Chile has introduced a new law regarding food labeling, with the goal of combating obesity, particularly minors.
The legislation aims to provide consumers with clear and understandable information through warning signs clearly visible on the main side of the packaging of food products.
The symbol “Alto en” or “High in” (a stop sign on a black background) warns that the product exceeds the sodium, saturated fats, sugars and carbohydrates limits established by the Ministry of Health.
Products bearing this symbol may not be marketed in schools and colleges, and their advertising is prohibited, as well as the inclusion of promotional gadgets intended for children under 14 years of age.
Initially, the measure applied only to large companies, but in 35 months time micro and small productive units must also implement the new system.
Chile is the second most obese country in Latin America, and has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity, according to the United Nations Organization for Food and Agriculture (FAO).
© 2016 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Branislav Pekic. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
