Classified as Food - What’s Next? Understanding Food Label Compliance
- Admin
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
When launching a food or functional product in Malaysia, compliance isn’t optional but it’s mandatory. Once your product has been classified as a Food Product, the next critical step is ensuring your product label complies with the requirements set by the Food Safety and Quality Division (FSQD) under the Ministry of Health (MOH), as stipulated in the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985.
Getting your food labels right from the beginning helps you avoid enforcement issues, protects your brand reputation, and builds trust with consumers.
Mandatory Information on Food Labels in Malaysia
According to FSQD regulations, all food labels must include the following:
Language Requirements
Labelling shall be in Bahasa Malaysia and may include any translation thereof in any other languages
Product Name
The true name of the food (e.g., “Orange Juice” instead of just “Juice”)
Quantitative Ingredients Declaration (QUID)
Required when certain ingredients are highlighted on the label (via words, pictures or graphics)
Ingredients List
Must be arranged in descending order by weight
Ingredients that may cause hypersensitivity (e.g., soy, milk, gluten) must be clearly indicated
Additives & Colourings
Preservatives, sweeteners and colourants must be declared using specific classes or Codex references
Net Weight / Volume
Declared in metric units (g, kg, ml, l).
The height of the lettering shall be uniform
Manufacturer / Importer Details
Name and address of the owner of the rights of manufacture, local manufacturer, packer or importer
Country of Origin
Required for imported products
Date Marking
“Use by”, “EXP date” or “Best before” dates must be printed clearly, in bold and in capital letters
10. Pictorial Illustration
Only the images of the ingredients may be shown on the label
11. Prohibited Claim
Words indicating grading, quality or superiority or any other words of similar meaning shall not appear on the label
Eg: “Quality Guaranteed”, “Approved by Ministry of Health”
12. Probiotic Culture Statement
If probiotics are added, the label must include: “CONTAINS (quantity) OF PROBIOTIC CULTURES”
Only probiotics listed in the Twelfth A Schedule, Food Regulations 1985 are permitted
13. Nutrition Labelling
Nutrients that must be declared on a nutrition label: Energy, Carbohydrate, Protein, Fat, Total Sugars, Sodium
Common Food Labelling Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using misleading product names (e.g., calling a flavoured drink “juice” when it isn’t)
❌ Missing allergen declaration
❌ Printing expiry dates too small or placing them in hidden areas
❌ Using unpermitted claims such as “cures diabetes” or “treats hypertension”
The Role of FSQD in Food Regulation
The FSQD plays a central role in ensuring food safety and compliance in Malaysia. Their responsibilities include:
Enforcing the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985
Monitoring food safety, quality and labelling accuracy
Reviewing product claims and approving certain categories (e.g., special purpose foods)
Conclusion: Get It Right, From the Label
A compliant label is more than just a requirement. It’s your product’s first impression on consumers and regulators alike. By aligning with FSQD’s food regulations, you not only protect your brand from enforcement issues but also position your product as safe, transparent and trustworthy.
Before finalizing your packaging, always cross-check FSQD’s labelling requirements to ensure your product is fully compliant.
Unsure about whether your label fully complies with food regulation? Regulatory details can get tricky, but that’s where we come in. Our team can walk you through labelling, classification and submission requirements, so you can launch your product with confidence and peace of mind.
Aqurate Ingredients is an international player in supplying functional ingredients and providing innovative solutions to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industry. We believe, a satisfied customer is a repeat customer.
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