Japan: COOL for Main Ingredient Requirements Now in Force

  |   Attaché Report (GAIN)   |   JA2022-0026

On April 1, 2022, processed food manufactures in Japan must be in compliance with new country of origin labeling (COOL) requirements. The new rule requires Japanese food manufacturers to identify on the label of the product the country(ies) where the main ingredient, by weight, was harvested or produced. This requirement applies only to Japanese food processors and manufactures. Imported processed foods are exempt (only the country of manufacture of the finished product will continue to be required). Japanese importers bear sole responsibility for the development of labels compliant with Japanese food labeling regulations.

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