The product “Mano de Buey” is the first to receive marketing approval for ethnic artisanal products from INVIMA, marking a turning point that allows for the formalization of Viche without relinquishing its ancestral identity. This achievement comes after many years of struggle by the communities to be recognized and to move beyond exclusion, neglect, and the misuse of their culture. Their efforts were finally reflected in supporting legislation, such as Law 2158 of 2021 and Decree 1456 of 2024.
The regulation not only enables the commercialization of Viche under differentiated sanitary conditions, but also establishes a community-based accreditation system, protects collective intellectual property, and creates an Interinstitutional Committee with participation from producers in the Pacific region. In addition, it includes measures to safeguard Viche-derived products and promote their dissemination through fairs and festivals.
Beyond regulatory aspects, this case stands as a model example of how the State can harmonize public health regulation with the protection of cultural heritage regarding food and alcoholic beverages. Recognizing Viche as an integral part of the social and symbolic fabric of Colombia’s Pacific dignifies traditional knowledge, boosts local economies, and ensures fair and differentiated treatment for historically excluded communities.
