Frequently Asked Questions about Preclearance of Food and Non-alcoholic Beverage Advertising

 

What services does Ad Standards provide?

  • Review of food and non-alcoholic broadcast, print and digital advertising copy
  • Consultation services for new product launches or new advertising concepts

How will I know my copy has been approved?

Your approved submission will be sent back to you with a 10-character lifetime Ad Standards approval number (with the exception of commercials making a claim that the product is new, where the number is only valid for one year). This number signifies to broadcasters that the copy has been approved.

How do I submit copy?

  • Step 1 Go to the e-Clearance login page
  • Step 2 Login or Create a new account
  • Step 3 Enter your submissions online. (For copies in languages other than English or French, please provide a translation.)

How long does it take to make an evaluation?

Regular service: Two business days* from receipt of copy
Priority service: One business day* from receipt of copy
Express service: Copy received by noon, returned by five**

How long does it take to make an evaluation for a script with health claims?

Regular service: Four business days* from receipt of copy
Priority service: Two business days* from receipt of copy
Express service: One business day* from receipt of copy**

* One business day is equal to 24 hours (business days only)
** Express service is not available for consultations

What criteria are used to clear copy?

  • Food and Drugs Act and Regulations
  • the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Food Labelling for Industry (CFIA Industry Labelling Tool)

Who can I talk to about copy clearance?

To reach a member of the Clearance Services team, call 416-961-6311, ext. 3 or email clearance@adstandards.ca.

Do I need clearance by any other bodies?

Ad Standards Clearance Services reviews advertising in six regulated areas to ensure compliance with specific sectoral legislation, regulations, codes and guidelines. For television advertising, in addition to obtaining an Ad Standards Clearance number, prior to airing, commercials must be approved by thinktv to ensure their standards are met. Contact thinktv for complete details.

thinktv clearance provides commercial review services for its broadcaster members.

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