Law, Trade, and Nutrition Labeling

The global burden of overweight and obesity is a pressing public health concern. Latin America, in particular, has high rates of consumption of sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods, making its population particularly vulnerable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). To promote healthier eating environments and habits, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have recommended that countries adopt a set of measures, including front-of-package warning labels based on the best available scientific evidence.
Several countries in the region, such as Chile, Mexico, and Peru, have adopted the octagonal warning label model, which has demonstrated its effectiveness. However, the adoption of these and other similar policies has faced significant challenges. The ultra-processed food industry has opposed these measures, citing economic, political, and legal concerns. In particular, they have frequently argued that such policies violate international trade agreements, despite the fact that international law allows for legitimate exceptions in favor of public health.
This publication contributes to the debate on the adoption of front-of-package nutrition labeling from two perspectives. First, from a legal standpoint, the authors examine the main arguments against this public health measure and provide counterarguments based on international law. Second, from a lived experience perspective, the authors recount how they successfully advocated for this public health policy in their respective countries and overcame opposition.
The book offers a perspective from the Global South on front-of-package warning labels, one of the most important obesity prevention policies in recent years. It is aimed at academics, activists, and scholars interested in the intersections of public health, law, and international trade.