Some foods, however, contain little intrinsic nutritional value, and rely on fortification to deliver whatever value they have. Health Canada has been reviewing its policies on the addition of vitamins and minerals to foods, and will be making its recommendations, pending its analysis of public comment. Meal replacements cannot make reference, in advertisements or on labels, to vitamin or mineral supplementation. Nutritional supplements are foods sold or represented as a supplement to a diet that may be inadequate in energy and essential nutrients. Again, strict content requirements apply.
Beverages represented for use by athletes are subject to the same requirements for foods in general.
They may only claim to replace water loss and to provide carbohydrates for food energy. But they can be sold as a food. That's why you won't see health claims on products such as echinacea, for example, even though it is commonly purchased as a remedy for colds and flu. It's essential to receive all of these nutrients, in the right proportion and the right quantitites for your body. Most nutrition experts say the best way to ensure this is to eat a well-balanced diet that follows the guidelines in Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating .