Mexico Advances Food, Agriculture, and Health Initiatives

Mexico could ban the sale of energy drinks to minors, citing health risks and rising consumption. Meanwhile, Mexico City launched the first native corn tortilla shop as part of a plan to achieve corn self-sufficiency.

This is the week in Agribusiness and Food!

Mexico Moves to Ban Energy Drinks for Minors

Mexico is considering a ban on the sale of energy drinks to minors due to health risks such as addiction, cardiovascular problems, and hyperactivity, with proposed fines of up to MX$200,000 for violations. The initiative, approved unanimously by the Health Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, responds to a sharp increase in energy drink consumption among children and adolescents and highlights the stimulants and sugars in these beverages that pose particular risks to developing bodies. Experts recommend limiting caffeine intake from safer sources, noting that the ban targets minors without affecting adult consumption, and aims to address public health concerns while parents support the measure.

Mexico City Aims to Achieve Corn Self-Sufficiency

Mexico City has opened its first tortilla shop specializing in native corn as part of a broader effort to achieve corn self-sufficiency and strengthen local agricultural production, supported by over MX$1 billion in investment. The initiative is linked to a strategic alliance between the city’s Ministry of Environment (SEDEMA) and UACh to protect conservation land, increase native corn production, and promote agroecological and medicinal plant projects in local communities. By connecting producers directly with consumers, offering GMO-free tortillas and corn products at fair prices, the program aims to enhance food sovereignty, preserve native corn diversity, and support rural economies while providing training and research opportunities for students.

ANPEC Warns Against Tax Hikes Amid Food Inflation

The National Alliance of Small Merchants (ANPEC) warned that proposed tax increases on sugary drinks and cigarettes could drive informal sales and harm small businesses amid rising food inflation, with some households spending nearly 90% of their income on food. The 2026 Economic Package proposes doubling the tax on sweetened beverages and raising cigarette taxes, measures justified by public health goals but potentially increasing contraband and jeopardizing thousands of small stores and jobs. ANPEC emphasized that education, support for small businesses, and fiscal stability are more effective solutions than punitive taxes for changing consumption habits and protecting the popular economy.

Mexico, Germany Advance Sustainable Agri-Food Systems

The Mexican Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) and German Technical Cooperation (GIZ) reaffirmed their commitment to transforming Mexico’s agri-food systems to be more sustainable, socially just, and resilient to climate change through the Proyecto Vida y Campo. Starting in 2026, SADER will implement a certification for agro-exports free from deforestation and irregular labor practices, emphasizing fair, formalized work rather than informal, risky labor. The initiative strengthens producer capacities, fosters interinstitutional collaboration, and improves access to digital tools, with support from international partners including FAO, IICA, and UNDP

Ministry of Health, UAM Launch Food Sovereignty Initiative

The Mexican Ministry of Health (SSA) and Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) held their first meeting to develop a framework agreement promoting strategic projects in food sovereignty, with a focus on public health and social equity. Discussions centered on addressing obesity and malnutrition, encouraging the consumption of healthy, culturally appropriate foods, and creating production and distribution models that strengthen national food sovereignty. The collaboration aims to combine academic research, innovation, and evidence-based policy to transform Mexico’s food system, ensuring access to nutritious, high-quality food for all citizens.