Consumer Health – USA, Europe, Asia and ROW Regulatory News – May 2025

USA

FDA Approves Three Natural Food Colors, Advancing Shift Away from Petroleum-Based Dyes

On May 9, 2025, the FDA approved three new color additives – Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea    flower extract, and calcium phosphate expanding natural options for food manufacturers. The approvals align with HHS efforts to phase out petroleum-based dyes and promote healthier food choices.

HHS and FDA Launch Comprehensive Nutrient Review for Infant Formula

On May 13, 2025, HHS and FDA announced a comprehensive review of nutrient standards in infant formula under Operation Stork Speed. This marks the first full review since 1998, aiming to update nutrient levels based on current science and improve infant health outcomes.

FDA Announces Expanded Use of Unannounced Inspections at Foreign Manufacturing Facilities

On May 6, 2025, the U.S. FDA announced it will expand unannounced inspections at foreign manufacturing facilities producing food and medical products for the U.S. market. The initiative aims to align oversight standards with domestic practices, improve regulatory integrity, and protect public health.

EUROPE

Pesticide Residues in EU Food: Risk Remains Low in 2023

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reports that pesticide residue levels in commonly consumed foods across the EU remain low and largely compliant with safety standards. Analysis of over 13,000 random samples and more than 132,000 targeted samples in 2023 shows 98–99% compliance with maximum residue levels (MRLs). EFSA’s dietary risk assessment confirms low health risk for consumers and recommends continued monitoring and investigation of non-compliant pesticide-crop combinations.

AUSTRALIA

FSANZ and Health Canada collaborate on GM food assessments

FSANZ and Health Canada have launched a Shared Assessment Process (SAP) for genetically modified (GM) foods, allowing joint scientific evaluations while maintaining independent decisions. The initiative reduces duplication, shortens approval times, and upholds safety standards. Joint guidance has been issued to support applicants through the new process.

Safe Food Australia – A Guide to the Food Safety Standards

Published on 22 May 2025, Safe Food Australia is a guide to four mandatory food safety standards: Interpretation and Application, Food Safety Practices, Food Safety Management Tools, and Food Premises and Equipment. Designed for regulatory agencies and food businesses, this fourth edition includes updated guidance, templates, and new content on food safety culture.

Updated GMP Clearance Information for Sponsors

As of May 21, 2025, updates to GMP clearance resources include guidance on Health Canada inspection reliance, use of Letters of Access, and evidence requirements under Annex 16 of the PIC/S Guide to GMP. The application user guide has also been revised with new e-form instructions.

BRAZIL

Anvisa Defines New Criteria for Accepting Amendments to Cosmetics Petitions

Starting June 9, Anvisa will only accept amendments to registration and post-registration petitions for personal hygiene products, cosmetics, and perfumes if they are submitted before the start of technical analysis. Amendments containing mandatory documents missing at filing will lead to petition rejection. Once the petition is under technical review, no amendments will be accepted to ensure process integrity and compliance with RDC 204 and legal advice from Anvisa’s Attorney General.

Anvisa Suspends Power Green Brand Supplements

Anvisa has suspended the sale, distribution, advertising, and use of all batches of Power Green supplements sold online due to misclassification as dietary supplements and inclusion of ingredients not permitted in supplements. The products also featured unauthorized health claims. Anvisa reminds consumers that dietary supplements are not medicines and should not be marketed with disease treatment or cure claims.

Anvisa Updates Schedule for Integrated Payment of Health Surveillance Fee

Anvisa has revised the timeline for integrating the Health Surveillance Inspection Fee (TFVS) payment into the Single Foreign Trade Portal following system adjustments. The new implementation dates cover import petitions for food, cosmetics, sanitizing products, drugs, controlled substances, and medical devices.

INDIA

FSSAI Proposes Fixed Renewal Dates and Long-Term License Validity for FBOs

On 20th May 2025, FSSAI issued a consultation paper proposing reforms to simplify the renewal process of FSSAI licenses and registrations. Key proposals include:

1. Fixed renewal cycles — allowing FBOs to choose from four standardized renewal dates (15 Jan, 15 Apr, 15 Jul, 15 Oct) for uniformity.
2. 10-year license validity — offering long-term licenses (up to 10 years) for food businesses under the trade/retail category such as storage, wholesaling, retailing, and e-commerce.
3. Minimum 3-year registration validity — eliminating 1- and 2-year options to reduce the burden on small FBOs.

Stakeholders are invited to submit comments via Google Form within 30 days of the notice.

Mandatory Closure Report Submission After FSSAI License/Registration Expiry

On 14th May 2025, FSSAI issued an order mandating all Food Business Operators (FBOs) whose FSSAI License or Registration expired during FY 2024–25 to submit a Closure Report through the FoSCoS portal. This report must confirm whether the food business has ceased operations at the premises or if a new license/registration has been obtained, along with reasons for non-renewal. Going forward, submission of closure reasons will be compulsory upon license expiry. Failure to comply may be treated as a violation under Section 31 of the FSS Act, 2006, and can attract penalties up to ₹10 lakhs under Section 63. FBOs are advised to ensure their email IDs are updated in FoSCoS to receive timely notices. A user manual for the submission process is also provided.

FSSAI Advisory: Discontinuation of the Use of “100%” on Food Labels and Promotions

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory directing all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to stop using the term “100%” on food product labels, packaging, and promotional materials. This move follows concerns that such claims are ambiguous, potentially misleading, and not defined under the FSS Act, 2008 or its associated regulations. As per the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, all claims must be truthful, unambiguous, and not mislead consumers. The term “100%” may wrongly imply absolute purity or superiority, affecting fair competition and consumer perception.

Spurious Batch of Dmex Colecalciferol Tablets Identified in January 2025 Drug Alert

In the revised Drug Alert for January 2025, a batch of Dmex Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Tablets B.P., bearing batch number 4D077301, manufactured in September 2023 with an expiry of August 2026, has been declared spurious. Although the product label claimed it was manufactured by M/s Aeron Lifesciences Pvt. Ltd., Kathwada, Ahmedabad, the company has denied producing this batch. The drug was found to be non-compliant during an assay test for Cholecalciferol conducted by the Drugs Inspector, Ahmedabad Zone. Following investigation, it was confirmed that the impugned product was not manufactured by the claimed company, classifying it as a spurious drug, which poses significant health risks due to its unknown origin and unverified composition.

Guidelines for Use of Recycled PET as Food Contact Material (FCM-rPET) – FSSAI Notification

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, issued a notification on 23rd May 2025 providing guidelines for the acceptance of recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) as Food Contact Material (FCM-rPET). The guidelines define standards for recycling processes, testing, validation, marking, and documentation to ensure the safety and quality of FCM-rPET. Only FSSAI-approved recycling technologies with validated decontamination steps are permitted. Manufacturers must comply with regulatory and quality standards, undergo audits, and obtain authorization to produce FCM-rPET.

FSSAI Proposes Restriction on Registration Facility for Certain High-Risk Food Products

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), through a consultation paper dated 1st May 2025, has proposed to restrict the option of Registration for manufacturing certain high-risk food categories, including infant foods, milk powders, condensed milk, packaged drinking water, mineral water, and non-carbonated water-based beverages. Only State or Central Licenses will be permitted going forward. A 6-month transition period is proposed for existing Registered FBOs to shift to Licensing. Pre-license inspections will also become mandatory for select product categories. Stakeholders can submit their comments within 30 days via the provided Google Form.

FSSAI Cracks Down on Illegal Artificial Ripening of Fruits

On 16th May 2025, FSSAI issued an order directing State/UT Food Safety Commissioners and Regional Directors to intensify surveillance against the illegal use of calcium carbide (“masala”) and other unauthorized ripening agents like ethephon solution in fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas. These substances pose serious health risks and are prohibited under the FSS (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. The order urges enforcement drives, inspections of godowns, and use of strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas, with prosecution under the FSS Act for violations.

INDONESIA

BPOM and Barantin Strengthen Food Safety Oversight Through Strategic Collaboration

On May 22, 2025, BPOM and the Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantin) reaffirmed their commitment to food safety through a strategic meeting in Jakarta. The two agencies agreed to enhance cooperation via a forthcoming MoU, aiming for integrated supervision of animal, fish, and plant-based food products. Discussions focused on data sharing, harmonized standards, and pre-border inspections. This collaboration boosts inspection efficiency, strengthens export readiness, and supports Indonesia’s global food safety standing.

BPOM and BGN Strengthen Oversight of Free Nutritious Meals Program

At a Hearing Meeting with Commission IX of the DPR on May 21, 2025, BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar and BGN Head Dadan Hindayana reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing food safety in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. Discussions focused on implementing HACCP standards, improving SPPG facility hygiene, and preventing food poisoning through early detection and education. BPOM emphasized its involvement in every stage of MBG—from raw material handling to food container sanitation—and called for a legal framework to solidify agency roles and ensure the program’s long-term success.

JAPAN

Consultation Open for New Substances under Positive List System (Until May 31, 2025) As part of Japan’s amended Food Sanitation Act, a Positive List system for food utensils, containers, and packaging is now in effect. Stakeholders can submit opinions on substances not previously used as raw materials (and not covered by transitional measures) until May 31, 2025. These substances cannot be manufactured, imported, or sold until officially included in the Positive List (Appendix 1). Submissions should be made to the Food Sanitation Standards Inspection Division using the designated form.

MALYASIA

NPRA 2025 Guidance: Verification Requirements for Traditional Medicines and Health Supplements

In May 2025, the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), Ministry of Health Malaysia, released the second edition of its Guidance Document for Verification of Traditional Medicines (TM) and Health Supplements (HS) Manufacturers. This updated guidance sets out a structured five-year roadmap (2023–2027) for verifying equipment, utilities, and manufacturing processes. It mandates proper documentation, implementation of three-stage equipment verification (Installation, Operational, and Performance), and excludes retrospective verification. The document aligns with ASEAN GMP standards and emphasizes a risk-based approach to ensure product safety and quality in the TMHS sector.

MOH Malaysia Bans SERI AYU SECRET Cream for Containing Toxic Mercury

The Ministry of Health Malaysia has banned the cosmetic product SERI AYU SECRET – Radiant Repair Cream after it was found to contain mercury, a scheduled poison. Mercury poses serious health risks, including kidney and nerve damage. The product’s notification has been cancelled, and sales are now illegal under the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984. Consumers are urged to stop using the product immediately and seek medical advice if adverse effects occur. Sellers and distributors face heavy fines or imprisonment for violations.

MOH Malaysia Bans Two Cosmetic Products for Containing Dangerous Prescription Drugs

The Ministry of Health Malaysia has banned HEBE – Micro Rescue Cream and CLOROC Reju Creamafter they were found to contain scheduled poisons—clindamycin, metronidazole, tretinoin, and betamethasone 17-valerate. These ingredients are prescription-only medicines and may cause serious side effects if used without medical supervision. The products’ notifications have been revoked, and their sale is now illegal under Malaysian law. Consumers are urged to stop using the products immediately and consult healthcare professionals if adverse effects occur.

MEXICO

Mexico Recognized as International Benchmark for Gender-Focused Food Security Public Policies

Mexico is acknowledged for its leading public cooperation policies addressing hunger and inequality with a gender perspective. Through welfare programs and partnerships with FAO and UNDP, Mexico promotes sustainable development, family farming, and nutritional improvements in Latin America and the Caribbean. The government emphasizes empowering women and ensuring the constitutional right to food as key elements in the fight against poverty and malnutrition.

NIGERIA

Guidelines on Labeling Requirements for Semi-Processed Food Products for Export from Nigeria

These guidelines from NAFDAC outline the labeling requirements for semi-processed food products exported from Nigeria. They specify mandatory information such as product name, ingredient list with allergen declarations, net quantity, country of origin, manufacturer/exporter details, batch identification, storage instructions, nutritional information, and regulatory compliance markings. The aim is to ensure compliance with international standards, enhance transparency, and facilitate market access while protecting consumer safety.

Public Alert No. 015/2025 – Recall of Substandard Juhel Folic Acid Tablet

NAFDAC has issued a recall of Juhel Folic Acid 5mg x1000 tablets (Batch No. 0531) due to substandard quality identified during post-marketing surveillance. The issue, traced to a malfunction in the tablet machine’s weight adjuster, resulted in low API content. Distributors, retailers, and healthcare providers are urged to remove the affected batch from circulation and report adverse events to NAFDAC.

PHILIPPINES

FDA Urges Suspension of New Regulatory Fees Under AO No. 2024-0016

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has requested the Department of Health to approve a 60-day suspension of Administrative Order No. 2024-0016, which raises registration and CPR fees for health products. FDA Director General Paolo S. Teston emphasized fairness and transparency in regulatory reforms during a congressional briefing, highlighting the need for improved service delivery to justify any fee increases.

SINGAPORE

Recall of Binggrae Power Cap Watermelon Ice Tube Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen

The Singapore Food Agency has initiated a recall of Binggrae Power Cap Watermelon Flavoured Ice Tube from South Korea, imported by F&N Creameries (S) Pte. Ltd., due to the presence of undeclared milk allergen. The recall follows an alert from New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries. Individuals allergic or intolerant to milk are advised not to consume the product and to seek medical advice if symptoms occur. Proper allergen labelling is mandatory under Singapore’s food regulations to protect sensitive consumers.

HSA Publishes Bi-Annual Screening and Applicant Response Times

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) reported its mean screening times for new and major variation applications submitted between 1 Oct 2024 and 31 Mar 2025. Screening times averaged 33.0 working days (WD) for NDA, 34.3 WD for GDA, and 24.0 WD for MAV. Applicant response times during the same period were 31.5 WD for NDA, 40.6 WD for GDA, and 13.2 WD for MAV, demonstrating continued efficiency in regulatory processing.

SOUTH KOREA

Extension of Health Functional Food Pilot Project for Individual Online Transactions until December 31, 2025

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has extended the Small-Scale Individual-to-Individual Health Functional Food Pilot Project until December 31, 2025. Initially launched on May 8 last year, the project allows safe, small-scale individual sales of health functional foods via online second-hand trading platforms. With no reported safety issues so far, the guidelines are being refined to align with transaction realities—such as adjusting cumulative transaction limits and expiration date requirements—while enhancing consumer protection. The Ministry also plans to expand platform participation and strengthen monitoring, education, and consumer safety measures.

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to Strengthen Reliability of Cosmetic Labeling and Advertising

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety will hold a regular meeting with the Korea Cosmetic Association and the Korea Human Application Testing Institutions Council on May 16 to enhance cooperation in improving the reliability and objectivity of cosmetic labeling and advertising. Discussions will focus on institutional improvements, monitoring measures, and feedback on revised human application test guidelines. The Ministry aims to prevent consumer harm from false or exaggerated cosmetic claims and strengthen the global competitiveness of K-cosmetics through better regulation and private-sector collaboration.

2025 One Asia Cosmetics Regulatory Innovation Forum Successfully Concludes in Seoul

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety hosted the 2025 One Asia Cosmetics Regulatory Innovation Forum from May 28 to May 30 in Seoul, bringing together over 600 participants including nine Asian regulatory bodies, industry leaders, and global experts. The event strengthened multilateral and bilateral regulatory cooperation, particularly with countries like Saudi Arabia and Thailand, and facilitated business meetings between domestic companies and foreign regulators. It served as a global platform to share insights on cosmetics trends, regulatory innovation, and AI applications, further positioning Korea as a leader in K-cosmetics regulatory diplomacy.

Korea’s 2024 Food Industry Production Hits KRW 114.8 Trillion — Driven by Health Trends and K-Food Exports

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced that Korea’s 2024 food industry productionreached KRW 114.8 trillion, marking a 5.8% increaseyear-on-year. Growth was driven by health-conscious trends such as “Sugar Zero” products (↑20.1%), plant-based foods (↑429.7%), and high-protein products (↑24.0%). Livestock products also rose, fueled by demand for low-salt, low-sugar, and high-protein options. Exports hit USD 7.26 billion, up 10%, with strong performances in ramen, convenience food, and seasoned seaweed. The report highlights shifting consumption patterns toward “Healthy-Pleasure” and “Well-Aging” lifestyles, reflecting growing consumer focus on health and quality of life.

South Korea’s 2024 Food Industry: Growth Driven by Health Trends and Market Leaders

In 2024, South Korea’s food industry was led by packaged meats—particularly pork and beef—alongside a strong performance from ready-to-eat and convenience foods, sauces, and bread. Instant foods topped the processed food sector, accounting for 9% of total production, while sodium hydroxide solution dominated the food additive market. In the livestock segment, pork remained the most produced item, followed by beef and seasoned meats, collectively making up over 76% of livestock product output. Vitamins and minerals surpassed red ginseng as the leading health functional food, highlighting a shift toward preventive health. CJ CheilJedang retained its top position in food manufacturing, with LG Chem and Seoul Milk leading in food additives and livestock, respectively. Overall, the top 10 companies in each category continued to dominate market share, reflecting strong consolidation across Korea’s food, livestock, and health functional food industries.

K-Beauty Strengthens Global Presence Through 2025 One Asia Cosmetics Regulatory Innovation Forum

South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) hosted the 2025 One Asia Cosmetics Regulatory Innovation Forum from May 28 to 30 at COEX, Seoul, marking a significant shift toward deeper regulatory diplomacy in the booming K-beauty industry. With participation from regulators of nine countries — including newcomers from the Middle East and Central Asia — the event focused on harmonizing regulations, promoting safe global trade, and enhancing the competitiveness of Korean cosmetics. Sessions included discussions on global market trends, regulatory strategies, and cutting-edge innovations such as AI-powered beauty tech. The forum also featured bilateral meetings, including one with Saudi Arabia, to strengthen export pathways. Running alongside the event, the Cosmo Beauty Seoul X K-Beauty Festa showcased the excellence of domestic cosmetics to global audiences.

Recall Issued for Chinese Frozen Blueberries Due to Excessive Fungicide Residue

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced the recall and halt of sales for frozen blueberries imported from China by Hee-Mang-Sa-Sa Co., Ltd., after detecting procymidone residue levels exceeding the safety standard. Consumers who purchased products with an expiration date of February 28, 2027, are advised to stop consumption and return the items. Authorities continue monitoring and urge reporting of any food safety violations.

Korea and China Deepen Food Standards Cooperation at 16th Expert Meeting

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) held the 16th Korea-China Food Standards Expert Meeting in Hefei, China from May 28 to 31 to enhance bilateral cooperation on food standards and support K-food exports. The meeting addressed key issues such as regulatory updates, pesticide and veterinary drug management, and new technologies like cell-cultured foods. Korea also pushed for easing China’s strict labeling requirements on fish cakes to reduce export barriers. The two countries aim to align recognition standards for emerging food technologies, with joint efforts continuing through international platforms like CODEX.

K-Beauty Export Surges, U.S. Overtakes China as Top Growth Market

Korea’s cosmetics exports hit a record $10.18 billion in 2024, up 20.3% year-on-year, with the U.S. surpassing China as the largest growth contributor, rising 56.4%. Key growth areas include basic skincare, color cosmetics, and body cleansing products. Exports to emerging markets such as Poland, UAE, and Indonesia also saw notable increases. Meanwhile, imports slightly rose to $1.32 billion, with France and the U.S. as leading sources. The data reflects K-beauty’s expanding global footprint and shifting market dynamics amid evolving consumer preferences and regulatory strategies

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety Warns on Hazardous Overseas Direct Purchase Foods

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) highlights concerns about hazardous ingredients found in overseas direct purchase foods, including 3,777 products with 22 containing banned substances. Consumers are urged to check the ‘Overseas Direct Purchase Food Properly’ website before buying to avoid harmful items containing ingredients like Buchu leaf, Andrographis, and Gymnema, which pose health risks. The MFDS emphasizes not reselling these products and offers easy access to safety information through its website and QR codes.

Recall of 13 Health Functional Foods Due to Ethyl Acetate Standard Violations

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced the recall and sales suspension of 13 health functional food products manufactured by Amorepacific and Cosmax Bio. These products, containing green tea extract, were found to exceed the permitted ethyl acetate levels despite being reported as not containing the solvent. Consumers are advised to stop consumption and return the products. The detected ethyl acetate levels are below harmful intake thresholds, but the recall is due to regulatory non-compliance.

Safe Use of Acne-Related Cosmetics: Summer Guidelines from MFDS

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has issued safety guidelines for using body-cleansing functional cosmetics designed to help relieve acne-prone skin, especially during the summer. While ingredients like salicylic acid can help manage excess sebum and dead skin cells, these products do not treat acne and should not be applied to mucous membranes or damaged skin. Consumers are advised to avoid products with false or exaggerated claims and consult specialists if side effects occur. The Ministry emphasizes checking official product information and plans to continue providing safety tips for everyday cosmetic use.

2025 APEC Food Safety Forum Highlights Korea’s Leadership in Digital Innovation

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety hosted the 2025 APEC Food Safety Cooperation Forum (FSCF) in Jeju (May 12–13), focusing on sustainable food safety under the theme “Ensuring Sustainable Food Safety through Connection, Innovation, and Prosperity.” As FSCF Chair, Korea led discussions among 14 APEC member economies, showcasing digital innovations like the SAFE-i24 AI-based risk system and the ‘Food QR’ platform. The forum promoted international collaboration, highlighted best practices from members like Australia, Taiwan, and New Zealand, and reinforced Korea’s role in global food safety leadership.

MFDS Eases Rules to Stabilize Food Raw Material Supply Amid Global Crises

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) will implement two regulatory reforms in the imported food sector from May 15, 2025, allowing the sale of imported raw materials between manufacturers without strict prior conditions. This change, part of the “Food and Drug Regulation Innovation 3.0 Task,” aims to ease raw material shortages during crises like wars or pandemics, ensuring steady food production and reducing the economic burden on businesses.

MFDS Cracks Down on Unsafe Health Functional Foods and False Online Ads Ahead of Family Month

In a pre-Family Month safety campaign (April 7–18), the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) inspected 1,971 health functional food businesses, uncovering six violations across manufacturing, distribution, and imports. Three products (1 domestic, 2 imported) failed safety standards for probiotic content and stability, with one import rejected at customs. Additionally, 104 cases of false or misleading online advertisements were detected and blocked. The MFDS will continue enhancing consumer protection through regular inspections and stricter regulation of health food advertising.

VIETNAM

Authorities Investigate Unregistered Supplement Ads by “Ngan Collagen”

On May 25, 2025, Vietnam’s Food Safety Department requested urgent inspections of products advertised by “Ngan Collagen” due to violations of food safety regulations. Two dietary supplements—Apple Candy to Eliminate Belly Fat and N-Collagen Chanh Plus—were promoted without proper registration or advertising approval. Local food safety departments in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have been instructed to inspect production sites, verify compliance, and test for prohibited substances. The products are linked to N-Collagen Import-Export Co., Ltd. and multiple companies in Hanoi involved in manufacturing and distribution.

Circulation of ALMERCRÈME Non-Dairy Creamer Temporarily Suspended Over Labeling Violation

On May 30, 2025, the Food Safety Department issued a notice to temporarily suspend the circulation of ALMERCRÈME R941 Non-Dairy Creamer (Batch No. 0009529937) due to mandatory labeling violations regarding ingredient content. The product, self-declared by Thai Son Bac Trading and Service Co., Ltd. and manufactured in Malaysia, was found at Vinmate Trading & Service Co., Ltd. in Bac Ninh. Circulation is halted from May 28, 2025, and the product may only resume distribution after corrective actions are verified and approved within 10 days.

Food Safety Department Revokes Product Declarations for Multiple Health Protection Foods

The Food Safety Department has revoked the validity of Certificates of Registration for several health protection food products due to regulatory non-compliance. Companies affected include Thanh Phat Pharmaceutical JSC (14 products), IAP Investment and Trading JSC (21 products), ABDK Australia Co. Ltd., Phuc Dan Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (now PMPHARCO), HAKI PRO Trading & Service Co. Ltd., and Bao Tam Herbal Medicine & Medical Equipment Co. Ltd. The revocations were issued through Decisions No. 231–266/QD-ATTP from May 20 to May 30, 2025, impacting product legality and market circulation.

WARNING: Hong Hac Phuc Linh Weight Loss Capsules Contain Banned Substance Sibutramine

The Food Safety Department has issued a warning after detecting banned substances—Sibutramine, Desmethylsibutramine, and Didesmethylsibutramine—in the Hong Hac Phuc Linh weight loss capsules (lot 01022024). The product was sampled from a pharmacy in Tien Giang Province. Both the stated distributor (Phu Hung Me., JSC) and manufacturer (HADU Factory) denied producing this batch. Consumers are advised not to purchase or use the product and to report sightings to authorities.