As of May 2025, Health Canada has implemented significant updates to the Cannabis Regulations, particularly affecting packaging and labeling requirements. These changes aim to streamline compliance, reduce industry burdens, and enhance consumer information. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
Key Packaging and Labeling Updates
1. Introduction of Transparent Packaging
Licensed producers can now incorporate cut-out windows and transparent containers for dried cannabis, fresh cannabis, and seeds. This move allows consumers to view the product directly, enhancing transparency and trust. (Stratcann)
2. Expanded Labeling Flexibility
QR Codes are now permitted on all containers, allowing direct access to lab results, terpene profiles, and brand messaging.
Peel-back and accordion labels are now allowed on all sizes, giving brands the freedom to include more product details and education without cluttering the front panel. (Stratcann)
3. Simplified Cannabinoid Labeling
Labels are now required to display only total THC and total CBD, eliminating the confusion of separate “actual” and “total” content listings.
4. Color and Design Enhancements
Packages can now feature different-colored lids, containers, and accents, breaking the previous rule requiring uniform dull colors. This opens creative doors for brands to better reflect their identity on shelves. (MJBizDaily)
5. Multi-Pack Edibles Allowed
Multiple edible containers (each ≤10 mg THC) can now be co-packed into a single outer container. Expect to see variety packs and curated experiences hitting shelves soon.
Why This Is a Game-Changer for Canadian Cannabis Brands
These updated rules do more than just make compliance easier—they unlock the full power of packaging as a strategic tool for branding and customer connection.
For years, Canadian cannabis packaging was restrained by rigid visual limitations that made it hard for any product to stand out—no matter how good it was. Now, with the green light to use windows, color accents, layered labeling, and QR codes, brands can finally speak to consumers the way CPG brands do in every other industry: visually, emotionally, and authentically.
This shift is massive because packaging plays a critical role in subconscious purchasing decisions. Research shows that consumers often form first impressions of a product in less than seven seconds—usually based on packaging alone. The weight, color, texture, and shape of a package all signal the brand’s quality and purpose before a single word is read.
With these updated laws, Canada’s cannabis leaders have the opportunity to rise above the noise, connect with customers through packaging storytelling, and build trust through transparency and thoughtful design.
Why Our Packaging Is the Perfect Fit
At The Packaging Company, we’ve been preparing for this moment.
While we’re proud to offer premium branding capabilities—like embossing, full-color print, and elegant finishes—our real edge is in the form factors themselves. Our child-resistant pre-roll tins, 5-pack and 10-pack formats, and food-grade CR aluminum tubes all offer a premium tactile experience even before the branding is applied. This means your brand can convey quality and innovation without relying solely on flashy decoration.
In short: we help your product feel high-end in the consumer’s hand. And now, with more visual flexibility, you can bring that experience full circle with packaging that looks as great as it performs.
Final Thoughts
These regulatory changes open a new chapter for Canadian cannabis brands. With more design freedom and tools to connect directly with consumers, 2025 is the year to level up.
Whether you’re an emerging brand trying to find your footing or an established player looking to push the envelope, now is the time to invest in packaging that reflects your product’s quality, your brand’s values, and your vision for the future.
Let’s build packaging that sells before the product is even opened.
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