As 2025 begins, industries worldwide face a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Emerging trends, stricter compliance requirements, and new opportunities are redefining the global market, bringing both challenges and strategic possibilities for businesses.

Our “2025 Regulatory Insights” series offers an in-depth look at critical updates and practical strategies to help you navigate these changes with confidence.

1. China: First National Standard for Food Contact Adhesives to Be Implemented in 2025

In 2024, China introduced its first national standard for food contact adhesives, GB 4806.15-2024, titled National Food Safety Standard Adhesives for Food Contact Materials and Articles. The regulation will come into effect on February 8, 2025.

Compliance Alert:
Adhesives used with food-contact materials must be safety evaluated, considering both the adhesive and substrate interactions, to ensure regulatory compliance.

2. Japan: Revised Standards for Food and Food Additives to Be Released in 2025

Japan has released a draft revision of the Specification and Standards for Food, Food Additives, Etc. in 2024. The updated standards will address food simulant liquids, testing methods, and material specifications. The final version is expected to be published in mid-2025.

3. Japan: Transition Period for Positive List of Food Contact Synthetic Resins Ends in 2025

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) has established a five-year transition period for the positive list of synthetic resins used as primary materials in food utensils, containers, and packaging. This transition period will end on May 31, 2025, at which point Japan will have completed safety evaluations for all “existing substances” and updated the final Positive List.

4. EU: BPA Ban in Food Contact Materials to Take Effect in 2025

The European Commission has formally adopted a regulation banning the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials, which will come into force on January 20, 2025, with an 18-month transition period. This ban will impact products such as metal can coatings, plastic beverage bottles, and adhesives in contact with food or beverages.

5. Switzerland: Updated Food Contact Materials Regulation Effective in 2025

On December 9, 2024, Switzerland’s updated two annexes in the nation’s food contact materials regulation (SR 817.023.21), came into force on January 1, 2025. This revision aligns Switzerland’s food contact material legislation with the latest EU regulations, particularly Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 concerning plastics.

How REACH24H Could Help

At REACH24H, we specialize in providing expert regulatory compliance services for food contact materials and recycled plastics. Our team of experienced consultants is well-versed in the latest regulatory developments across multiple global markets, including China, Japan, the EU, and Switzerland.

We can assist you with:

• Navigating complex regulations, including the new standards for food contact adhesives in China and the EU BPA ban.
• Ensuring your materials comply with the revised Japanese standards and the end of the transition period for synthetic resins.
• Offering tailored solutions to meet the evolving requirements of food safety and packaging laws.
• Providing guidance on compliance timelines and helping you implement necessary changes before regulatory deadlines.

With REACH24H’s global expertise, you can confidently manage compliance risks, mitigate regulatory challenges, and ensure your products remain on the market without disruption. Contact us today for more information or to discuss how we can support your business.