You’re Probably Not Getting Enough Vitamin D — Here’s What Health Canada’s New Rules Mean for You

As Canadians, we spend a significant portion of the year without sufficient sunlight to naturally produce vitamin D. Health Canada estimates that one in five Canadians does not get enough vitamin D, a deficiency that becomes even more pronounced during the winter months. In response, new federal food fortification rules came into effect at the end of 2025, requiring higher levels of vitamin D in commonly consumed foods such as milk and margarine.

While this is a positive public health step, it does not eliminate the need for individualized assessment and pharmacist-led guidance, particularly for older adults, people with medical conditions, and those taking certain medications.

What Changed as of December 31, 2025?

Under Health Canada’s updated regulations:

• Cow’s milk and goat’s milk must now contain approximately 5 micrograms of vitamin D per cup, nearly double the previous amount.
• Margarine must contain about 13 micrograms per 50 grams (roughly three tablespoons).
• Yogurt, kefir, and plant-based beverages may contain vitamin D, but fortification remains voluntary for these products.

Health Canada projects that these changes could approximately double vitamin D intake across the population, improving baseline nutritional status nationwide.

Why Vitamin D Matters — Especially in Canada

Vitamin D plays a critical role in:

• Calcium absorption
• Bone and tooth strength
• Muscle function
• Fall prevention in older adults

Emerging research also suggests that low vitamin D levels may be associated with higher risk of certain autoimmune and neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis.

Because Canada’s latitude limits effective sun exposure for six to eight months of the year, relying on sunlight alone is not sufficient for most people.

Can You Get Enough Vitamin D from Food Alone?

Even with enhanced fortification, food alone may not meet daily requirements:

• Children and adults require 15 micrograms (600 IU) daily
• Older adults require 20 micrograms (800 IU) daily

At five micrograms per cup, an adult would need three to four cups of fortified milk per day to meet recommendations — an unrealistic goal for many individuals, especially those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based alternatives.

Why Pharmacist Guidance Matters

Vitamin D supplementation is safe, effective, and inexpensive, but appropriate dosing varies. Factors that may require higher or more closely monitored intake include:

• Age over 50
• Osteoporosis or fracture history
• Limited mobility or sun exposure
• Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, anticonvulsants)
• Malabsorption conditions or kidney disease

At Centrum Pharmacy, our pharmacists do more than dispense supplements. We provide individualized counselling, medication reviews, and coordinated care with the physicians at Orleans Family Health Clinic, ensuring vitamin D recommendations align with your overall health plan.

This reflects our commitment to the 4 C’s of Care:

• Complete: We assess nutrition, medications, and medical history together
• Comprehensive: We coordinate with family physicians when adjustments are needed
• Caring: We take time to explain, not just recommend
• Connected: We ensure continuity between pharmacy and primary care

Can You Take Too Much Vitamin D?

Excess vitamin D toxicity is rare and typically occurs only with prolonged high-dose supplementation, not from food sources. Health Canada sets the safe upper limit for adults at 100 micrograms (4,000 IU) per day.

This is why professional guidance matters — self-prescribing multiple supplements without review can unintentionally exceed safe limits.

Bottom Line

Health Canada’s new fortification rules are an important step forward — but they are not a substitute for personalized care.

If you are unsure whether you’re getting enough vitamin D, or whether supplementation is appropriate for you or your family, speak with a Centrum Pharmacy pharmacist. We work closely with local physicians to ensure your care is proactive, evidence-based, and connected.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.