Labeling of ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables sold in Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables (RTE-MPV) are vegetables subjected to several steps that modify their natural structure, while maintaining the same freshness and nutritional quality as the fresh produce. Since these products are sold in packages, they must be labeled, even though nutritional labeling is optional. Objective: The goal of this study was to assess the labeling aspects of several brands of RTE-MPV sold in Brazil, determining whether manufacturers adhered to the different types of food labeling legislation. Method: Photographic records of RTE-MPV packages were obtained in different regions of Brazil between October 2020 and August 2021, and labels were analyzed using a checklist that was prepared according to the different types of Brazilian food labeling legislation in force at the time of the study: RDC nº 259/2002, RDC nº 359/2003, RDC nº 360/2003 and Law nº 10,674/2003. Results: The labels of 288 RTE-MPV packages, belonging to 39 brands, were analyzed. Among these, 31 brands showed at least one aspect that was not in accordance with the legislation, such as the lack of information about place of origin, and the presence or absence of gluten. Although optional, most brands (38) adopted nutritional labeling, but the information was incomplete in ten of them. Conclusion: These data indicate that there are flaws in the labeling of RTE-MPV in Brazil, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to comply with the legislation. Moreover, the optional adoption of nutritional labeling by most brands is significantly important for consumers to have additional information about what they consume.