Transforming food environments, a comparative analysis of public policies in Mexico and Chile

Abstract

Objective: Compare the public food policies implemented in Mexico and Chile to transform their food environments into healthier, more sustainable ones. Methods: A comparative documentary analysis was conducted on 18 official food policy documents (2010-2024) and NDCs (2015-2022), which were obtained from government records and the UNFCCC. The analysis categorized food system strategies according to regulatory scope and approach. Results: Both countries implemented similar strategies, such as octagonal front-of-package labeling and taxes on sugary drinks, which highlight food deserts that affect marginalized populations. Mexico passed the General Law on Adequate and Sustainable Food in 2024, creating SISAMAC, while Chile launched the ENSSA in 2023 with 84 measures. The NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions) demonstrate divergent trajectories. Mexico developed a systemic conceptualization of food security as climate justice, while Chile maintained its focus on nature-based solutions. Conclusions: Regulatory policies have reduced the purchase of unhealthy products, which has the potential to reduce environmental footprints. However, there is no evidence of positive changes in health indicators (overweight/obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia) in the general population. The regulatory frameworks in Mexico and Chile offer adaptable models for the regional transformation of food systems. However, they require multidimensional monitoring systems to evaluate their long-term effectiveness and facilitate the transfer of experiences to more equitable systems in Latin America.