How to Notify Food Supplements in Latvia
It is legally required to notify the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) if you intend to sell food supplements in Latvia. This procedure guarantees that your products adhere to local Latvian safety, labeling, and composition standards as well as EU regulations. This 2025 guide from BF-Esse helps you launch your product effectively and legally by outlining the precise procedures for registering your food supplement in Latvia, from preparing documentation to submitting your notification.
Step 1: Become a Registered Food Business Operator in Latvia
Before you can legally sell food supplements in Latvia, you must first register as a food business operator (FBO). This is a mandatory requirement under both EU Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 and Latvian national law.
Food companies in Latvia, such as distributors, importers, and owners of food supplement brands, are required to report their operations to the PVD. By registering, you attest that you follow hygienic guidelines and are subject to inspections within the regulated food supply chain.
How to Register:
The application for food business registration can be submitted online via the
official Food and Veterinary Sevice :
Register your food business directly with the PVD here.
This e-service allows you to notify the PVD about the start of your food-related business operations. The registration is typically processed within 5 to 10 working days if the documentation is complete.
Tip: If you are based outside Latvia but want to sell here, you can appoint a local representative or partner with a Latvian-based contract manufacturer like BF‑Esse, which already holds valid operator status.
How to Register:
The application for food business registration can be submitted online via the
official Food and Veterinary Sevice :
Register your food business directly with the PVD here.
This e-service allows you to notify the PVD about the start of your food-related business operations. The registration is typically processed within 5 to 10 working days if the documentation is complete.
Tip: If you are based outside Latvia but want to sell here, you can appoint a local representative or partner with a Latvian-based contract manufacturer like BF‑Esse, which already holds valid operator status.
Step 2: Secure a Licensed Storage Solution for Food Supplements
(Tip: Start this in parallel with Step 1)
A legitimate storage solution for your food supplements should be obtained at the same time that you register with the PVD as a food business operator (see Step 1). In fact, if your business does not have a compliance handling or storage plan in place, the PVD may refuse your registration.
Latvian law requires that all food supplements must be stored in approved facilities—either your own or through a certified logistics partner.
Latvian law requires that all food supplements must be stored in approved facilities—either your own or through a certified logistics partner.
Two Options for Storage Compliance:
Option 1: Operate Your Own Licensed Warehouse If your company controls its own warehouse or stock facility in Latvia, it must:
Option 2: Partner with a Licensed Storage Provider
Many companies choose to sign a contract with a certified third-party that already has the necessary food supplement handling licenses. This is especially common for:
Foreign companies entering the Latvian market
Startups without infrastructure
Online brands focused on marketing/sales
Pro Tip: When you submit your food business registration (Step 1), include your storage agreement (or warehouse registration) upfront to avoid delays in approval.
Option 1: Operate Your Own Licensed Warehouse If your company controls its own warehouse or stock facility in Latvia, it must:
- Be officially registered with the PVD
- Comply with food-grade storage standards
- Pass initial and routine inspections
Option 2: Partner with a Licensed Storage Provider
Many companies choose to sign a contract with a certified third-party that already has the necessary food supplement handling licenses. This is especially common for:
Foreign companies entering the Latvian market
Startups without infrastructure
Online brands focused on marketing/sales
Pro Tip: When you submit your food business registration (Step 1), include your storage agreement (or warehouse registration) upfront to avoid delays in approval.
Storage Solutions from BF-EssE
BF‑Esse, based in Rīga, provides full-service support with:
- PVD-approved storage and logistics
- Licensed food supplement production
- Regulatory assistance for notifications and labeling
Step 3: Prepare the Marking (Label) Text of Your Food Supplement
Once your company is registered and licensed, you can begin preparing to notify individual food supplements with the PVD.
At this stage, you’ll need to submit a marking text—a precise, legally compliant version of what will appear on your product label and outer packaging.
Note: This section does not cover the process of obtaining a finished formula (FC) or manufacturing your product. We focus strictly on the registration requirements for labeling and notification.
What the Marking Text Must Include: The PVD expects your marking text to reflect all key information that will appear on the label in Latvian (and optionally other languages), following both EU Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 and national supplement-specific rules.
Here are the mandatory elements:
At this stage, you’ll need to submit a marking text—a precise, legally compliant version of what will appear on your product label and outer packaging.
Note: This section does not cover the process of obtaining a finished formula (FC) or manufacturing your product. We focus strictly on the registration requirements for labeling and notification.
What the Marking Text Must Include: The PVD expects your marking text to reflect all key information that will appear on the label in Latvian (and optionally other languages), following both EU Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 and national supplement-specific rules.
Here are the mandatory elements:
What Does a Compliant Food Supplement Label Look Like in Latvia?
As an example we will use:
BF‑Esse’s Magnesium + B6 Complex — a product notified with the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) in full compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 1169/2011 and local supplement laws.
This example shows how each element of a food supplement label must be presented to pass registration. All mandatory information — such as dosage, health claims, ingredient list, and contact details — is clearly printed and in Latvian.
In the guide below, we break the label into parts and explain what each section means, and why it's required for the PVD notification.
As an example we will use:
BF‑Esse’s Magnesium + B6 Complex — a product notified with the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) in full compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 1169/2011 and local supplement laws.
This example shows how each element of a food supplement label must be presented to pass registration. All mandatory information — such as dosage, health claims, ingredient list, and contact details — is clearly printed and in Latvian.
In the guide below, we break the label into parts and explain what each section means, and why it's required for the PVD notification.
ATOMIC MG B6 mock-up, one of the branded BF-EssE products
Magnesium is one of the most popular food supplements in Europe, known for supporting muscle and nerve function.
BF‑Esse manufactures EU-compliant magnesium formulas in Rīga, including Magnesium + B6, and assists with full regulatory support in Latvia.
BF‑Esse manufactures EU-compliant magnesium formulas in Rīga, including Magnesium + B6, and assists with full regulatory support in Latvia.
What Each Side of the Packaging Must Include (According to Latvian PVD Requirements)
Front Side of the Packaging
What must be shown:
What must be shown:
- Brand name — e.g., “ATOMIC Mg B6”
- Product form — e.g., “Food Supplement” or “Capsules”
- Net quantity — e.g., “30 capsules”
- Short, approved description or claim only
- Example: “Magnesium and Vitamin B6 formula”
Front side of the product marking
Side 1
Side Panel 1: Usage Instructions & Course Duration
What should be shown:
What should be shown:
- Recommended daily intake — e.g., “Take 1 capsule per day”
- Recommended course length (optional but helpful)
- Example: “Recommended course: 2–3 months, repeat as needed”
- This section helps the consumer understand how to use the supplement safely and effectively.
Side Panel 2: Full Ingredient List & Warnings
What must be shown:
not juts magnsium but magnesium oxide ,
List must be in descending order by weight per daily dose
Example:
as an example Red rice extract, Monacolin K
What must be shown:
- Full ingredient list with its chemical name
not juts magnsium but magnesium oxide ,
List must be in descending order by weight per daily dose
Example:
- Magnesium oxide, gelatine (caps shell material) e.s.o
- Additives and excipients must be declared, including capsule shell
- Mandatory warnings, such as:
- “Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.”
- “Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet.”
- “Keep out of reach of children.”
- “Storage conditions.”
- Disclaimers:
as an example Red rice extract, Monacolin K
- Avoid unapproved phrasing like “Safe for everyone” or “No side effects.”
Side 2
Side 3
Side Panel 3: Traceability, Expiry & Packaging Symbols
What must be shown:
Batch number (LOT) - Partijas Nr.:
Used for quality control and recalls. Mandatory for all food supplements.
What must be shown:
Batch number (LOT) - Partijas Nr.:
Used for quality control and recalls. Mandatory for all food supplements.
- Expiration date (Best before) - Ieteicams līdz or Ieteicams līdz beigām:
- Must be clear and readable.
- In some countries (not Latvia), the manufacture date is also required — especially for export or customs declarations. Check market-specific rules if you plan to sell outside Latvia.
- EAN / Barcode
- Standardized GS1 barcode for retail and inventory systems. Usually printed in black on white background.
- Recycling / Material symbols
- Required for packaging identification and sustainability labeling.
- In your case:
- PAP 21 – Paper/cardboard (outer carton)
- C/PVC 90 – Composite plastic (blister or inner pouch)
- These symbols are regulated under EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive and help with consumer recycling behavior.
Side Panel 4: Product Identification & Responsible Organization
This side of the package must include essential regulatory and contact information to ensure consumer awareness and market compliance.
Mandatory Elements:
This side of the package must include essential regulatory and contact information to ensure consumer awareness and market compliance.
Mandatory Elements:
- Product Classification:
- Clearly state that the item is a Food Supplement. This is a legal requirement under EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.
- Pack Size Declaration:
- Indicate the exact number of units in the package — e.g., “30 capsules” or “20 sachets”. This must match the actual content.
- Country of Manufacture:
- State origin with EU context. Example:
- “Manufactured in the European Union, or you declare the country like for example in Latvia”
- Responsible Business Operator:
- Include the full legal name and address of the company responsible for the product on the EU market. For example:
- “Responsible organization: SIA FRINA, BF‑ESSE brand
- Brīvības gatve 369 k‑2, LV‑1024, Riga, Latvia”
- Contact Information (Recommended):
- Although not strictly mandatory, it is considered good practice — and improves consumer trust — to provide at least one contact method:
- Website: www.bfesse.lv
- Email: info@bfesse.lv
- This section helps authorities, distributors, and consumers trace the source of the product, fulfill regulatory expectations, and facilitate any needed inquiries.
Side 4
Back Panel: Product Description, Health Claims & Nutritional Information
What must be shown:
Product description
What must be shown:
Product description
- Short explanation of what the product is and what it supports.
- Example: “Magnesium and Vitamin B6 contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system and help reduce tiredness and fatigue.”
ATOMIC MG B6 double language back side of the package
Use only EFSA-approved health claims (per EU Register).
Health claims (must be phrased exactly as approved)
Examples:
Nutritional information table
This must show:
Amount per recommended daily dose, not per capsule
Nutrient Per 1 capsule NRV*
Magnesium 350 mg 93,3%
Vitamin B6 5 mg 357%
*NRV = Nutrient Reference Value per EU Regulation 1169/2011
Clarification of dosage if flexible
Health claims (must be phrased exactly as approved)
Examples:
- “Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function”
- “Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism”
Nutritional information table
This must show:
Amount per recommended daily dose, not per capsule
- (e.g., if daily dose = 2 capsules, show total per 2 caps)
- %NRV — Nutrient Reference Value
Nutrient Per 1 capsule NRV*
Magnesium 350 mg 93,3%
Vitamin B6 5 mg 357%
*NRV = Nutrient Reference Value per EU Regulation 1169/2011
Clarification of dosage if flexible
- “Recommended daily dose: 1–3 capsules. Nutrient values below reflect one caps and full daily intake (3 capsules) max ammount.”
Step 4: Submit the Label Text and Mockup to the PVD.
Once your food supplement label (marking text) is complete and fully compliant, the final step is to
submit your product for notification with the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD).
How to Submit:
Send the marking text in Latvian (and any other languages used on the packaging)
Include a visual mockup (PDF or image) of the actual label or box
Submit either:
By email to the official PVD inbox
Through their electronic submission system (for registered users)
Government Notification Fee:
A state fee must be paid for each notified food supplement. The current fee is regulated by Latvian law and may vary slightly, but is typically around EUR 100–150 per product.
Include proof of payment (PDF or screenshot) with your submission to avoid processing delays.
Review Timeline:
Once submitted, the PVD has up to 30 calendar days to review your application. During this time, they may:
Once the product is accepted:
Once your food supplement label (marking text) is complete and fully compliant, the final step is to
submit your product for notification with the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD).
How to Submit:
Send the marking text in Latvian (and any other languages used on the packaging)
Include a visual mockup (PDF or image) of the actual label or box
Submit either:
By email to the official PVD inbox
Through their electronic submission system (for registered users)
Government Notification Fee:
A state fee must be paid for each notified food supplement. The current fee is regulated by Latvian law and may vary slightly, but is typically around EUR 100–150 per product.
Include proof of payment (PDF or screenshot) with your submission to avoid processing delays.
Review Timeline:
Once submitted, the PVD has up to 30 calendar days to review your application. During this time, they may:
- Approve the product
- Request corrections
- Ask for additional documentation (e.g., label adjustments or ingredient clarifications)
Once the product is accepted:
- You will receive a notification confirmation
- Your food supplement is now legally allowed for sale on the Latvian market
- Do not begin selling your product before you receive approval. Early sales can result in fines or market withdrawal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Food Supplement Notification in Latvia
No. Latvian is mandatory on the label for notification. You may include other languages, but the Latvian version must be present and accurate.
The PVD has 30 calendar days to review your submission. During this time, they may request changes or additional documents. Products can only be sold after approval is granted.
Yes. A state notification fee (usually ~€100–150) is required per product, and proof of payment must be submitted with the application.
If the only difference is package size for example 30/60/90 capsules , you can submit everything under one notification.
Yes. The product must list a responsible organization within Latvian territory, with a valid address and contact info. If you're based outside Latvia, you can appoint a local partner like BF‑Esse.
No. You cannot place the product on the Latvian market until it has been officially notified and confirmed by the PVD.
The PVD reviews your label text and mockup for legal compliance. If anything is incorrect or misleading, they will require corrections before acceptance.
Have more questions?
Contact BF‑Esse’s regulatory team for tailored support.
Contact BF‑Esse’s regulatory team for tailored support.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. While BF‑Esse makes every effort to ensure accuracy and compliance with current Latvian and EU regulations, businesses are responsible for conducting their own due diligence and consulting with the relevant authorities or legal advisors where necessary. The Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) is the official body overseeing food supplement notifications in Latvia.