Japan Strengthens Food Safety Measures: Revised Standards for Food Contact Materials in Packaging

Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare issued Notification No. 324, announcing crucial amendments to food safety standards. Effective from June 1, 2025, the revised standards under the Food Sanitation Act impact the production, sale, import, and commercial use of instruments and container packaging. The amendments focus on prohibiting items similar to those existing before the effective date, containing materials regulated by the Food Sanitation Act Enforcement Order (Government Ordinance No. 229 of 1953).

Key highlights of the amendments include specifying allowable substance amounts and permissible leaching or migration levels in instruments or container packaging made from materials subject to regulation. The revised standards particularly emphasize compliance with the Food Sanitation Act Enforcement Order for synthetic resin materials.

This regulatory move aims to bolster food safety by setting stringent restrictions on materials used in packaging, aligning with Japan's commitment to ensuring the well-being of its consumers. Interested parties can access related documents for further details through the Ministry's Health and Welfare Bureau for Health and Life, Food Standards Evaluation Division.