UPDATED: June 5, 2026
The Asia-Pacific region's dynamic and diverse food market is undergoing rapid regulatory transformation. From new labeling mandates and ingredient safety reviews to import/export controls and sustainability requirements, governments across the region are raising the bar on food safety and transparency. For manufacturers operating in or exporting to markets like China, Japan, South Korea, India, and ASEAN nations, keeping pace with these evolving standards is not just a matter of compliance, it’s a strategic imperative.
These sweeping regulatory changes from the FDA and USDA are reshaping how products are formulated, labeled, and marketed. Leveraging regulatory compliance software can help brands monitor and adapt to new food safety rules efficiently, avoiding costly recalls and protecting consumer trust.
This post highlights key regulatory updates across the Asia-Pacific region and their implications for food and beverage brands aiming to stay market-ready and risk-resilient.
Hong Kong Sweetener Regulation Updates Proposed - June 2, 2026
Indonesia Approves Nutri-Level Labeling Policy - April 6, 2026
Singapore Overhauls Food Safety Ratings With New SAFE Framework – January 7, 2026
India Restricts Use of “Tea” on Labels to Camellia Sinensis Products – December 24, 2025
Taiwan Updates Import Food Inspection Rules - August 21, 2025
India Updates Coffee-Chicory Labeling Rules - August 12, 2025
Philippines Reopens Market to Russian Poultry Exports - July 9, 2025
Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has proposed amendments to the Sweeteners in Food Regulations (Cap. 132U), introducing significant changes aimed at strengthening consumer protection and aligning local requirements with international food standards.
The proposed amendments would expand the scope of the current regulations and establish more detailed controls on sweetener use in food products.
Key proposals include:
Bringing polyhydric alcohols (sugar alcohols) under the regulatory scope of the Sweeteners in Food Regulations.
Expanding the list of permitted sweeteners that may be used in food products.
Establishing Maximum Permitted Levels (MPLs) for specific sweetener-food combinations.
Harmonizing Hong Kong’s regulatory framework with international standards and scientific developments.
Providing a transitional period and compliance guidance to support industry implementation.
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors using sweeteners in food products may need to review formulations and product specifications if the amendments are adopted. The introduction of MPLs and expanded regulatory oversight of polyhydric alcohols could require adjustments to ensure compliance with the updated requirements.
The CFS has indicated that guidance materials and a transition period will be provided to help businesses adapt to the new framework.
The proposed amendments represent a substantial modernization of Hong Kong’s sweetener regulations. By expanding permitted sweeteners, introducing maximum use levels, and regulating polyhydric alcohols, the Government aims to enhance public health protection while aligning with internationally recognized food safety standards.
Announcement Date: June 2, 2026
Link to Regulation: Hong Kong Centre for Food Safety – Proposed Amendments to Sweeteners in Food Regulations
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Sweeteners, including polyhydric alcohols
Indonesia is moving forward with a new front-of-pack nutrition labeling system aimed at improving consumer awareness and addressing public health concerns. On April 6, 2026, the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) confirmed approval of the “Nutri-Level” policy for processed foods and beverages.
The Nutri-Level system introduces a simplified, graded labeling format displayed prominently on packaging. It classifies products based on their content of sugar, salt, and fat—commonly referred to as GGL (gula, garam, lemak).
Front-of-pack labeling: Mandatory Nutri-Level labels will indicate GGL levels on processed food and beverage products.
Graded classification system: Products are assigned levels based on nutritional thresholds, helping consumers quickly assess health impact.
Public health focus: The policy supports national efforts to reduce excessive intake of sugar, salt, and fat.
Consumer clarity: Labels are designed to be easy to understand at a glance, improving informed purchasing decisions.
Stakeholder involvement: BPOM emphasized collaboration with industry, public health groups, and consumers to ensure effective implementation.
Food manufacturers and retailers operating in Indonesia should prepare for labeling updates and potential product reformulation. The Nutri-Level framework aligns with broader global trends toward transparent, simplified nutrition labeling and stricter scrutiny of high-risk nutrients.
Indonesia’s Nutri-Level policy signals a stronger regulatory push toward nutrition transparency and healthier consumption patterns. Companies should monitor implementation guidance closely and begin assessing compliance strategies.
Announcement Date: April 6, 2026
Link to Regulation: Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) press release
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Processed foods and beverages (sugar, salt, fat content)
Hong Kong is eliminating key food product certification charges for two years, giving exporters and manufacturers a temporary cost break while broadening access to faster customs clearance for more products. The Centre for Food Safety announced the measure on March 18 as part of the 2026-27 Budget.
Under the policy, the CFS will waive fees for Food Inspection Certificates, Health Certificates for Foods of Animal Origin, Recommendation on Food Manufacturer Registration, and Advance Release Permission. The fee waiver for Food Inspection Certificates and Health Certificates will run from April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2028. Waivers for Recommendation on Food Manufacturer Registration and Advance Release Permission are already in place and will continue through March 31, 2028.
The announcement matters for food businesses exporting from Hong Kong to mainland China because it lowers administrative costs tied to certification and streamlines market access. CFS also said the Advance Release Arrangement has been expanded beyond beverages, pastries and candies to cover tea leaves, ground seasonings, and noodles without meat ingredients.
Announcement Date: March 18, 2026
Link to Regulation: Hong Kong government press release from the Information Services Department on the CFS fee waiver announcement.
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All food categories.
Effective Date: April 1, 2026, for Food Inspection Certificates and Health Certificates; existing waivers for Recommendation on Food Manufacturer Registration and Advance Release Permission continue until March 31, 2028.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has officially announced a major shift in how food safety is evaluated across the nation. Starting January 19, 2026, the long-standing A-D food hygiene grading system will be replaced by the Safety Assurance for Food Establishments (SAFE) framework—an initiative aimed at modernizing food safety standards and reinforcing public trust in food handling practices.
The SAFE framework reflects SFA’s continued commitment to proactive food safety management, leveraging data-driven evaluations to improve outcomes and encourage continuous improvement across the industry.
Announcement Date: January 7, 2026
Effective Date: January 19, 2026
Link to Regulation: SFA: New SAFE Framework Announcement
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All SFA-licensed food establishments
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has clarified that only products derived from Camellia sinensis—such as black tea, green tea, instant tea, and Kangra tea—may legally be labeled as “Tea” on packaging and food labels.
This clarification, issued on December 24, 2025, reinforces the labeling standards under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It aims to prevent consumer confusion and curb misbranding in the marketplace.
This move aligns with FSSAI's broader mandate to uphold transparency and standardization in food labeling, ensuring consumers are accurately informed about product contents.
Announcement Date: December 24, 2025
Link to Regulation: FSSAI Clarification (PDF)
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Tea and Tea-Based Products
Effective Date: Immediate upon issuance
China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has proposed a regulatory amendment that would formally bring liquid infant formula under the same registration framework as powdered formula. The draft amendment, announced September 19, 2025, seeks to update the “Registration of Infant Formula Milk Powder Product Formulas” to reflect this inclusion.
These proposed revisions aim to harmonize the safety and quality assurance requirements for all forms of infant formula in China, reflecting growing market trends and evolving consumer needs. Stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the draft regulation during the public consultation period.
Announcement Date: September 5, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Infant formula
Effective Date: The proposed amendment is set to take effect on December 1, 2025
Deadline for Public Comments: October 19, 2025
The Hong Kong Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has enacted the Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) (Amendment) Regulation 2025, expanding its controls on heavy metal contamination in food to align with international food safety standards.
This regulatory update underscores Hong Kong's ongoing commitment to food safety and public health by tightening oversight of heavy metal levels in the food supply.
Announcement Date: September 5, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Multiple Food Categories
Effective Date: September 5, 2025
The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has revised its Regulations for Inspection of Imported Food and Related Products, introducing significant updates aimed at tightening oversight and clarifying responsibilities for importers. The amendments were announced on August 21, 2025, with phased implementation beginning this September.
Importers and manufacturers should review their internal processes to ensure alignment with the revised regulations ahead of the staggered effective dates. These changes underscore Taiwan’s efforts to enhance food safety oversight and place more accountability on importers.
Announcement Date: August 21, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All imported food products
Effective Date: January 1, 2026 (with select provisions effective September 1, 2025)
India's Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) has issued new front-of-pack labeling requirements for coffee-chicory mixtures, aiming to enhance product transparency for consumers. The changes are part of the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) First Amendment Regulations, 2025, announced on August 12.
Revised Labelling Rule: Sub-paragraph 2.2 of Schedule-II in the 2020 Labelling and Display Regulations has been replaced.
Mandatory Label Text for Coffee-Chicory Blends:
For roasted and ground blends: Front label must read: “COFFEE BLENDED WITH CHICORY - THIS MIXTURE CONTAINS COFFEE ...%, CHICORY ...%”
For instant coffee blends: Front label must read: “INSTANT COFFEE-CHICORY MIXTURE MADE FROM BLENDS OF COFFEE AND CHICORY - COFFEE ...%, CHICORY ...%”
These requirements are designed to standardize labeling and ensure clear disclosure of coffee-to-chicory ratios, helping consumers make informed purchase decisions.
The amended regulation will come into effect on July 1, 2026, giving manufacturers ample time to update product packaging.
Announcement Date: August 12, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Coffee & Coffee Products
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
The Philippines has officially lifted its 2021 ban on the import of Russian poultry, marking a key development in agricultural trade between the two countries. On July 9, 2025, Russia's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) confirmed that poultry meat and poultry by-products from Russia are once again eligible for export to the Philippine market.
These regulatory developments aim to streamline and safeguard the import of animal products, ensuring food safety and trade transparency.
Announcement Date: July 9, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Meat and meat products
The Philippines Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially adopted the Codex Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) (CXG 95-2022 Rev. 2023) as a technical regulation. This move, announced via FDA Circular No. 2025-003 on July 3, 2025, aims to align national standards with international benchmarks for the treatment of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in children.
This alignment with Codex standards reinforces the country's commitment to evidence-based nutrition interventions and international regulatory harmonization.
Announcement Date: July 3, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)
Effective Date: The circular takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation and filing with the University of the Philippines Law Center
India’s food safety regulator has formally prohibited the use of the term “100%” in food labeling and advertising. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued this advisory on May 28, 2025, clarifying that such claims are potentially misleading and non-compliant with current regulations.
Under the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, all claims must be truthful, unambiguous, and not misleading. The FSSAI now confirms:
This advisory was issued with the approval of the Competent Authority and applies across all food categories.
FBOs should review all marketing, branding, and labeling materials to ensure full compliance. Misleading claims can result in regulatory enforcement under the FSS Act, 2006.
Announcement Date: May 28, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All Food Categories
Effective Date: Immediate
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a new directive to intensify enforcement against the illegal use of chemical ripening agents on fruits. This notice, released May 20, 2025, reiterates existing bans under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.
FSSAI’s directive emphasizes the following:
The directive aims to curb the use of harmful chemicals in fruit ripening processes, ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance across India's fruit supply chain.
Announcement Date: May 20, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Fruit
Effective Date: Immediate (re-inforcement of existing 2011 regulation)
On April 24, 2025, Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) announced proposed amendments to the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations, Cap. 132W, introducing new safety controls for konjac-containing jelly confectionery. These updates aim to prevent choking incidents, particularly among children, by regulating product formats and requiring clearer warnings.
Stakeholders and members of the public are encouraged to submit feedback on the proposed regulation via the CFS website or official consultation channels before the deadline on June 8, 2025.
Announcement Date: April 24, 2025
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Konjac-containing jelly confectionery (particularly mini-cup formats)
Deadline for Public Comments: June 8, 2025
The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued new guidelines to align the classification and regulation of vitamins and minerals under processed food products with both national and international standards. Released on January 6, 2025, the update marks a significant policy shift for the dietary supplement industry in the Philippines.
This update introduces a clearer, more consistent framework for classifying dietary supplements in the Philippine market. By anchoring dosage limits to PDRI and international references, the regulation is expected to enhance consumer safety and product transparency.
Manufacturers and distributors are advised to review their product formulations and labeling practices promptly to ensure full compliance before the regulation takes effect.
Announcement Date: January 6, 2025
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Vitamins and minerals in adult dietary supplements
Effective Date: January 22, 2025
On September 6, 2024, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) released comprehensive hygiene guidelines targeting the production and distribution of peanuts and peanut-based products. These new standards aim to reinforce Good Food Hygiene Practices (GFHP) throughout Taiwan’s peanut supply chain, enhancing food safety and consumer confidence.
The TFDA’s guidelines are part of a broader national effort to elevate food hygiene standards and protect public health. Peanut product manufacturers in Taiwan should promptly assess their supply chain practices, from sourcing to shipping, to ensure full alignment with these updated expectations.
Announcement Date: September 6, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Peanuts and peanut-containing food products
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has issued stringent new guidelines to monitor and regulate red yeast rice products, following severe health incidents linked to fungal contamination. Announced on August 9, 2024, the Guidelines for Monitoring Foods Containing Red Yeast Rice are a direct response to cases of kidney failure and fatalities traced to Puberulic acid, a mycotoxin produced by Penicillium adametzioides.
These regulations signal a zero-tolerance approach to mycotoxin contamination in dietary ingredients. Thai importers, producers, and distributors of red yeast rice must immediately audit and upgrade their safety protocols to meet these heightened standards.
Announcement Date: August 9, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Red yeast rice
On July 31, 2024, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH), through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), launched a public consultation on a proposed regulation to adopt the Codex Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) (CXG 95-2022). This proposal aims to elevate the country's food safety standards for RUTF under the Food Safety Act of 2013.
This proposal represents a critical step toward harmonizing the Philippines’ nutritional therapy standards with global best practices. Food manufacturers, importers, and healthcare organizations involved in the treatment of SAM must review the Codex CXG 95-2022 provisions and prepare to adjust formulations, documentation, and operational compliance accordingly.
The open consultation offers a pivotal chance for stakeholders to provide input and shape the final regulation.
Announcement Date: July 31, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Ready-to-use therapeutic foods
Deadline for Public Comments: August 16, 2024
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in South Korea has released updated technical criteria for the use of Aloe vera gel as a raw material in health-functional foods. Published on June 25, 2024, this document aligns domestic standards with international benchmarks to ensure consumer safety and product efficacy.
Aloe vera gel is recognized for its skin hydration, digestive support, and immune-enhancing properties. However, the MFDS emphasizes that individuals should consult healthcare providers before use, particularly if prone to allergic reactions or gastrointestinal sensitivities.
The standardized aloin limit will be enforced starting January 1, 2025, allowing manufacturers time to test formulations and ensure full compliance with the new safety and quality benchmarks.
Announcement Date: June 25, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Aloe vera gel
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has initiated a public consultation to explore regulatory measures for alternative protein foods, with a primary focus on the plant protein segment. Launched on May 23, 2024, the proposal reflects the country’s growing interest in modernizing food safety oversight for emerging protein sources.
This consultation presents a critical opportunity for stakeholders, ranging from plant-based food manufacturers to scientific researchers and public health organizations, to contribute insights and recommendations. Input will help shape a robust, evidence-based framework to ensure the safety and traceability of future protein innovations.
Announcement Date: May 23, 2024
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Alternative protein products, primarily plant-based proteins
Deadline for Public Comments: June 7, 2024
In anticipation of peak mango season, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a renewed alert urging fruit traders and handlers to comply with the ban on calcium carbide for artificial fruit ripening. This directive, announced on May 18, 2024, is part of India's broader campaign to uphold food safety standards and protect public health.
The advisory serves as a clear reminder for fruit traders, wholesalers, and suppliers to maintain rigorous compliance during mango season. Authorities are expected to intensify inspections and enforce penalties to deter illegal ripening practices.
Using approved ripening agents not only enhances consumer trust but also aligns businesses with India's national food safety priorities.
Announcement Date: May 18, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Mangoes and other ripened fruits
Effective Date: Currently in force under 2011 regulations
On May 7, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines released detailed guidelines for Food Business Operators (FBOs) seeking to import prepackaged processed food products labeled as “samples only” for Research and Development (R&D). This policy aims to foster innovation in food development while upholding strict regulatory boundaries for unregistered food products.
These rules are designed to support safe and compliant innovation in food product development, while maintaining clear restrictions on unregistered product use in the commercial market.
These clear and enforceable parameters offer FBOs a streamlined pathway to test new products while ensuring that unregistered items remain outside the commercial food chain.
Announcement Date: May 7, 2024
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Products used in research and development
On January 4, 2024, Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) issued a draft amendment to the Food Traceability Management Standards in alignment with Article 46 of the Administrative Procedure Act. The proposed changes seek to strengthen the precision and efficiency of data reporting within Korea's food and livestock traceability systems.
The MFDS aims to strike a balance between compliance efficiency and operational flexibility. By clarifying timing obligations and exempting exports, the amendment will:
Announcement Date: January 4, 2024
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All food and livestock products subject to traceability reporting
On August 24, 2023, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) introduced a formal Guide on Food Labelling and Advertisements, designed to help Food Business Operators (FBOs) comply with the Sale of Food Act and its associated regulatory framework. This guidance document offers a structured approach to ensure that food labels and promotional content align with public health standards and legal requirements.
This official guide is a vital tool for any FBO marketing products in Singapore. Ensuring truthful and compliant labeling not only avoids legal penalties but also builds trust with consumers and regulators alike.
Operators should integrate the guide into their product development, packaging, and marketing review processes to maintain compliance and prevent costly infractions.
Announcement Date: August 24, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All prepacked food products marketed in Singapore
On August 22, 2023, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) released a Gazette notification introducing the First Amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2023. Issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the amendment refines key definitions and labeling provisions for alcoholic beverage products in India.
The amendment is designed to enhance labeling clarity and regulatory consistency in India’s alcoholic beverage sector. Stakeholders, including distilleries, importers, and retailers, should review the updated definitions and ensure their product labels and specifications conform to the new standards.
The revised regulations will take effect on March 1, 2024, giving businesses sufficient time to implement necessary changes.
Announcement Date: August 22, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Alcoholic beverages, particularly whisky
Effective Date: March 1, 2024
On August 15, 2023, Sri Lanka’s Department of Government Printing officially published the Food (Iodization of Salt) Regulations 2023 under Section 32 of the Food Act, No. 26 of 1980. This landmark regulation sets comprehensive national standards governing the production, packaging, and distribution of iodized and non-iodized food-grade salts.
This regulation reflects Sri Lanka’s commitment to improving micronutrient fortification and enhancing food safety standards. Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in salt manufacturing, packaging, or distribution must review and align their operations with the new legal benchmarks.
The regulation will take effect on January 1, 2024, requiring FBOs to complete registration and compliance procedures before the deadline.
Announcement Date: August 15, 2023
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Iodized and non-iodized food-grade salts
Effective Date: January 1, 2024
On August 4, 2023, the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment (CFSA) released a draft revision to the National Food Safety Standard on the Use of Nutritional Fortification Substances in Foods, signaling a comprehensive regulatory overhaul that would replace the current GB 14880-2012 standard. This proposed update aims to modernize fortification practices in line with current health and food safety objectives.
If adopted, this update will redefine the regulatory landscape for fortified food products in China, impacting manufacturers, importers, and health food brands. The changes reflect China’s growing emphasis on regulatory alignment, public health priorities, and precision in food labeling and formulation.
The public consultation period closed on August 10, 2023, and stakeholders await the final version, which will officially replace GB 14880-2012 once enacted.
Announcement Date: August 4, 2023
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Nutritional fortifiers; iodine in edible salt; fortified and health-based foods
Deadline for Public Comments: August 10, 2023
On July 6, 2023, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) announced a critical compliance update via a directive under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The notice introduces the Second Amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2022, offering temporary relief for businesses navigating new front-of-pack disclaimer requirements.
This directive seeks to curb misleading food marketing by ensuring brand names don’t imply unsubstantiated product claims. Food Business Operators (FBOs) should immediately review their packaging for non-compliant terminology and prepare for relabeling to avoid enforcement action post-deadline.
Announcement Date: July 6, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All branded or packaged foods using terms like “Natural,” “Fresh,” or “Pure” in names
Effective Date: December 13, 2023
On June 29, 2023, the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan issued a partial amendment to the Food Labeling Standards, enacted under Section 13 of the Food Sanitation Law. This amendment specifically tightens the regulatory framework for infant foods and foods for special medical purposes, reinforcing safety and transparency in a sensitive category.
The regulation applies to both domestically produced and imported products, ensuring that infant and special medical foods in Japan are accurately labeled and rigorously monitored for safety.
With the amendment effective immediately as of June 29, 2023, all food business operators involved in the manufacture or import of such products must review and revise their packaging and claims without delay.
Announcement Date: June 29, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Infant formula, infant foods for special medical purposes
On June 16, 2023, South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) released a draft amendment to the Nutrition Standards for High-Calorie Foods with Low Nutritional Value, under Article 46 of the Administrative Procedure Act. The proposed update aims to refine terminology and tighten nutrient thresholds for foods targeted at children, including popular meal replacements.
The MFDS has invited public comments through July 6, 2023, offering manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and consumer groups an opportunity to weigh in on the proposed updates. Following the consultation period, final regulations will be confirmed and published.
Manufacturers of children’s foods, particularly container noodle and meal replacement brands, should proactively review their products to ensure future compliance.
Announcement Date: June 16, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Meal replacements and container noodles marketed to children
Deadline for Public Comments: July 6, 2023
On June 15, 2023, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) issued a regulatory amendment to bolster food safety standards for imported beef and beef products from the United States and Canada. This update aims to enhance oversight of international meat supply chains while ensuring alignment with Taiwan’s Food Safety and Sanitation Management Law.
This amendment reinforces Taiwan’s stringent approach to imported meat safety, particularly amid increasing global concerns over diseases and cross-border food security. Meat processors and exporters in the U.S. and Canada should ensure all operational practices are compliant to avoid trade disruptions.
Announcement Date: June 15, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Beef and beef products from the U.S. and Canada
Effective Date: June 15, 2023
On June 8, 2023, Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) officially released regulations governing the use of broccoli seed extract in food products. This move introduces precise technical and labeling standards to ensure safe consumption and informed consumer choice.
The regulation applies to both domestic and imported food products, compelling food manufacturers and importers to revise their product formulations and labels as necessary.
Announcement Date: June 8, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Broccoli seed extract in food products
Effective Date: June 8, 2023
On May 4, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines, in coordination with the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), released a draft notification for the Philippine National Standard and Recommended Code of Practice for Peanut Butter. This proposed regulation sets a clear framework to standardize peanut butter production, storage, and quality across the country.
Stakeholders, including manufacturers, retailers, and food safety advocates, are invited to submit feedback by May 19, 2023, helping to shape a more robust regulatory environment for a staple Filipino food product.
Announcement Date: May 4, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Peanut butter for commercial distribution
Deadline for Public Comments: May 19, 2023
On April 27, 2023, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) announced the operationalization of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides used in tea cultivation, under Section 92 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This long-anticipated move provides regulatory certainty and consumer safety assurance for one of India’s most vital agricultural exports.
Tea producers, processors, and exporters must now ensure strict adherence to these residue limits to remain compliant with domestic food safety laws and international trade requirements. Regular residue testing, improved pesticide application practices, and supply chain documentation will be critical for meeting these enforceable standards.
The regulation is effective retroactively from April 27, 2022, offering legal enforceability and regulatory alignment for one of India’s most monitored agri-commodities.
Announcement Date: April 27, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Tea (Camellia sinensis) and associated pesticide residues
Effective Date: April 27, 2022
On April 18, 2023, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) issued the Food (Amendment) Regulations 2023 under Section 56(1) of the Sale of Food Act 1973, introducing a comprehensive revision of its approach to veterinary drug residues and chemical preservatives in food. The changes aim to strengthen regulatory clarity and align with international food safety benchmarks.
The regulation will be effective starting April 28, 2023, and will impact meat processors, importers, and food manufacturers working with animal-derived ingredients. Companies must immediately assess their supply chains, update safety protocols, and review additive usage to remain compliant.
Announcement Date: April 18, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Veterinary drug residues in animal products; chemical preservatives like Nisin
Effective Date: April 28, 2023
On April 11, 2023, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of Korea issued Notification No. 2023-28, proposing a partial amendment to the Health Functional Food Code. The updated regulation, effective July 1, 2023, strengthens residue monitoring standards and reinforces quality control across Korea’s dietary supplement sector.
Supplement manufacturers and ingredient importers must immediately review their supply chains, update safety documentation, and ensure testing capabilities meet the new compliance standards.
Announcement Date: April 11, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Agricultural and animal-derived ingredients used in health-functional foods
Effective Date: July 1, 2023
On February 10, 2023, Singapore’s Health Promotion Board (HPB) released an official industry guide detailing labeling and advertising requirements for Nutri-Grade beverages, pursuant to the Food Regulations (Amendment No. 2) 2021. This initiative is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to combat sugar-related health risks and promote informed consumer choices.
Manufacturers, importers, and retailers must review beverage formulations, redesign packaging, and update advertising campaigns to comply with these rules. Non-compliance may result in regulatory penalties and restricted market access for non-conforming products.
Announcement Date: February 10, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: All Nutri-Grade beverages sold in Singapore
On January 19, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines released the Revised Guidelines on Food Additives and Processing Aids under Section 15 of Republic Act No. 9711, marking a major overhaul of the nation’s food additive regulatory framework. These updates are designed to align local standards with international food safety norms and support industry-wide compliance.
The revised guidelines will take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette, offering a clear window for regulatory transition. All stakeholders in the Philippine food industry, whether local producers or international suppliers, must update their product formulations, ingredient approvals, and documentation to align with the new framework.
On January 30, 2023, Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) released a draft regulation titled Partial Amendment of the Food Standards and Specifications (No. 2023-38) under Notice No. 2022-77 and in accordance with Article 46 of the Administrative Procedure Act. The proposed changes aim to modernize food ingredient regulations and enhance harmonization with global safety standards.
The draft is open for public consultation until March 30, 2023, allowing food manufacturers, importers, and industry stakeholders to provide input. Final revisions will follow based on stakeholder feedback and scientific review.
Announcement Date: January 30, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: 5'-nucleotide derivatives, colorants, preservatives, and specific food additives in functional products
Deadline for Public Comments: March 30, 2023
India's Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) has released a proposed amendment to its core food standards regulation, introducing key changes impacting dairy products, rice, chocolate labeling, and food additive permissions.
Published on January 11, 2023, under Section 92 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, the draft Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) First Amendment Regulations targets improvements in labeling transparency and food safety compliance across multiple product categories.
Announcement Date: January 11, 2023
Link to Regulation
Food & Ingredients Impacted: Dahi, skimmed milk dahi, milk, fermented dairy, basmati rice, blended rice, chocolate, food additives, processing aids
Effective Date: August 1, 2023 (except Regulation 2.6, which is effective upon Gazette publication)
Navigating shifting regulations doesn’t have to slow you down. With Trace One Regulatory Compliance, food brands gain the clarity and control they need to keep pace with evolving requirements.
Our platform helps you expedite regulatory compliance checks, monitor changing food laws, and get products to new markets faster – empowering your team to move with confidence, reduce risk, and stay one step ahead in a fast-moving regulatory landscape.