Cannabis Packaging and Labelling are Getting an Update

Canadian cannabis packaging and labelling are getting a makeover in 2025. Cannabis packaging regulations in Canada have changed and now can include see-through windows, QR codes, and more flexible design options. Plus, new rules support packaging recycling and clearer product information for consumers.

Cannabis Packaging and Labelling Rules Are Changing in Canada: What You Need to Know in 2025

Imagine browsing cannabis flower packages with clear visibility of the buds inside, or selecting a single large pack of edibles instead of multiple smaller ones. These conveniences are becoming standard. New cannabis packaging and labelling regulations are set to reshape how cannabis products are presented — introducing greater transparency and more consumer-friendly options.

Here’s a breakdown of the key updates:

1. Packaging Transparency and Colour

The new rules allow for more visual access and design flexibility:

• Cut-Out Windows: Flower and seed packages can now include cut-out windows in basic geometric shapes like circles, rectangles, or squares. Multiple windows are permitted (for example, on the front and back of a pouch). This allows you to see the quality of the bud inside before buying and opening the package.
• Fully Transparent Packaging: Dried flower can now be sold in fully transparent containers. However, because light can degrade cannabis, some packages may feature transparent bottoms or partial windows to balance visibility with protection.
• Colourful Packaging: More colour options are allowed, including different colours for caps and containers.

These updates reflect a shift toward more modern cannabis packaging and labelling standards that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.

“Anything that helps consumers feel more confident about what they’re buying is a positive step for the legal market,” said Eric Williams, VP of Marketing at Organigram. “Features like windows can reduce uncertainty, build trust, and ultimately make it easier for shoppers to choose legal products over unregulated ones.”

Bradie Sparrow, Marketing Manager at Pistol and Paris, added: “Increased visibility through packaging windows plays a significant role in building consumer trust. As the saying goes, ‘seeing is believing’ — and in the cannabis market, that visibility allows consumers to verify product quality for themselves.”

2. Co-Packing Options

Cannabis producers can now co-pack a wider variety of products:

• Eligible Products: Flower, extracts, topicals, and edibles.
• What It Means: Consumers can purchase combinations like two different flower strains or multiple edible packs in one larger package.
• Limits: Co-packs may contain up to 30g of dried cannabis or its equivalent (the max total on-person carry limit). However, in the case of edibles where the limit is 10mg of THC per inner pack, outer packs can bundle up to 10 packages (which equals up to 100mg of THC). These large bundles will provide customers with more options for THC consumption.

“For SHRED, that means continuing to enhance our value equation, unlocking disruptive formats like our new 10x10 mg THC SHRED’ems Party Pack,” said Williams. “It’s a bigger, better way to deliver the flavour, potency, and price point that SHRED is known for.”

“Boxhot has introduced a new infused pre-roll multipack with our Diamond Doobies Double Trifecta,” he continued. “This first-to-market offering features 2 inner packs, each with 3 unique flavours, simultaneously creating a multipack and variety pack in the IPR [infused pre-roll] space.”

3. Labeling and Information Updates

Several changes aim to simplify and modernize product labeling:

• Recycling Symbols: Added to help consumers understand  packaging recycling options.
• Packaging Date: No longer mandatory on the outermost container of co-packs.
• QR Codes: Permitted for providing additional product information.
• Accordion and Peel-Back Labels: Allow for more detailed labeling.
• Informational Inserts: Leaflets can be included with any cannabis product.

These updates align with evolving  packaging regulations Canada has introduced to make labels more user-friendly and environmentally conscious.

“Sustainability is an ongoing priority for us, and packaging plays a big role in that,” said Williams. “While the new regulations are primarily about consumer access and information, we continue to look for ways to minimize waste and explore options that can make recycling easier.”

Sparrow echoed this sentiment: “At Pistol and Paris, we’re transitioning toward glass packaging as part of our commitment to sustainability. Glass is infinitely recyclable, making it a more environmentally responsible choice than many single-use alternatives.”

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Cannabis Branding

The new regulations Canada has introduced are more than just cosmetic — they’re a strategic shift toward a more consumer-centric and environmentally conscious industry.

“From the outset of legalization, packaging rules have made it hard to communicate beyond a name and THC range,” said Williams. “With more flexibility, we can start telling more of a brand story, creating packaging that reflects each brand’s personality.”

Sparrow added: “These packaging updates signal a shift toward greater transparency and consumer empowerment. We believe the future of cannabis branding will lean more heavily on product visibility, premium presentation, and authenticity.”

When Will These New Rules Take Effect?

The new cannabis packaging and labelling changes are being phased in now and will be fully in effect by March 12, 2026. As with many changes, Licensed Producers have the option to update their packaging according to these new regulations, or they may choose to leave their packaging unchanged. You can still expect to see both styles on shelves for a while. Retailers may continue selling products with the older labels, so the transition will be gradual.