Bill C-224
Report stage · Commons
An Act to amend the Food and Drugs Act (natural health products)
This bill would reverse recent Health Canada regulations that increased fees and restrictions on natural health products like vitamins, herbal remedies, and probiotics.
Sponsor · Blaine Calkins
What it means for you
Canadians who buy vitamins, supplements, and natural health products could see lower prices and more options on store shelves.
The debate · 6 points
Supporters say
- The 2023 changes placed natural health products under the same rules as prescription drugs, which supporters say is a poor fit for everyday vitamins, minerals and supplements.
- The changes were added to a large budget bill without public consultation, and supporters note that over 80% of Canadians use these products.
- New licensing, labelling, fees and penalties would raise costs for small Canadian businesses, which supporters say provide tens of thousands of jobs.
Critics say
- Removing the 2023 rules would take away Health Canada's power to order recalls, require safety information and impose penalties when a natural health product poses a serious risk.
- Voluntary compliance may not be enough. Critics argue the regulator needs legal authority to act when a manufacturer refuses to recall a contaminated product.
- Even low-risk products can interact with prescription medications. Pharmacists say patients, especially older adults and pregnant people, need reliable safety information and oversight.
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