nsistent labelling among beers that could lead to consumer confusion. A consistent and equitable regulatory regime for the labelling of food allergen sources, gluten sources and added sulphites on all prepackaged foods is considered beneficial for those consumers who must avoid these ingredients. Consideration was also given to the absence of a health-based rationale supporting the treatment of beer differently than other prepackaged foods, including other alcoholic beverages.

based on these considerations it was determined to proceed with the removal of the labelling exemptions as proposed in the Canada Gazette, Part I.

Regulatory cooperation

United States

The requirements for malt-based beverages in the United States are not identical to the Canadian beer standard mainly because the United States does not limit residual sugars. However, the amendments are not expected to impact trade of U.S. beers imported into Canada.

The amendments to the labelling requirements partially align Canadian requirements with those proposed in the United States. While beers sold in Canada are now required to be labelled with food allergen sources, gluten sources, added sulphites and added flavouring preparations, the United States also requires labelling of flavours and added sulphites, and has proposed mandatory labelling of major food allergens. In the meantime, the United States has set out standards for voluntary allergen statements.