Malaysia Enforces Strict Regulations on Trans Fats and Colistin from September 2025

On March 3, 2025, the Ministry of Health Malaysia announced the Food (Amendment) Regulations 2025, set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This new regulation imposes stringent controls on trans fatty acids and colistin, aiming to enhance food safety standards and protect consumer health in Malaysia.

The updated regulations introduce Article 38B regarding trans fatty acids, stating that, "except as otherwise provided in this regulation, no one shall import, produce, advertise, or sell any food intended for final consumers or retail that contains more than 2g/100g of fat in trans fatty acids, excluding those naturally found in animal fats." This move responds to growing health concerns among consumers, as trans fatty acids have been linked to various negative health effects. The trend towards "trans-fat-free" or "low trans-fat" products is becoming increasingly prominent in the food industry. The regulation aligns with WHO recommendations and takes inspiration from successful practices in the European Union and other regions that have implemented similar restrictions.

In addition to trans fats, the amendment also revises regulations concerning colistin, an antibiotic commonly used in livestock to prevent and treat diseases. The new regulation removes colistin from the "Maximum Residue Limits for Drugs in Foods" list and adds it to the "Prohibited Substances" list. Long-term use of colistin has raised concerns about increased bacterial resistance, posing potential health risks to consumers. Previously, the Malaysian Food Act 1985 allowed limited residue levels of colistin in milk, eggs, and various meats; however, the new regulations aim to reduce antibiotic misuse, making a significant step towards protecting public health.

These measures reflect Malaysia's commitment to improving food safety and ensuring that consumers are protected from harmful substances in their food supply.