South Korea to Enforce Stricter Food Labeling Regulations by 2028 Affecting Caffeine and Sweeteners

The South Korean government is set to implement new, stricter labeling regulations for processed foods, with compliance required by 2028. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), introduces a series of rigorous guidelines that food companies must follow, particularly concerning caffeine content and sweeteners.

A key aspect of the new regulations is the mandatory high-caffeine label for all solid foods containing guarana, a popular ingredient among younger consumers. Previously, such labeling was only required for liquid products. The MFDS clarified that any product containing more than 0.15mg of guarana must display a high-caffeine warning, regardless of its form.

According to the MFDS, “The label must be prominently placed on the main display surface of the product, alongside the trademark or logo, ensuring it is easily visible to consumers.” The label must include the phrase 'Contains high caffeine' as well as specify the total caffeine content, such as '000mg caffeine content per serving.'

Additionally, there will be a mandatory caution statement indicating that the product is “Not recommended for children, pregnant women, or people sensitive to caffeine.” This move aims to enhance consumer awareness and promote safety regarding caffeine consumption.

As the deadline approaches, companies in the food industry will need to prepare for these significant changes to ensure compliance and protect consumer health. The revised regulations reflect a growing trend towards transparency and safety in food labeling, aligning with global standards.