Japan to Repeal Temperature Requirement for Storage of Non-alcoholic Beverages

On 2 Apr 2015, Japan MHLW notified the WTO TBT of the revision of the Standards and Specifications for Foods and Food Additives under the Food Sanitation Law. The pending amendment will exempt non-alcoholic beverages from temperature storage requirements (10°C maximum), when sterilized using methods effective at removing microorganisms that maybe present in the raw ingredients.

Non-alcoholic beverages are currently classified into four categories in Japan:

1. mineral waters (non-alcoholic beverages consisting only of water)

2. frozen fruit beverages

3. fruit juices for ingredients

4. beverages other than those listed in 1) through 3).

The new change has been earmarked for immediate promulgation. When adopted, this amendment will be published in the official Gazette.