Traceability Requirements Extended to Imported Pork in Korea

Like its neighboring country China whose authorities have earmarked implementation of traceability systems as a key food safety focus in recent years, Korea is also acting to strengthen its food traceability systems. Subsequent to the official implementation of the traceability system on domestic pork in June (see ChemLinked News:　 South Korea Officially Implements Pork Traceability System), Korea has just extended traceability requirements to imported pork.

The application scope of the traceability system, which previously only covered livestock products and domestic pork, has been revised and expanded to imported pork upon the recent amendment to Act on Traceability Management of Livestock and its Products. Meat processers and importers shall apply for a tracing number from MAFRA henceforth, and the acquired number shall be presented for custom clearance. Circulation of noncompliant imported pork will be subject to punitive measures.