South Korea Updates Labeling Standards for Consumer Chemical Products

Recently, the Ministry of Environment (MOE) of South Korea issued Notice No. 2024-213, announcing a proposal to revise the Designation of Consumer Chemical Products Subject to Safety Verification, and Safety and Labeling Standards Thereof and is requesting public comments.

Main contents

a. Establishes a Misidentification and Confusion Review Committee for Consumer Chemical Products

Given that some consumer chemical products (such as cleaners, disinfectants, etc.) on the market have packaging or labeling that might be mistaken for food, the MOE proposes to establish a Misidentification and Confusion Review Committee. It aims to review the packaging and labeling of these products to ensure they meet safety standards and to prevent consumer misuse due to their similar appearance, packaging, or labeling to foods.

b. Adds new marking for product changes

In response to the phenomenon of companies increasing the unit price of products by reducing product specifications (commonly referred to as shrinkflation) in recent years, the MOE requires that if a company reduces the weight, volume, or quantity of a product, it must clearly indicate this change on the appearance or packaging within three months. This marking can be a sticker but must be secure and recognizable. If the unit price has not increased, or the quantity of a product has increased, there is no need to update the label. This measure aims to make consumer information more transparent and support consumers in making reasonable choices.

Submission of comments

Organizations or individuals with comments on this draft proposal should submit them to the MOE by April 16, 2024, including support or opposition and the reasons for them. Opinions can be submitted via email to heroyoon@korea.kr.

Implementation date

In addition, this revision will come into effect on January 1, 2025, and will apply to products manufactured or imported thereafter. The provisions of the committee will come into effect from the publication of the notice.

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Further Information 

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