"High-Caffeine Content" Labeling

Let's take a look at the labeling criteria for "High-Caffeine Content" recognized by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS).

Relevant Legislation

Regulations on Labeling and Advertising of Foods, etc. (Abbreviation: Food Labeling and Advertising Act Enforcement Rule) [Effective as of July 3, 2024] [Prime Minister’s Decree No. 1966, partially amended on July 2, 2024]

Specific Requirements

High-Caffeine Content Labeling

• Target of Labeling: Liquid foods containing 0.15 milligrams or more of caffeine per milliliter.

Labeling Method

1. On the main display panel (refers to the side of the food package that is typically seen by consumers when purchasing foods, where trademarks or logos are printed), the phrases "High-Caffeine Content" and "Total caffeine content 000 milligrams" must be displayed.
2. A phrase such as "Children, pregnant women, and individuals sensitive to caffeine should exercise caution when consuming this product" must be displayed.

Permitted Tolerance for Total Caffeine Content

• The actual total caffeine content should be within the range of 90% to 110% of the total caffeine content displayed on the main display panel. However, in the case of coffee, tea, or liquid foods made from coffee or tea, the actual total caffeine content should be less than 120% of the total caffeine content displayed on the main display panel.

How to Verify the Regulation

1. Visit the Korea Ministry of Government Legislation website (https://www.law.go.kr/).
2. In the search bar, type "Food Labeling and Advertising Act".
3. Click on "Regulations on Labeling and Advertising of Foods, etc."
4. Click on [Attachment 2] "Mandatory Labeling for Consumer Safety (Related to Article 5 (1))".
5. Check the legal content for "4. High-Caffeine Content Labeling".