Argentina: Regulating the marketing of processed and ultra-processed food and drink products (WHO Results Report 2022)

WHO Mid-Term Results Report 2022-2023 Country Impact Story

Argentina has a growing prevalence of overweight and obesity associated with unhealthy diet-related diseases affecting all age groups. This has led to increased morbidity and mortality. The nutritional transition is largely driven by the increase in demand and supply of processed and ultra-processed foods easily available in the country. To address this, PAHO/WHO Argentina, together with the regional office, supported the national authorities in Argentina in developing, adopting, and implementing the healthy eating law (No 27642), incorporating the best practices on front-of-package warning labels and adopting the food classification tools agreed by PAHO/WHO Member States. This work also safeguarded the policy space from conflicts of interest and interference from industry, ensuring sustainability in the practice and maintaining vigilance in front-of-package labelling standards. After the law’s adoption in December 2021 and following support from PAHO/WHO in its implementation, as of September 2022, octagonal front-of-package labels are now visible citing excess levels of sugars, sodium, fats, and additives to educate consumers before they make their choices.

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