Consumer Health – USA/Europe/Asia/ROW Regulatory News – Jan 2025

USA

FDA Proposes Requiring At-a-Glance Nutrition Information on the Front of Packaged Foods

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is announcing an important step to provide nutrition information to consumers by proposing to require a front-of-package (FOP) nutrition label for most packaged foods. This proposal plays a key role in the agency’s nutrition priorities, which are part of a government-wide effort in combatting the nation’s chronic disease crisis. If finalized, the proposal would give consumers readily visible information about a food’s saturated fat, sodium and added sugars content—three nutrients directly linked with chronic diseases when consumed in excess.

FDA Proposes Significant Step Toward Reducing Nicotine to Minimally or Nonaddictive Level in Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a proposed rule that, if finalized, would make cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products minimally or nonaddictive by limiting the level of nicotine in those products. If finalized, the United States would be the first country globally to take such a bold, life-saving action to prevent and reduce smoking-related disease and death. The FDA first announced its intent to propose such a rule External Link Disclaimer in 2018, and today’s announcement is an important next step in the rulemaking process External Link Disclaimer. The agency intends to seek input on the proposal, including through public comment and the FDA’s Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee.

FDA Requests Information on Poppy Seeds

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today issued a Request for Information (RFI) on industry practices related to poppy seeds. The FDA is interested in better understanding the agricultural, industry, manufacturing, and supply chain practices currently being used, and whether certain practices increase or reduce the presence of opiate alkaloids on poppy seeds.

EUROPE

One Health: EU agencies unite to tackle azole fungicide resistance in Aspergillus fungi

The extensive use of azole fungicides (azoles), particularly in some agricultural and horticultural practices, can increase the risk of Aspergillus fungi developing resistance to essential antifungal treatments. This significant finding is highlighted in a report by the five EU health and environment agencies, with support from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). The Agencies collaborated under a One Health approach to address this growing threat.

New advice and app to manage process water for fruit, vegetables and herbs

In recent years, pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and STEC have caused major outbreaks in the European Union that were related to the consumption of fresh and frozen fruit, vegetables and herbs. The quality of water and its industrial use is an increasing global concern, not only because poor water quality can introduce harmful microorganisms into food products but also due to climate change and the expected reduction in water availability. EFSA’s experts analysed the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of water used to process fruit, vegetables and herbs in industrial settings. They also prepared a set of process water management plans and an online tool, which can help industry improve their water management systems. 

ASIA

SINGAPORE

E-vaporisers, Duty-unpaid Cigarettes and Illicit Substances Found in Industrial Unit

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) uncovered an e-vaporiser distribution network, leading to the seizure of more than 8,700 e-vaporisers and related components over two days on 6 and 7 January 2025. Illicit items such as duty-unpaid cigarettes and small packets of substances suspected to be controlled drugs were also seized. 

INDONESIA

National Nutrition Agency Synergy Monitors MBG Food Safety

Head of BPOM Taruna Ikrar together with the Head of the National Nutrition Agency Dadan Hindayana agreed on synergy in supporting the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in Indonesia. This agreement was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Synergy of the Free Nutritious Meals Program.

ROW

BRAZIL

CP opens on lists of restricted and prohibited substances in hygiene products, perfumes and cosmetics

Anvisa has opened two public consultations on the Lists of restricted and prohibited substances for use in hygiene products, perfumes and cosmetics, which are available for evaluation and contributions until March 7.

Public Consultation  1,304/2024  deals with a proposal to update the list of substances that are prohibited in hygiene products, perfumes and cosmetics, as they do not have a safety profile compatible with these health categories.

Public Consultation  1,305/2024  deals with a proposal to update the list of substances that, for safe use in hygiene products, perfumes and cosmetics, must comply with the technical-regulatory restrictions provided for, such as concentration.