Vegan and Vegetarian Food Claims
Colombia does not currently have a specific legal definition or a dedicated regulatory framework for “vegan”, “vegetarian” or plant-based claims. Instead, these claims are assessed under the general food labeling and consumer protection framework, primarily set out in Resolution 5109 of 2005 and Law 1480 of 2011 (Consumer Protection Statute). In practice, companies must ensure that product composition, ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes adequately support such claims.
The Colombian market has experienced steady growth in plant-based products, particularly in meat and dairy alternatives. While private vegan certifications are becoming increasingly common, they are not legally required. Companies should pay particular attention when these claims are combined with nutrition or health-related statements, as additional requirements may apply under Resolution 810 of 2021.
Food Fortification and Dietary Supplements
Food fortification remains an important public health policy tool in Colombia. The country recently strengthened its regulatory framework through Decree 380 of 2026, which introduced mandatory fortification requirements for certain staple foods, including rice and selected flours. As a result, manufacturers and importers should verify compliance with applicable micronutrient requirements before placing these products on the market.
Dietary supplements are regulated as a separate category under Decree 3249 of 2006 and require sanitary registration with INVIMA. One of the most relevant considerations for foreign companies is proper product classification, as formulation, dosage levels and promotional claims may determine whether a product is regulated as a dietary supplement, a conventional food or even a pharmaceutical product.
Cannabis and CBD in Food Products
Colombia has developed one of the most advanced regulatory frameworks in Latin America for medicinal and industrial cannabis, principally through Law 1787 of 2016 and Decree 811 of 2021. However, the existence of this framework does not mean that cannabis-derived ingredients can be freely incorporated into foods or dietary supplements.
In practice, products containing CBD are assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as ingredient source, THC content and intended use. Companies interested in developing CBD-containing food products should conduct a preliminary regulatory assessment to determine commercial feasibility and avoid product classification challenges.
Novel Foods and Innovative Ingredients
Unlike some jurisdictions, Colombia does not currently have a specific authorization pathway for novel foods. Nevertheless, innovative ingredients must comply with the general food safety requirements established under Law 9 of 1979 and Resolution 2674 of 2013, and may, in certain cases, require technical review by INVIMA.
From a business perspective, Colombia offers attractive opportunities for innovative food products, including alternative proteins, fermentation-derived ingredients and functional food components. However, a successful market-entry strategy often depends on early verification of product classification, ingredient acceptability and the supporting evidence required to demonstrate safety.
Food Labelling and Claims
Food labeling is currently one of the most relevant regulatory areas for food businesses in Colombia. Packaged foods must comply with the general labeling requirements set out in Resolution 5109 of 2005, as well as the nutrition labeling and front-of-pack warning requirements established by Resolution 810 of 2021, as amended by Resolution 2492 of 2022. In addition, Law 2120 of 2021 introduced measures aimed at strengthening consumer information and promoting healthier food choices.
For companies entering the Colombian market, compliance extends beyond physical packaging. Authorities increasingly expect consistency across labels, websites, e-commerce platforms, advertising materials and social media communications, particularly when nutrition, health or comparative claims are used.
Market Access
The commercialization of food products in Colombia is subject to the sanitary authorization system administered by INVIMA. Depending on the product’s risk classification, as established under Resolution 719 of 2015, companies may be required to obtain a sanitary registration, sanitary permit or sanitary notification before placing products on the market. This framework applies equally to domestically manufactured and imported products.
For foreign companies, the Colombian regulatory framework is generally considered predictable and accessible when regulatory planning is undertaken at an early stage. A prior review of product classification, ingredients, labeling requirements and commercialization strategy can significantly facilitate market access and reduce potential delays during the authorization process
