Background
Based on national standards released in 2021, the set ratios for empty space within food packaging were unrealistically small for special dietary foods, including infant formula and foods for special medical purposes (FSMP).
If manufacturers had been compelled to comply, they would have faced significant compliance costs and operational challenges in both online and offline markets. This would have restricted consumer access to essential dietary products.
Result
The European Chamber actively engaged with relevant authorities to highlight the risks and potential negative consequences of these packaging requirements.
On 29th March 2024, the State Administration of Market Regulation (SAMR) issued an amendment to the relevant document. In line with the Chamber’s recommendations, the amendment optimised the packaging requirements for five special dietary food categories.
Impact
- Reduced compliance burden for manufacturers of special dietary foods;
- Safeguarded consumer access to essential nutritional products;
- Reflected regulatory responsiveness to industry input.
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