The rise of E-Commerce in the export of foods and dietary supplements

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January 28, 2026
E-Commerce

In the last decade, e-commerce has transformed the way we buy and sell products. For food and dietary supplement manufacturers, this trend offers an unprecedented opportunity to reach international markets without relying on traditional distributors. However, it also brings new regulatory and logistical challenges. Understanding how to take advantage of this channel while avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between a successful operation and a costly failure.

Although many companies entering the world of e-commerce exports are based in Latin America, this is a global trend. At CORE, we’ve also worked with European companies—including those from Spain—who are leveraging these platforms to reach consumers worldwide. For this reason, this article takes a broader international perspective.

Why is e-commerce growing in food exports?

The rise of e-commerce as an export channel is the result of a mix of technological, economic, and social factors. Digital platforms have lowered entry barriers, allowing companies of all sizes to access consumers across borders.

Key contributing factors include:

  • Platforms like Amazon, Etsy, Walmart.com, and Mercado Libre International have democratized access to global markets.
  • The pandemic solidified online shopping as a preferred option, even for foods and supplements.
  • Access to competitive logistics providers specializing in cross-border trade has made shipping and returns easier.

Benefits of e-commerce for exporters

E-commerce offers exporters more than just an additional sales channel. It enables autonomy, direct consumer access, and greater control over brand messaging. These benefits can translate into higher profit margins, deeper consumer insight, and more effective communication.

Key benefits include:

  • Total control over product messaging and packaging.
  • Direct access to end customers with no middlemen.
  • Improved profit margins by avoiding traditional distribution channels.

Regulatory challenges to consider

Exporting food and supplements via e-commerce does not exempt a company from regulatory obligations. Products must comply with the sanitary, labeling, and documentation standards of the destination country.

While the United States is one of the most common markets, it's not the only one. Each country has its own authorities—EFSA in Europe (European Food Safety Authority), ANMAT in Argentina, or Cofepris in Mexico. In the U.S., the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) requirements include programs such as FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program).

A common mistake is assuming all countries require the same documentation or that a product compliant in the country of origin is ready for international sale.

General requirements for e-commerce export of food and supplements

Before listing any product on a global platform, make sure you comply with basic requirements such as:

  • Facility registration (depending on the destination country).
  • Labeling in the appropriate language and format according to local regulations.
  • Health or free sale certificates when required.
  • Voluntary certifications (organic, kosher, halal, etc.) that provide market advantage.
  • Technical documentation: ingredients, stability testing, microbiological reports, etc.
  • Confirmation that the product is not classified as a drug in the target country.
  • In some countries, a responsible importer or legal representative is required.

Keys to success in international e-commerce

To succeed in global e-commerce, you need more than just a product listing. CORE recommends:

  • Conduct a compliance audit before entering a new market.
  • Seek specialized legal or regulatory support in the target country.
  • Choose platforms that allow visibility and traceability of compliance.
  • Ensure proper translations and culturally appropriate labeling and marketing.

Conclusion

E-commerce represents a major opportunity for food and supplement companies looking to grow globally. However, leveraging this channel demands more than a well-designed product page. It requires in-depth regulatory knowledge, logistics preparation, and customized strategies per market. At CORE Consulting, we help you ensure compliance and reduce risks so your e-commerce expansion succeeds from day one.

The rise of E-Commerce in the export of foods and dietary supplements

.
January 28, 2026
E-Commerce

In the last decade, e-commerce has transformed the way we buy and sell products. For food and dietary supplement manufacturers, this trend offers an unprecedented opportunity to reach international markets without relying on traditional distributors. However, it also brings new regulatory and logistical challenges. Understanding how to take advantage of this channel while avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between a successful operation and a costly failure.

Although many companies entering the world of e-commerce exports are based in Latin America, this is a global trend. At CORE, we’ve also worked with European companies—including those from Spain—who are leveraging these platforms to reach consumers worldwide. For this reason, this article takes a broader international perspective.

Why is e-commerce growing in food exports?

The rise of e-commerce as an export channel is the result of a mix of technological, economic, and social factors. Digital platforms have lowered entry barriers, allowing companies of all sizes to access consumers across borders.

Key contributing factors include:

  • Platforms like Amazon, Etsy, Walmart.com, and Mercado Libre International have democratized access to global markets.
  • The pandemic solidified online shopping as a preferred option, even for foods and supplements.
  • Access to competitive logistics providers specializing in cross-border trade has made shipping and returns easier.

Benefits of e-commerce for exporters

E-commerce offers exporters more than just an additional sales channel. It enables autonomy, direct consumer access, and greater control over brand messaging. These benefits can translate into higher profit margins, deeper consumer insight, and more effective communication.

Key benefits include:

  • Total control over product messaging and packaging.
  • Direct access to end customers with no middlemen.
  • Improved profit margins by avoiding traditional distribution channels.

Regulatory challenges to consider

Exporting food and supplements via e-commerce does not exempt a company from regulatory obligations. Products must comply with the sanitary, labeling, and documentation standards of the destination country.

While the United States is one of the most common markets, it's not the only one. Each country has its own authorities—EFSA in Europe (European Food Safety Authority), ANMAT in Argentina, or Cofepris in Mexico. In the U.S., the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) requirements include programs such as FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program).

A common mistake is assuming all countries require the same documentation or that a product compliant in the country of origin is ready for international sale.

General requirements for e-commerce export of food and supplements

Before listing any product on a global platform, make sure you comply with basic requirements such as:

  • Facility registration (depending on the destination country).
  • Labeling in the appropriate language and format according to local regulations.
  • Health or free sale certificates when required.
  • Voluntary certifications (organic, kosher, halal, etc.) that provide market advantage.
  • Technical documentation: ingredients, stability testing, microbiological reports, etc.
  • Confirmation that the product is not classified as a drug in the target country.
  • In some countries, a responsible importer or legal representative is required.

Keys to success in international e-commerce

To succeed in global e-commerce, you need more than just a product listing. CORE recommends:

  • Conduct a compliance audit before entering a new market.
  • Seek specialized legal or regulatory support in the target country.
  • Choose platforms that allow visibility and traceability of compliance.
  • Ensure proper translations and culturally appropriate labeling and marketing.

Conclusion

E-commerce represents a major opportunity for food and supplement companies looking to grow globally. However, leveraging this channel demands more than a well-designed product page. It requires in-depth regulatory knowledge, logistics preparation, and customized strategies per market. At CORE Consulting, we help you ensure compliance and reduce risks so your e-commerce expansion succeeds from day one.

Do you still have questions after reading the article?

Contact our specialists today and ensure the success of your import or export process—avoiding costly mistakes, delays, and compliance issues.
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