Bolivia Analyses New Labelling Provisions

By PPO Abogados

Between July and August, Bolivia conducted field research studies to evaluate the effectiveness and future implementation of front-of-pack nutrition labeling on food products. The research looked to determine if front-of-pack nutrition labeling on food products helps consumers to be more aware of the potential harmful effects of a product and to choose healthier alternatives. 

Currently, Bolivia is in the process of implementing a law aimed at promoting healthy eating habits. It will impose regulations of marketing and labeling of processed foods and nonalcoholic beverages. 

Among other things, the law will state that all processed foods and nonalcoholic beverages must be labelled with a chart that lists the levels of saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium. It's still unclear where such chart will be positioned.

The law also introduces a color-coded labelling system, by which consumers determine whether a product is “very high in,” “contains a moderate amount of,” or is “low in” saturated fats, added sugars, and/or sodium. 

Processed food packaging will possibly display one or more of the following messages: “consume iodized salt, sugar, and fats with moderation”, “the consumption of fruits and vegetables improves your health”, “perform at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity”, or “drink ten glasses of water per day.”  

Aditionally, products containing trans fats will display a warning with the words “contains trans fats” inside an hexagon.

Foods and nonalcoholic beverages in their natural state such as raw sugar, salt, and oil will be excluded from these labeling requirements.