In response to a growing interest in health, the "health food" issue was put on a review by the "Study Panel regarding Appropriate "Food with health claims" established in April 2003 from various perspectives regarding health food products such as; the role in the fitness of people, how to ensure the safety and benefit; how to provide proper information to consumers; the role of administration, relevant industries and consumers in consideration of the above; and the way the system should be. As a result, "Appropriate Future "Food with health claims (Proposal)" was drafted as of June 9, 2004. Based on this Proposal and with reference to a technical review conducted by a study group on New FOSHU (Food for Specified Health Uses), " the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has composed a proposed revision of "Food with health claims" system in February and July 2005. Some new categories of FOSHU are established, such as, Qualified FOSHU, Standardized FOSHU and Reduction of disease risk FOSHU. In light of the purpose of the Food with Nutrient Function Claims, it is now required to indicate the name of nutrient for which the function is claimed. Furthermore, in order to correct such a tendency and educate people regarding balanced diet, it is now mandatory to state on a label "For a better diet, balanced meals based on staple foods, main dish and side dish are important." and educate people regarding the Food with Health Claims System including the reviews and revisions made this time.
