Price, unit price, and quantity are different fields
| Label | Meaning | Shopper check |
|---|---|---|
| each / ea. | Price for one item or package | Confirm what counts as one package |
| /100 g | Price normalized to 100 grams | Compare only with another mass price |
| /kg | Price per kilogram | Multiply by catch weight for estimated total |
| /lb | Price per pound | Convert before comparing with $/kg |
| limit | Maximum promoted quantity under stated terms | Find the after-limit price |
| save | Claimed difference from a reference price | Check package and genuine comparison |
| selected varieties | Only specified formats/flavours/sizes qualify | Match the shelf label to the exact package |
| family size | A marketing size description | Use net quantity, not the name, for comparison |
Catch-weight produce, meat, and seafood
Measurement Canada states that packaging tare must not be included in the priced food weight. The trade scale should be approved and its display visible to customers.
Example shelf label
Displayed price: $7.69/kg
Package net weight: 0.842 kg
Estimated total: $7.69 × 0.842 = $6.47498
Estimated package price: $6.47. Confirm the printed package label or checkout amount.
Package labels use metric net quantity
Canadian consumer prepackaged foods generally declare net quantity in metric units: grams or kilograms for many solids, millilitres or litres for many liquids, and count for certain foods. An additional imperial quantity may appear, but the metric declaration remains the reliable comparison anchor.
Do not compare 750 mL to 750 g as if the quantities were interchangeable. Volume and mass need a density relationship that the price label does not supply.
When the shelf and package seem inconsistent
- Match brand, product name, size, and UPC or shelf position.
- Check whether the sale starts later or has ended.
- Look for a member, coupon, or quantity condition.
- Take the package and label details to staff before checkout.
- Check the receipt while the transaction is recent.
Sources
Official sources were retrieved on August 27, 2026. Retailer and government guidance can change.