Japanese Food Standards Revised Amidst Crisis: 2 Key Products May Cause Consumer Panic Starting August 15, 2024!

On August 15, 2024, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries issued two important food standard revision announcements. These two amendments mainly concern the two major product categories of bread crumbs and processed tomato products.

First of all, in the revision of the bread bran standard, the focus of the new mandatory product labeling requirements. According to the new regulations, key information such as product name, storage method, shelf life, raw materials list, food additive information and country of origin must be clearly marked on the label of bread bran products in the future. Such a change would help consumers gain a more complete understanding of a product's ingredients and properties, allowing them to make more informed purchasing decisions.

Secondly, for processed tomato products, Japan has mainly adjusted the quality and sensory standards of ketchup and tomato puree products. At the same time, a new regulation has been added that the total amount of other plant-derived ingredients in solid tomato products does not exceed 10% to ensure the main ingredient characteristics of tomato products. This initiative aims to further improve the quality and taste of tomato products and meet consumers' demand for high-quality food.

Japan's revised food standards reflect the country's continuous pursuit of food quality and safety. On the one hand, by further improving product label management, consumers are provided with more comprehensive and transparent product information, and consumers' right to know and choice is enhanced. On the other hand, by optimizing the technical indicators of specific food categories, the continuous improvement of product quality has been promoted, thus improving the confidence of foreign consumers in the level of Japanese food safety.

As an important exporter of agricultural products to Japan, China should pay close attention to the latest developments in Japanese food regulations, do a good job of product standards docking and production process adjustment in a timely manner, ensure that export products meet the requirements of the Japanese market, and create a good export environment for enterprises. At the same time, China can also learn from Japan's experience and practices in food standards management to further improve the construction of China's food standards system, improve the overall level of China's food industry, and ensure food safety for consumers.