Consumer Health – USA/Europe/Asia/ROW Regulatory News – Jan 2025

USA

FDA Proposes Requiring Front-of-Package Nutrition Information on Packaged Foods

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant proposal to mandate front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labels for most packaged foods. This initiative is part of the FDA’s broader nutrition priorities aimed at addressing the nation’s chronic disease crisis. If finalized, this proposal would make it easier for consumers to quickly access key nutritional information, such as the levels of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars—nutrients linked to chronic diseases when consumed in excess.

FDA Moves Toward Reducing Nicotine to Nonaddictive Levels in Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products

The FDA has issued a proposed rule that could reduce the nicotine content in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products to minimally or nonaddictive levels. This proposed rule would make the United States the first country to implement such a life-saving measure aimed at reducing smoking-related illnesses and deaths. The FDA has been working toward this goal since 2018 and is now seeking public input through comments and input from the Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee.

FDA Seeks Information on Poppy Seeds

The FDA has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather data on industry practices related to poppy seeds. The agency seeks to understand agricultural, manufacturing, and supply chain practices that may impact the presence of opiate alkaloids on poppy seeds. This information will help the FDA assess potential risks associated with poppy seeds in food products.

EUROPE

One Health Approach to Combat Azole Fungicide Resistance in Aspergillus Fungi

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) and five EU health and environment agencies have joined forces to address the growing threat of azole fungicide resistance in Aspergillus fungi. The widespread use of azoles in agriculture and horticulture has led to an increased risk of Aspergillus developing resistance to critical antifungal treatments. This collaboration highlights the importance of a One Health approach to tackling this issue, which impacts both human and animal health.

New Guidance on Managing Process Water for Fresh Produce

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has developed new guidelines and an online tool to help industries manage the quality of process water used in the production of fruit, vegetables, and herbs. This comes after several outbreaks in the EU related to pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and STEC. The guidelines also take into account the challenges posed by climate change and the reduction of available water, which may affect food safety.

ASIA

SINGAPORE

HSA Seizes E-vaporisers and Illicit Products in Major Bust

In a two-day operation in early January 2025, Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) uncovered a distribution network for e-vaporisers, seizing over 8,700 units and related components. The operation also led to the confiscation of illicit goods, including duty-unpaid cigarettes and suspected controlled substances.

INDONESIA

National Nutrition Agency and BPOM Collaborate on Food Safety

In a joint effort, the National Nutrition Agency and the Indonesian Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) have pledged to support the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in Indonesia. This collaboration aims to ensure food safety and nutrition standards are met for the benefit of the public. The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on January 2025.

ROW

BRAZIL

Public Consultation on Restricted and Prohibited Substances in Hygiene and Cosmetic Products

Anvisa has opened two public consultations on the list of restricted and prohibited substances in hygiene products, perfumes, and cosmetics. The consultations, open for feedback until March 7, 2025, focus on updating the list of substances that either do not meet safety standards or require specific technical-regulatory restrictions to be safely used in consumer products.