Mexico and Chile intensify ultra‑processed food regulation battles

In Mexico, a recent international investigation documented 193 lawsuits filed by major food and beverage companies over the past 15 years to challenge health‑related regulations such as front‑of‑pack warning labels, advertising restrictions for children, and sugary‑drink taxes. Coca‑Cola led the litigation tally, followed by PepsiCo, Mondelēz, Kellogg’s, Danone and Ferrero.

Meanwhile, Chile's Senate Health Committee is preparing a new law that would require mandatory front‑of‑pack labeling for products identified as ultra‑processed and prohibit their advertising to minors under 14. Lawmakers are working to finalize the definition of “ultra‑processed” ahead of a vote expected in late July, with the World Health Organization slated to provide an official definition next year. The proposed measure aims to curb rising obesity and non‑communicable disease rates in the country.