Consumer Health – USA/Europe/Asia/ROW Regulatory News – March 2024

USA

FSIS Issues Updated Guidance on Label Approval

The FSIS has released updated guidance to help establishments determine whether product labels require review by the Labeling and Program Delivery Staff (LPDS). The update includes information on voluntary “Product of USA,” “Made in the USA,” and similar origin claims, aligning with the final rule on voluntary U.S.-origin labeling for FSIS‑regulated products.

EUROPE

Regulation 2024/858 Amends Cosmetic Nanomaterial Requirements

The European Commission has published Regulation 2024/858, updating Annexes II and III of Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. The amendment bans 12 nanomaterials and restricts the use of hydroxyapatite (nano). The new rules will apply beginning February 2025.

AUSTRALIA

Updates to the Food Standards Code

FSANZ has approved multiple variations to the Food Standards Code, including:

• A1254 – Rosemary extract as a food additive (extended use) 
• A1273 – Steviol glycosides in foods for special medical purposes 
• A1275 – Transglutaminase from GM Bacillus licheniformis as a processing aid 
• A1276 – Herbicide‑tolerant soybean line MON94313 
• A1277 – 2′‑FL from GM Escherichia coli K‑12 (gene donor: Helicobacter enhydrae) for infant formula 

Amendments to AICIS Categorization and Reporting Rules

AICIS has updated its categorization, reporting, and record‑keeping requirements for introducers of industrial chemicals. All chemical introductions must be categorized before manufacture or import into Australia.

CHINA

Issuance of New National Food Safety Standards

China has issued 47 new national food safety standards— including GB 2760-2024 on the use of food additives—along with six amendments. These updates were approved by the National Food Safety Standards Review Committee.

New Guidelines for Prepackaged Food Labeling

SAMR has released detailed guidelines encouraging improved labeling of production dates, shelf life, and related information on prepackaged foods and food additives to enhance consumer transparency.

Toothpaste Testing Methods Added to Cosmetics Standards

NMPA has approved 15 toothpaste testing methods for incorporation into China’s Cosmetics Safety and Technical Standards (CSTS). Effective December 1, 2024, these methods apply to toothpaste notification and sampling inspections.

SOUTH KOREA

MFDS Adds New Prohibited Raw Materials

MFDS has designated “HHC‑O‑acetate,” an ingredient found in some overseas direct‑purchase products, as prohibited for import into Korea.

JAPAN

Updates to the Designated Food Additive List

Japan’s MHLW has amended its food additive list, removing 3,6‑dimethyl‑5,6,7,7a‑tetrahydro‑2(4H)-benzo furanone from the “Essence List of 18 Kinds,” effective December 31, 2024.

TAIWAN

TFDA to Repeal Regulations on Specific Purpose Cosmetics

The TFDA has proposed repealing five regulations related to specific purpose cosmetics and introducing a new regulation following the discontinuation of this product category. All specific purpose cosmetics will be regulated as general cosmetics beginning July 1, 2024. Public comments are open until May 27, 2024.