In shortThe Food Sanitation Act is Japan’s basic law aimed at ensuring food safety. It defines additive designation, standards, import notification, and business licenses, forming the foundation for handling and sourcing ingredients.
Overview
The Act prevents sanitary hazards arising from food and drink. It comprehensively regulates additive, utensil, and packaging standards as well as rules for manufacturing, importing, and selling.
Points related to ingredients
- Designated additive system (which additives may be used)
- Composition specs, use standards, storage standards
- Food import notification
- Positive List system for residual pesticides
Practical points
Confirm whether an ingredient is a designated additive and meets the use standards/specs. Imported ingredients require notification and conformance checks. FONTIA supports quality & compliance.
FAQ
Difference between the Food Sanitation Act and the Food Labeling Act?
The Food Sanitation Act covers safety (standards, etc.); the Food Labeling Act covers labeling rules. Both must be checked.
What is a designated additive?
An additive approved for use under the Food Sanitation Act. Non-designated additives cannot be used.
What to check when importing?
Legality, conformance to standards, and whether an import notification is required.