Japan is set to implement significant changes to its Food Labelling Standards, revising nutrient labelling values and tightening requirements for on-label claims. These amendments, driven by the latest Japanese Dietary Intake Standards 2025, align with global best practices and aim to enhance transparency for consumers. The revisions impact protein, calcium, dietary fibre, zinc, sodium, and vitamin B1 levels, with stricter conditions for fortified food claims. A phased implementation begins on April 1, 2025, with transition periods extending up to five years.
Insights & Strategic Moves
Revised Nutrient Standards for On-Label Claims:Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) has adjusted recommended nutrient values based on updated dietary data. Notable changes include an increase in calcium (680mg → 700mg) and dietary fibre (19g → 20g) while zinc (8.8mg → 8.5mg) and sodium (2.9g → 2.7g) have been slightly reduced.
Stronger Compliance for Nutrient Claims:Companies must now meet higher thresholds to use nutrient-related claims. For instance, protein-rich products must contain at least 85g per kg to qualify for a "high protein" label, up from 81g previously. Similarly, "fortified" claims for protein and dietary fibre require content 25% above the standard.
Mandatory Ingredient Labelling for Fortification:Japan will remove exemptions that previously allowed certain fortified foods to omit fortification ingredient details from labels. This aligns with EU, Australian, and Codex global standards, ensuring greater consumer awareness of added nutrients and food additives.
Implementation Timeline & Industry Adaptation:The new rules take effect April 1, 2025, with a three-year transition for nutrient labelling values and a five-year transition for fortification-related labelling. Businesses must align reformulation and labelling strategies within this period to maintain compliance.
Future Outlook
Japan’s food industry faces a critical transition period as regulatory tightening demands greater transparency and accuracy in health claims. Brands focusing on functional and fortified foods must recalibrate formulations and marketing to comply with stricter labelling laws.
With consumer trust and regulatory compliance at stake, Japan’s new food labelling framework is a strategic shift toward greater transparency, scientific accuracy, and global alignment—an essential evolution in a rapidly advancing nutrition market.
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