Revenue have produced new guidance setting out the VAT treatment of food supplements and certain other substances for human consumption. The standard rate of VAT applies to food supplements. However, a Revenue concession allowed the zero rate to be applied to certain types of vitamins, minerals and fish oils. This concession will no longer apply from 1 November 2019. The guidance also sets out the VAT treatment of sports nutrition supplements; slimming aids; liniments, ointments and rubs made from food; folic acid and other vitamins and minerals classified as medicines; and foods for specific groups.
From 1 January 2019, new rules and definitions apply to certain types of vouchers issued from that date arising from Council Directive (EU) 2016/1065 of 27th
June 2016. These rules affect the taxing point and affect how VAT can be deducted by certain types of traders. Revenue have issued guidance setting out the VAT treatment of single-purpose and multi-purpose vouchers. Suppliers of vouchers must be able to identify vouchers that are covered by the new definitions (i.e. vouchers that are issued on or after 1 January 2019).