Discover quality goods that celebrate our heritage.
Discover quality goods that celebrate our heritage.
Made in Canada vs. Product of Canada: What’s the Difference?
When shopping for Canadian goods, you may have noticed two different labels: “Made in Canada” and “Product of Canada.” While they sound similar, they have distinct meanings based on government regulations. Understanding these differences helps consumers make informed decisions about supporting Canadian products.
The “Product of Canada” label means that a product is almost entirely Canadian. Specifically, at least 98% of the total direct costs of production (including ingredients, labor, and manufacturing) must come from Canada. This label is the highest standard of Canadian content, ensuring that nearly all materials and processing occur within the country.
For example, a jar of honey labeled “Product of Canada” would mean that the honey was harvested in Canada, processed in Canada, and nearly all of its ingredients and packaging originated from Canadian sources.
The “Made in Canada” designation has a lower threshold for Canadian content. A product can carry this label if at least 51% of the total direct costs of production occur in Canada. However, it must also include a disclaimer stating that it contains imported ingredients, such as “Made in Canada with domestic and imported ingredients.”
This label ensures that while some aspects of production happen outside Canada, the majority of processing still takes place domestically. For instance, a loaf of bread might be labeled “Made in Canada” if it was baked in Canada but contained flour imported from another country.
Being aware of these distinctions allows you to make conscious buying decisions while ensuring you are truly supporting Canadian industry. Next time you shop, take a moment to check the label—it makes a difference!
At The Proud Canadian, we are dedicated to showcasing the best of Canadian products. We believe in supporting local artisans and businesses to help promote a vibrant Canadian economy.
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