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Canada Boosts Vitamin D in Milk & Margarine
14 Jan
Summary
- Health Canada mandates doubling vitamin D in milk and margarine.
- One in five Canadians have insufficient vitamin D levels.
- New rules mandatory for milk and margarine by December 31, 2025.
Health Canada has mandated a significant increase in vitamin D content for milk and margarine, with new regulations becoming mandatory by December 31, 2025. This change aims to address the fact that one in five Canadians do not get enough of the essential 'sunshine' vitamin, largely due to insufficient sunlight exposure throughout much of the year.
The updated fortification strategy will see vitamin D levels more than doubled in cow's milk, increasing from approximately 2.3 micrograms to five micrograms per cup. Margarine will also see its vitamin D content nearly doubled, reaching about 13 micrograms per 50 grams. This mandatory fortification is designed as an equitable approach to benefit the entire population.
While yogurt, kefir, and plant-based beverages can voluntarily include vitamin D, the mandatory increase in milk and margarine ensures wider access. Health Canada recommends daily allowances for vitamin D that vary by age, underscoring the importance of fortified staple foods in meeting these needs, particularly during months with limited sun.
