The Chilean food labelling law

To promote healthier choices among consumers by providing clear, visible warnings about unhealthy products by introducing a pioneere food labeling law in 2016, requiring black warning labels on packaged foods high in calories, sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. In addition to labeling, the law included restrictions on marketing these products to children and bans on sales in schools.

The Chilean Food Labeling Law (Ley de Etiquetado) was driven by a growing public health crisis in Chile, with rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). By 2016, over 60% of the Chilean population was overweight or obese, and NCDs, particularly those related to poor dietary habits, were a leading cause of death. Chile had one of the highest obesity rates in Latin America, particularly among children, prompting the government to seek bold measures to curb unhealthy eating behaviors

The primary government body responsible for implementing and enforcing the law - Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud) and Government-appointed bodies conduct regular audits of food manufacturers and distributors to verify that the labeling is correctly applied. Random spot checks of food products in supermarkets and stores are part of the oversight process, ensuring companies follow the rules regarding labeling and marketing restrictions

The Chilean Food Labeling Law has been implemented in several practical ways in the daily operations of the food industry, schools, and regulatory bodies by Product Labeling: Front-of-pack labelling for all foods that exceed the established limit of critical nutrients, Marketing and Advertising Compliance: Products banned from being advertised to children on television or the Internet, Commercial enticements associated with labelled foods, including stickers, games or cartoons, are banned by the law, School Food Environments: Labelled products banned from being sold in schools. Studies have demonstrated a decrease in the purchase and consumption of foods and beverages with black warning labels, particularly sugary drinks and snacks. One study found a 23.7% reduction in the purchase of beverages high in sugar within two years of the law’s implementation. Any undesired effects - Some food companies initially resisted the regulations, arguing that the law was too restrictive or that it could hurt profits. However, over time, many companies adapted by reformulating their products or adjusting marketing strategies.

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