Health Canada is conducting a cost-benefit analysis survey to gather information about the impact of its proposed changes to the labels of Natural Health Products (NHPs). Interested stakeholders have until May 30, 2018, to complete the survey and provide any other comments.

As we reported, Health Canada is changing the way it regulates non-prescription drugs, natural health products and cosmetics, referred to as "self-care products." As part of this process, Health Canada has proposed to change the labelling requirements for NHPs. These changes, which will be made by way of amendments to the Natural Health Products Regulations, include:

  • a facts table to standardize the format for certain information (Product Facts Table);
  • modernized contact information for problem reporting and asking questions; and
  • the use of comprehensible and readable language (including use of plain language attributes such as simple sentences, information presented in simple bullets, short lists, contrast, font style and size) on all NHP labels.

These new requirements would be in addition to the information already required to be on the product, which are set out in Part 5 of the Natural Health Products Regulations.

Health Canada is proposing a coming-into-force period of one year for new licencees. NHPs that are marketed prior to the coming into force could continue to be sold without meeting the new requirements for an additional four years following the coming into force.

The cost-benefit analysis survey can be submitted to Health Canada by mail or e-mail to the addresses included in the survey.

Health Canada will be responding to questions on the survey from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. (EST) on April 4, 2018, and 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (EST) on April 6, 2018, either via teleconference or webinar. If you are interested, please e-mail selfcareproducts-produitsautosoins@hc-sc.gc.ca and indicate your preferred date.

Link:

Cost-Benefit Analysis Survey for Improved Labelling for Natural Health Products in English and French

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