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Definitions of vegetarian and vegan (Brazil)

While there is no specific regulation for vegetarian or vegan products, since 2005 regulatory agencies such as the Brazilian FDA (Anvisa) has published regulation that are somehow connected to the matter such as Resolution No. No. 726/2022 (applicable for vegetable products, fruit products, and edible mushrooms) and Resolution No. 839/2023 (applicable for the authorization of use of novel foods and novel ingredients). Raw vegetable products are also regulated by Federal Decree 6.268/2007. Despite the absence of a specific regulations, more broadly, the Brazilian Consumer Defense Code (Law No. 8.078/1990) establishes the right to information as a fundamental consumer right. This includes the provision of "adequate and clear information about different products and services, with correct specifications of quantity, char-acteristics, composition, quality, applicable taxes, and price, as well as the risks they may pose". In 2023, the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) initiated a Public Consultation for the regulation of plant-based products. The proposed regulation suggests that labels must include minimum information such as the expression “PLANT-BASED MEAT ANALOGUE OF,” followed by the proper name of the corresponding animal-derived product (for example, PLANT-BASED MEAT ANALOGUE OF MEAT BALL), and a statement that the product does not substitute its animal origin correspondent form a nutritional or functional perspectives. All information must be provided in Portuguese although we have translated into English just for reference of readers.

This is general information rather than legal advice and is current as of 30 May 2024. We recommend you contact a specialised food lawyer for legal advice for your particular circumstances to support commercial decisions which could impact your product or business.


Gustavo Swenson Caetano

Brazil
Mattos Filho