17-5 |
Laws and regulations governing food in China |
K. R. SCHRANKEL, International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc., 1515 Hwy. 36, Union Beach, NJ 07735-3597 and C. Song, IFF (China) Ltd., Guangzhou Economic & Technical Development, Jinhua 2th St., Guangzhou, 510730, China. Food is a very important element in Chinese culture where eating food is considered an important factor in the quality of life rather than just a nutritional requirement. In China, like many other developing countries, the initial food laws were simple. Today, China's food laws continue to increase in complexity for a variety of reasons. Food borne disease continues to be a concern of consumers and public health authorities. Also, China's desire to become a member of the World Trade Organization is another driving force that has stimulated the public health authorities to become more aware and knowledgeable of the food control legislation and standards in other countries. They have also realized that the exchange of information on their national food hygiene standards is a prerequisite in the international harmonization of food regulations. This presentation will provide an overview of China's food control system including a description of the role and responsibilities of the various government agencies responsible for food control. The Chinese system of food regulation which is based on Food Standards will be reviewed including the National Hygiene Standard, Standards for Food Additives, labeling, functional foods and other regulations that may impact the food industry.
Session 17, Business opportunity in post-China WTO: Part 1: Current status and perspectives
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