Quick answer: In Canada, most businesses that import food must hold a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The licence is part of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations, which also require preventive controls and traceability. A Canadian importer of coconut sugar is responsible for the licence, while the foreign supplier helps by providing documents that show the product was made safely.
Key takeaways – The Canadian importer, not the foreign supplier, holds the SFC licence. – Importers need preventive controls and traceability records. – Suppliers support importers with specifications, COAs, certificates and food safety information.
This article is general information. Always check the latest CFIA guidance or ask a customs or regulatory adviser.
What is the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations framework?
The Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) came into force in 2019. They set common rules for food that is imported, exported or traded between provinces. The three main pillars are:
| Pillar | What it means for importers |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Hold a valid SFC licence for importing food |
| Preventive controls | Have a plan showing how food safety hazards are controlled |
| Traceability | Keep records one step forward and one step back |
Who needs an SFC licence?
Generally, a business in Canada that imports food for sale needs a licence. There are some exceptions, so importers should confirm their situation with the CFIA. A foreign coconut sugar producer does not apply for a Canadian SFC licence, but it must be able to support its importer.
What does the importer need from the supplier?
- Product specification with physical, chemical and microbiological limits
- Certificate of analysis for each batch
- Food safety information, such as the supplier’s HACCP-based controls or certifications
- Traceability details: lot numbers on bags that match documents
- Organic certificate, if the product is sold as organic in Canada
- Labelling information for the importer to prepare bilingual English and French labels where required
What about labelling coconut sugar in Canada?
Food sold to consumers in Canada usually needs labels in both English and French, including the common name, net quantity, ingredient list, nutrition facts table where applicable, and the name and address of the responsible Canadian dealer. For bulk ingredients sold business-to-business, labelling requirements can differ. Importers should check the CFIA’s Industry Labelling Tool.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
- Importing before the licence is active
- Lot numbers on bags that do not match the COA
- Missing or expired organic certificates for products sold as organic
- No written preventive control plan for imported products
How can IMC support Canadian importers?
PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) can provide product specifications, batch COAs, lot information and the certificates that apply to our coconut sugar. Tell us early that your shipment is for Canada, so documents can be prepared before loading.
Frequently asked questions
Does a foreign supplier need an SFC licence? No. The Canadian importer holds the licence.
When did the SFCR come into force? In 2019.
Do bulk ingredients need bilingual labels? Requirements differ for consumer and business sales. Check CFIA guidance.
What documents should a coconut sugar supplier provide? Specification, COA, food safety information, traceability data and relevant certificates.
PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) has produced organic coconut sugar in Central Java, Indonesia, since 2012. For specifications or samples, email info@organic-coconut-sugar.com or WhatsApp +62 811 880 62273.
Sources: Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Safe Food for Canadians Regulations guidance.
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