The new allergen labeling regulations for foods sold in Canada, which were announced on 14 February 2011 came into force from 3 August 2012.
According to Health Canada, the regulations will help parents and Canadians who suffer from food allergies make more informed choices about the foods they purchase.
Minister of Health Leona Aglukkaq said the government proposes to support parents and all Canadians by providing the tools they need when shopping for themselves and their families.
"Today, we take another important step by providing Canadians who live with allergies and celiac disease with clearer labels so they can identify foods they can safely eat," Aglukkaq added.
The regulations will provide a clearer ingredient labels so that consumers can better avoid foods that contain the ingredient to which they are allergic or sensitive. They will also provide manufacturers with clear requirements so that allergens, gluten sources and sulphites are labeled in a consistent manner.