2. Product Categories

Foods with Nutrient Function Claims (FNFC)
Japan

This section provides the regulatory definition of the food category in scope, or the appropriate food category for the product in scope. Additionally, it provides the food products that belong to this food category along with the definition and specific information on each of these types of food products.

2.1 Category Name & Definition

Context

In Japan, food that is allowed to be labeled with certain nutritional or health function claims is of 3 types:

1) Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU) 

FOSHU are scientifically recognized as helpful for maintaining and promoting health and are permitted to bear claims such as "Slows cholesterol absorption." FOSHU requires pre-approval by the Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) who evaluates the claimed effects and safety of the product. 

2) Foods with Function Claims (FFC) 

FFC can be labeled with function claims under the food business operator's own responsibility. Evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of the product must be submitted to the Consumer Affairs Agency before the product is marketed. However, unlike FOSHU, the product is not individually pre-approved. 

3) Foods with Nutrient Function Claims (FNFC) 

FNFC can be used to supplement or complement the daily requirement of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, etc.) which tend to be insufficient in everyday diet. FNFC contain certain amounts of nutrients whose function has already been substantiated by scientific evidence, it can bear a nutrient function claim prescribed by the Standards (currently 1 fatty acid, 6 minerals, and 13 vitamins) without submitting a notification to the government.

Category Name

Foods with Nutrient Function Claims (FNFC)

Definition

FNFCs are pre-packaged food products intended to supplement daily intake of the nutrients specified by the CAA, with claims that describe the well-established functions of the nutrients. Food products that contain a required daily amount of nutrients per serving are allowed to bear prescribed claims without obtaining pre-market approval from or completing a notification to the CAA. Currently, the FNFC claims have been defined for 1 fatty acid, 6 minerals, and 13 vitamins [1].

2.2 Product & Definition

1) Pre-packaged processed foods 

Definition

Pre-packaged processed foods intended for general consumers.

Specifications/Target Age

No specification is defined for this category of foods. While no target age is legally defined, FNFC is generally interpreted as intended for healthy adults (18 years of age or older).

Additional Information

Foods that lead to excessive intake of alcohol, sodium, sugar, etc. shall not be FNFC. 

2) Pre-packaged fresh foods

Definition

Pre-packaged fresh foods intended for general consumers.

Specifications/Target Age

No specification is defined for this category of foods. While no target age is legally defined, FNFC is generally interpreted as intended for healthy adults (18 years of age or older).

Additional Information

Foods that lead to excessive intake of alcohol, sodium, sugar, etc. shall not be FNFC.

2.3 References

1. About Foods with Nutrient Function Claims 

 https://www.caa.go.jp/policies/policy/food_labeling/foods_with_nutrient_function_claims/ (In Japanese)