July 19, 1999

ALL BUSINESS– Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery (MAFF) wants food manufacturers to clearly label their packaging for any ingredients that have been genetically modified (GMOs). The measure will be applied to tofu, snacks and tempura flour, among other products designated by the ministry and will include imported foodstuffs. However, the new rules will allow exemptions of products in which modified ingredients are used but have been dissolved or removed during the manufacturing process. These products include cooking oil and soy sauce.

The ministry says compulsory labeling is a prudent measure considering growing consumer concerns about genetically altered food products. However, actual implementation of the new labeling rules is expected to be limited as food makers already are voicing opposition to the ministry’s plan, claiming that it will be technically difficult to maintain the trustworthiness of such labeling. Some consumer groups worry that products made from rapeseed, cotton and potatoes may be left out of the compulsory labeling because tracing GMOs in those ingredients can involve a complex testing process. The groups say labeling should cover farm products before they are processed, thereby ensuring that all food containing modified ingredients can be identified.

Continue reading about Japan Started Mandatory GMO Labeling in ’99.

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