products

The regulations established by the Cannabis Act specify the various requirements that must be met in order for cannabis products to be properly packaged.

​​2.1. Child-Resistant

The packaging of cannabis products must be child-resistant. This means that the container should be designed to prevent kids from opening or accessing the contents.

2.2. Tamper-Evident

The packaging must be tamper-evident, which means that it must be sealed in a way that the consumer can easily identify if the package has been opened or otherwise tampered with.

2.3. Preventing Contamination

Packaging must be designed in a way that prevents the cannabis product from becoming contaminated during handling or storage.

2.4. Opaque or Translucent

Cannabis product packaging must be opaque or translucent, ensuring that the contents are not visible through the packaging.

2.5. Plain and Standardized Appearance

The appearance of the packaging should also be standardized in order to discourage young people from consuming cannabis. This includes limiting the design elements that can make the product look more appealing.

Labelling Requirements for Cannabis Products

In addition to the requirements for packaging, the regulations also require that the labels for cannabis products contain clear and consistent information. This ensures that the public has the necessary information when buying cannabis.

3.1. Mandatory Information

Cannabis product labels must include the following mandatory information:
Product name and brand name
Product class and subclass (e.g., dried cannabis, cannabis oil, edible cannabis)
THC and CBD content (expressed in milligrams or as a percentage, depending on the product)
Net weight or volume of the product
Name and contact information of the processor
Lot number
Packaging date and, if applicable, expiry date

A warning message about the health risks associated with cannabis use

The standardized cannabis symbol, which must be displayed prominently on the label

3.2. Bilingual Labelling

All mandatory information must be provided in both English and French, Canada’s official languages. The information must be legible and prominently displayed on the label.

3.3. Legibility and Display

The label should be applied in a way that will ensure that the mandatory information stays prominent and legible. It should also be visible even when the container is opened.

3.4. Prohibited Labelling Elements

Certain elements are prohibited from being included on cannabis product labels, including:
False or misleading information
Testimonials or endorsements
Depictions of people, characters, or animals
Elements that evoke a positive or negative emotion or that associate the product with a particular way of life
Claims about the product’s health benefits or therapeutic effects, except as authorized by Health Canada

Compliance and Enforcement

All of the producers, distributors, retailers, and wholesalers of cannabis products must comply with the regulations in order to avoid penalties.

Health Canada is the agency responsible for enforcing the labelling and packaging requirements for cannabis products. It regularly inspects licensed producers in order to ensure that they are following the regulations.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape

Getting the proper information on the packaging and labelling of cannabis products can be a daunting task for new businesses in Canada. As a lawyer who specializes in the field of cannabis law, I can help my clients navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure that they are following all the necessary regulations.

Here are some key steps for ensuring compliance with packaging and labelling requirements:

Regularly review the Cannabis Regulations and the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act to stay informed about the current requirements

Seek guidance from Health Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and other relevant authorities as needed

Consult with industry associations, such as the Cannabis Council of Canada, for best practices and guidance

Collabourate with packaging and labelling experts who specialize in cannabis products to ensure that designs meet regulatory requirements

Train staff to identify and address potential compliance issues

Develop a robust compliance program that includes regular internal audits and reviews of packaging and labelling practices

Conclusion

The requirements for the labelling and packaging of cannabis products in Canada are aimed at protecting the public’s health and safety. Having the proper knowledge about them can help my clients comply with the regulations.

Legal professionals can also play a vital role in supporting the country’s flourishing cannabis industry by keeping up with the latest developments.