The use of functional agricultural products in the functional food labeling system and its challenges after five years

In 2015, the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan launched a new food labeling system known as “Foods with Function Claims (FFC).” This system allows food businesses to independently evaluate the safety and scientific evidence for the food they sell and responsibly label its functionality. To date, the following amendments to the FFC guidelines have been made in relation to fresh foods: the addition of a statement that a portion of the recommended daily intake can be taken, simplification of registration materials, the development of a Q & A section, the inclusion of mild disease range in clinical trials, and clarification of the treatments of pharmaceutical ingredients. In addition, a new guideline for post-checking has been put into operation.