Food Voucher and Meal Voucher These are essential benefits for millions of Brazilians, and the new guidelines, in effect since February 10, 2026, bring significant changes.

In this article, we will explore the implications of these new rules, which aim to benefit 22 million workers, in addition to generating annual savings of R$ 7,9 billion.

We will analyze the new model based on Decree 12.712, which establishes limits for fees, transfer deadlines, and card interoperability.

We will also discuss combating abusive practices and the role of the Ministry of Labor and Employment in oversight, reaffirming our commitment to worker health within the Worker's Food Program (PAT).

Overview of the New VA and VR Guidelines

The new guidelines for meal voucher (VA) and meal voucher (VR) came into effect in February 10, 2026, bringing significant changes that directly impact more than 22 millions of Brazilians.

With a ceiling of 3,6% for the rates Charged by restaurants and supermarkets, the new regulation aims to improve competitiveness in the food sector.

By imposing a maximum period of 15 days for the transfer of funds, it is expected to facilitate the cash flow of establishments, providing greater transparency and efficiency in the process.

Furthermore, the integration of meal vouchers and food vouchers, which can now be accepted at various establishments, promotes interoperability and expands workers' freedom of choice.

This initiative results in an estimated annual savings of $ 7,9 billion, benefiting both businesses and consumers.

Under the supervision of the Ministry of Labor and Employment, abusive practices were expressly prohibited to ensure that the focus of Worker Food Program Focus on the health and well-being of the worker.

With these guidelines, the government aims to strengthen both workers and the entire food sector in Brazil.

Decree 12.712: Tariff Ceiling and Transfer Deadline

Decree 12.712, in effect since February 2026, represents a significant change to the Worker's Food Program (PAT) by establishing guidelines for the use of food vouchers (VA) and meal vouchers (VR).

These measures aim to increase competitiveness between restaurants and supermarkets. by setting a maximum limit for tariffs and deadlines for transferring the amounts.

They aim to benefit both workers and the commercial establishments that accept these benefits.

1. Ceiling of 3,6% tariff. This limitation prevents excessive charges by merchants, making the market more accessible and balanced, which results in potential cost reductions for end consumers.
2. Payment will be processed within 15 days. This reduced timeframe for transferring credited funds promotes financial agility, which is essential for the economic health of businesses, allowing them to quickly reinvest in their daily operations.

The combination of these guidelines not only encourages healthier competition, but also ensures that the program's focus remains on the health and well-being of workers.

For more details, you can access the official website of the Ministry of Labor and Employment to understand how they influence the current market.

Interoperability of VA and VR Cards

A interoperability of VA and VR cards It transforms market dynamics, allowing these cards to be accepted in a variety of establishments, from supermarkets to small restaurants.

According to the new PAT rulesThe acceptance of cards on any POS terminal is no longer a barrier, encouraging more frequent use of these benefits.

For workers, this means more flexibility when choosing where to do your shopping or daily meals, promoting a simpler payment and direct.

For merchants, there is the obvious advantage of gaining new customers who are looking for convenience and diverse options for using their benefits.

Furthermore, the The new model improves competitiveness. in the market, creating opportunities for establishments of all sizes to benefit from this increased flow of consumers.

This change not only increases the wide acceptance The cards also strengthen the focus on employee well-being, a central point of Worker Food Program.

Interoperability, therefore, aligns not only with current market demands, but also with the needs of consumers seeking practicality and diversity.

Monitoring and Combating Abusive Practices

As abusive practices The use of food vouchers (VA) and meal vouchers (VR) is the subject of attention due to its detrimental impact on both workers and the market as a whole.

Practices such as price reductions, indirect benefits, and forced discounts stand out as major infractions, and are now... strictly prohibited.

Such practices distort the primary purpose of the vouchers, which should be used exclusively for food.

Furthermore, strict limits were set for the fees charged by restaurants and supermarkets, seeking to ensure a transparent and fair relationship between service providers and users.

According to CUTHowever, oversight is essential to prevent these practices from resurfacing.

O Ministry of Labor and EmploymentThe agency responsible for oversight adopts a systematic and proactive approach to ensure compliance with the rules stipulated in Decree 12.712. The institution implements regular and unannounced audits to verify the alignment of establishments with the new regulations, in addition to imposing significant fines on those who fail to comply with the guidelines.

In this way, the Ministry ensures that business practices respect workers' rights and promote a healthy environment for the use of benefits. writes SMABC.

The central focus of the Worker's Food Program (PAT) remains the promotion of worker health.

By strengthening oversight and eliminating practices that distort the purpose of the vouchers, the PAT (Food Assistance Program) reinforces its basic role. *Example of a quote*: 'Adequate food is a fundamental right and must be guaranteed without commercial distractions'.

In this way, the focus remains on the health and well-being of workers, ensuring that resources are used according to the initial intention: to nurture and support the Brazilian workforce.

In summaryThe new guidelines for food vouchers and meal vouchers represent a significant step forward for Brazilian workers, promoting savings and improving the quality of benefits.

The continued focus on worker health and rigorous oversight are essential steps to ensure that these programs fulfill their true purpose.