Starting next year, if expressions related to hangover relief are used in food advertisements or displayed on product surfaces, one must have human application test validation data and undergo a review by the Korea Food Industry Association.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on the 30th introduced major changes in food safety regulations taking effect in January next year.
One of the significant changes is that when using expressions like "hangover cure" or "the day after drinking" that may mislead consumers into thinking they help alleviate symptoms caused by drinking, the product must undergo a review. If companies wish to use such expressions in their product promotions, they must provide scientific data to substantiate the efficacy and effects of hangover relief. The review will be conducted by the Korea Food Industry Association, which is a self-regulatory body. Failure to provide documentation or continuing to display or advertise hangover-related claims with invalid submissions may result in an administrative penalty of up to one month of business suspension.
A Ministry of Food and Drug Safety official noted, "For products that were distributed before the implementation of the system, modifications to labeling and advertising will be allowed only if they have human application test validation data."