Brazil tightens food safety rules and ramps up Procon restaurant inspections

Brazil’s food safety system is governed by a comprehensive set of regulations issued by ANVISA and MAPA. Key resolutions such as RDC 216/2004 on good manufacturing practices for food services, RDC 275/2002 on standardized operating procedures for food industries, and RDC 727/2022 on labeling requirements define hygiene standards, contaminant limits, and mandatory information on packaging.

In the state of Rio de Janeiro, Procon‑RJ carries out regular inspections of restaurants in the Serrana region, including Teresópolis. Inspectors verify product expiration dates, storage conditions and overall hygiene. Coordinator Rafael Bolsonaro explained, “Fazemos isso verificando a validade dos produtos e também a forma como eles são armazenados.” Most establishments meet the standards; only serious or repeated violations result in closure, while minor infractions lead to fines and corrective guidance.