Argentina continues to advance in the implementation of its Healthy Eating Promotion Act (Law No. 27.642), which mandates front-of-pack labeling on packaged foods and non-alcoholic beverages that exceed recommended levels of critical nutrients such as sugars, sodium, saturated fats, and calories.
On December 26, 2024, the National Administration of Drugs, Food and Medical Technology (ANMAT) published Resolutions 11362/2024 and 11378/2024, introducing a revised application manual that updates the criteria and interpretation of the law.
Key changes include:
– Exclusion of intrinsic nutrients: Nutrients naturally present in foods (e.g., fructose in fruit) are no longer counted when determining if a product must display a warning octagon.
– Electronic labeling support: Products labeled under previous versions of the law can continue to be sold until inventory runs out; future batches must comply with the new standards.
– Clarified labeling for sweeteners and caffeine: All products containing these substances must now include mandatory precautionary statements, regardless of quantity.
– Maintained PAHO thresholds: The nutrient limits established by the Pan American Health Organization remain in effect.
Exemptions:
Certain products are not subject to front-of-pack labeling requirements, including:
– Medical foods and dietary supplements
– Infant formulas and processed baby food
– Non-packaged foods or those sold in bulk
– Restaurant-prepared meals
– Minimally processed foods, such as nuts, sugar, vegetable oils, and salt
Advertising to minors:
The law prohibits marketing aimed at children under 16. However, the updated manual introduces a more flexible interpretation, stating that the mere presence of characters or colorful elements does not automatically qualify the communication as child-targeted.
At Nunes & Asociados, we continue to monitor developments in food law and regulatory compliance. For guidance on how these updates may affect your business or product line, contact our team.
🔗 Full ANMAT resolution text
🔗 Law No. 27.642 – Healthy Eating Promotion Act
