Colombia's Law on Ultra-Processed Foods and Sugary Ultra-Processed Beverages ('Junk Food Law')

The policy aims to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and sugary beverages that contribute to obesity and non-communicable diseases. The law mandates clear front-of-package warning labels on products that exceed established thresholds for sugar, sodium, or saturated fat. It also restricts advertising and marketing of these products to children and limits their sale in schools and other public institutions. By providing simple visual information, the policy enables consumers to make healthier choices and encourages the food industry to reformulate its products.

The policy emerged in response to growing health concerns over obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases linked to the increasing consumption of UPFs in Colombia. The government collaborated with public health organisations, nutrition experts, and civil society groups, including the coalition 'Red PaPaz', which advocated for the right to transparent nutritional information. Scientific evidence and international experiences from countries such as Chile and Mexico guided the development of the law. Colombia`s Congress approved the 'Ley Comida Chatarra', originally passed in December 2022; the law came into force on 1 November 2023. The law also introduces a levy of 10% on UPFs from November 2023 and will rise to 15% in 2024 and 20% in 2025.

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the law, including compliance with front-of-package labelling standards and advertising restrictions. Regular inspections and reviews are conducted in coordination with consumer protection authorities and public health agencies. The policy also includes a mechanism for monitoring its health impact and evaluating reductions in the consumption of unhealthy products over time.

This law makes Colombia one of the first countries globally to impose taxes on UPFs. Implementation has included the introduction of mandatory black octagonal front-of-package warning labels stating 'High in Sugar', 'High in Sodium', or 'High in Saturated Fat'. Advertising and promotional materials targeting minors have been restricted, and public awareness campaigns have been launched to support understanding of the new labels. Early assessments suggest an increase in consumer awareness about unhealthy food choices and some reformulations by manufacturers to reduce nutrient levels below the warning thresholds. Challenges remain, particularly regarding enforcement, industry resistance, and balancing the economic interests of the food sector with public health priorities.

https://www.globalfoodresearchprogram.org/where-we-work/colombia/