Brazil Updates Regulations on Food Supplements: Key Changes You Need to Know

In a recent development, Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) has announced significant revisions to the regulations governing food supplements. The newly published IN No 284 Directive, as detailed in a government gazette on March 8, 2024, introduces several noteworthy amendments aimed at enhancing the management of food supplements and ensuring consumer safety. Let's delve into the key changes brought about by these revisions.

Revised Nutrient List and Minimum Additive Requirements:

One of the primary modifications involves the revision of Annex 3, which pertains to the list of nutrients that must be provided to consumers in the form of food supplements. In this update, the term "anthocyanin" has been revised to "cranberry anthocyanin." Additionally, the minimum additive requirement for the probiotic supplement Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (DSM 33156) has been established. For the age group of 0-6 years, the minimum recommended additive amount is set at 10 to the power of 10 CFU per single serving.

Allowable Claims for Supplements:

Annex 5, which deals with the permissible claims for food supplements, has also undergone revisions. For instance, the probiotic strain Lactobacillus NCC 4007 can now make the claim of "supporting gastrointestinal health," provided that the quantity added meets the requirements specified in Annex 3.

Labeling Requirements:

The revised regulations also introduce changes to Annex 6, which governs the labeling of food supplements. A notable addition is the requirement for supplements containing resveratrol to include a warning statement on the label stating that the product should not be consumed by pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children. These revised guidelines will come into effect from April 1, 2024.

The recent updates to Brazil's food supplement regulations, as announced by ANVISA, reflect the country's commitment to ensuring the safety and proper management of these products. By revising the nutrient list, setting minimum additive requirements, allowing specific claims, and implementing labeling guidelines, Brazil aims to provide consumers with accurate information and maintain high standards in the food supplement industry. These regulatory revisions will play a crucial role in safeguarding consumer health and promoting transparency in the market.