On May 9, 2025, the Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency released an English translation of frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding the positive list for plastic food contact materials.
Japan implemented a positive list for plastic food contact materials in 2020 (FPF reported). This system permits only substances included on the list to be used in plastic materials intended for contact with food. It applies to polymers used in plastics and coatings, as well as to additives, but it does not cover elastomers like rubber.
The system initially included transitional measures that allowed the continued sale of products already on the market before the regulation came into effect. These measures will expire at the end of May 2025 (FPF reported). Beginning June 1, 2025, plastic food contact materials must comply with the positive list. Businesses selling plastic utensils, containers, and packaging materials are also required to demonstrate compliance to their customers.
Additionally, the agency has published a draft proposal detailing how new substances can be added to the positive list and allowing reassessment of substances already included in the positive list. If new evidence indicates that a listed substance may pose a risk to human health, the Food Safety Commission of Japan may conduct a reassessment. The outcomes of such assessments will be made available on the agency’s website.
References
Consumer Affairs Agency (May 9, 2025) “Questions & answers on the positive list system.”
Consumer Affairs Agency (May 14, 2025) “Establishment of a public notice for apparatus, containers, and packaging.”
Lam Lye Ching (May 16, 2025) “Japan publishes positive list requirements for FCMs in English.” Chemical Watch News & Insight
