Korea to Expand Food Allergen Mandatory Labeling Scope

On April 8, 2015, MFDS announced the expansion of food allergen labeling scope and the revision of labeling methods for allergens. This revised regulation will be formally implemented as of the date of announcement for foods manufactured or imported for the first time after the announcement. This new regulation will be applicable to all other foods from 2017 onwards.

Previously, the labeling of 13 categories of allergens was required, including eggs, milk, buckwheat, peanuts, soybeans, wheat, mackerel, crab, shrimp, pork, peaches, tomatoes and sulphite. The new regulation adds walnuts, chicken, beef, squid, oyster, abalone and mussel as mandatory labeling items when used as food raw materials.

There should be a separate area on packages specifically designated for allergen labeling and, the color of allergen warnings should contrast with overall package color.