History and Evolution of Foreign Substances Regulations

1. Introduction

Definition of Foreign Substances: Foreign substances refer to external substances such as hair, metal fragments, insects, etc., that may be found in food. Various laws and regulations have been established to prevent this.

Importance of Foreign Substances Regulation: It is essential to ensure consumer health and safety.

2. Before the 1960s

Early Food Safety Regulations: Early regulations for food hygiene in Korea were generally simple, and the management system was inadequate.

3. 1962: Establishment of the Food Sanitation Act

Food Sanitation Act: Established in 1962, the Food Sanitation Act first set the standards for hygiene in the manufacturing, processing, storage, and sale of food. Initial standards for foreign substances management were included in this law.

4. The 1980s: Strengthened Hygiene Management

1981: The amendment of the Food Sanitation Act strengthened regulations related to foreign substances inspection. Standards for preventing the mixing of foreign substances during the manufacturing process were added.

1984: Regular food inspections and strengthened standards for foreign substances inspection were introduced.

5. The 2000s: Introduction of Advanced Technologies

2003: The introduction of X-ray inspection equipment and metal detectors greatly improved foreign substances detection technology.

2008: The mandatory application of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) ensured more stringent overall food safety management, including foreign substances control.

6. The 2010s: Improvement of Hygiene Management Systems

2011: The standards for managing different types of foreign substances were further detailed.

2015: The introduction of high-resolution inspection equipment capable of detecting small foreign substances and the establishment of corresponding legal standards.

7. The 2020s: Continuous Updates and Integrated Management

2020: The importance of hygiene management increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and additional regulations and procedures for foreign substances inspection were established.

2022: The adoption of AI-based foreign substances detection systems for food safety and the amendment of related laws.

8. Conclusion

Current and Future Direction: The current foreign substances management regulations have become more precise with the use of advanced technology. Future developments and changes in legal standards must be closely monitored.

Role of Consumers and Industry: Both consumers and food manufacturers must recognize the importance of foreign substances management and strictly adhere to relevant regulations.

 

 

<Reference sites on foreign substances - Food Safety Information>

https://www.foodinfo.or.kr/portal/bbs/detailBBSArticle.do#none

 

<Foreign substances regulations site - Source: Minstry of Government Legislation - Food Sanitation Act>

https://www.law.go.kr/lsSc.do?menuId=1&subMenuId=15&query=%EC%8B%9D%ED%92%88%EC%9C%84%EC%83%9D%EB%B2%95&dt=20201211#undefined