Establishments such as bars, restaurants, and snack bars throughout the state of São Paulo will no longer be able to offer sauce packets, like ketchup and mustard, for shared customer use starting this Sunday, the 4th.
The new regulation stipulates that all condiments, spices, and sauces intended for items such as sandwiches, savory snacks, pastries, and similar foods must be presented in individual portions.
This determination is based on Article 75 of Ordinance CVS No. 3, issued by the Sanitary Surveillance Center (CVS) of the State Health Secretariat of São Paulo, and will come into effect on October 4, 2026.
The main purpose of this change is to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, which occurs when microorganisms are transferred from one surface or person to another.
CVS explains that sharing containers can lead to the nozzle or tip of the packaging coming into contact with food that has already been bitten by consumers, thus facilitating the spread of microorganisms. Furthermore, the measure aims to prevent sauces from being stored for long periods under inadequate preservation conditions.
The rule does not require establishments to use only industrialized sachets, nor does it define a specific packaging format; other options for individual packaging are permitted, provided they comply with the relevant hygienic-sanitary rules. CVS clarifies that collective containers offered repeatedly to customers for applying sauces and condiments do not meet the requirement for individual portioning.
Inspection
Municipal Sanitary Surveillance teams are responsible for inspecting compliance with these sanitary standards during inspections carried out at establishments, within their competencies.
Failure to comply with the ordinance constitutes a sanitary infraction, subject to penalties provided for in the legislation, with irregularities assessed according to the specifics of each case.
Restaurants with buffet and à la carte service
According to clarifications provided by the Sanitary Surveillance Center, the obligation for individual portioning is limited to condiments, sauces, and spices used in sandwiches, savory snacks, pastries, and similar foods. Full meals are not included in the scope of Article 75.