Ecuador maintains nutritional traffic light labeling system

Ecuador continues to utilize its established nutritional labeling system, known as the ‘nutritional traffic light,’ to inform consumers about the levels of sugar, fats, and salt in processed foods and beverages. Although there have been recent discussions regarding potential updates or replacements for this model, the current system remains mandatory.

Implemented in 2014, the regulation requires companies to display horizontal color-coded bars on product packaging. The system uses red to indicate high levels, yellow for medium levels, and green for low levels of critical nutrients, including sodium. The labels must be placed in a visible area, typically the upper left corner of the main or secondary panel, to assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions.