Avoid Recalls: Label Consumer Products Correctly

Avoid Recalls: Label Consumer Products Correctly

Why Label Compliance Matters

Product recalls are a manufacturer’s worst nightmare—they’re costly, can damage your brand’s reputation, and can put consumers at risk. Keeping your product off the recall list starts with ensuring your packaging and labeling comply with all applicable consumer product safety legislation for the country you are selling to.

U.S. and Canadian Labeling Rules Are Not the Same

While both the U.S. and Canada prioritize consumer safety through regulations, their specific labeling requirements have key differences that go beyond just including French in Canada.

Missing Label Information Can Lead to Recalls

Ignorance of the labeling law is not a defense. A recent product recall highlighted this by occurring solely because mandatory hazard and label information was missing from the product regarding the statements required for flammability. This omission can lead to unintentional exposure and serious harm to consumers.

Critical Differences Between Canadian and U.S. Consumer Label Requirements

Here are some of the critical differences you need to know between Canadian and U.S. Consumer Label requirements:

Prescribed Phrases

Prescribed Phrases: Canada’s Consumer Chemical and Containers Regulations, 2001 (CCCR, 2001) mandates the use of specific, prescribed phrases that must be used exactly as written, in both English and Canadian French.

Wording Flexibility

Wording Flexibility: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is generally more lenient on the exact wording of hazard statements for some classifications.

Classification Scope

Classification Scope: The countries classify hazards differently. The CPSC has product classifications that do not exist under the CCCR in Canada, including specific requirements for substances like carcinogens, neurotoxicological toxicants & developments or reproductive toxicants.

Hazard Thresholds

Hazard Thresholds: Canada and the U.S. differ in the levels of toxicity and the thresholds at which a substance is considered hazardous, which directly impacts the required statement(s) that must go on your label.

Recall Lists Are Public

The days when recalls went largely unnoticed are over. The lists are now public and easily accessible.

Canada: https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en
U.S. (CPSC): https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls
OECD Global Portal: https://globalrecalls.oecd.org/#/

ICC Can Help Keep Your Labels Compliant

Don’t risk a recall due to a lack of knowledge about label requirements. ICC can help you. We specialize in ensuring your product is labeled correctly for the country you’re selling to, providing the appropriate label text in all required languages. Contact us today to ensure your labels are compliant and your product stays out of the headlines.

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