DIRECT FOOD CONTACT
Although it is not mandatory, food packaging companies may wish to obtain an opinion
from Health Canada on the suitability of a package for a specific application, in the
form of a “Letter of Non-objection”. Health Canada evaluates the entire package
design, including all materials used, manufacturing process, type of food to be
packaged and how it will be stored and processed for use. If information on the
composition of inks used is required, the packager must provide the Health Canada
project reference number to the ink supplier who will then submit the information
directly to Health Canada. The whole process can take 6 months to 2+ years. It
should also be noted that assessments are done for packaging only. Single service
items like paper plates, cups, napkins plastic utensils, etc. are not included as
packaging materials.