Rotulagem nutricional: avaliação da conformidade dos rótulos de leite em pó frente à legislação brasileira, comercializados em supermercados da cidade de Recife-PE

Abstract

Milk is an essential food for human development, as it is rich in proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals, which are important for disease prevention. Contributing to the formation of bones, muscles, teeth, it helps growth and regulates the nervous system, increases resistance to infectious diseases, awakens appetite and facilitates digestion. Nutritional labeling is an important tool for clarifying the functional properties of foods, establishing a means of communication between the consumer and the product, whose function is to guide the consumer in decision-making regarding healthy food choices at the time of purchase. The practice of proper eating habits, in addition to providing a healthier life, helps to prevent the onset of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension. The objective of this study was to identify the standard of compliance on the labels of powdered milk with the current Brazilian legislation in resolutions and decrees (RDC 259/2002; RDC 359/2003; RDC 360/2003; RDC 136/2017; DC 429/2020 ; Decree-Law 986/1969; Law No. 8.078/1990; Law 10.674/2003) of ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency). This research analyzed thirteen (13) powdered milk labels from nine (9) different brands sold in three supermarkets in the city of Recife-PE. It was found that all labels analyzed were in compliance with the aforementioned legislation, with the exception of six (6; 46.15%), which were not in accordance with RDC 259/2002 in relation to the batch identification item. It was concluded that, although the Brazilian legislation for food labeling is being obeyed by companies, it still needs some adjustments in relation to the norms referring to the non-conforming item as batch identification. Food labeling plays a fundamental role in the lives of consumers, ensuring that the consumption of the product meets their needs in a safe way.