Multiple cosmetics items were seized in a Bangkok warehouse

Recently, a child had an allergic reaction after eating imported snacks. The snacks did not have the FDA mark. The child was hospitalized for treatment. This incident quickly drew the high attention of the relevant Thai departments to the issue of imported food supervision. The Consumer Protection Police Department (CPPD) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) quickly launched a joint operation. They targeted stores selling imported Chinese goods. During this inspection, foods without a Thai FDA registration number or label became the focus of attention. There are profound reasons behind this.Due to the lack of necessary markings, these foods can easily mislead consumers about their characteristics, uses, and ingredients. Additionally, the unclear production sources and standards pose hidden risks. These risks could threaten consumers’ health at any time.

During New Year events, purchasing gift baskets has become a common behavior among the public. If a gift basket contains FDA-unapproved products, or if consumers consume them directly, it poses a health threat. The New Year brings a vibrant consumer market, increasing the need to protect public health. Therefore, Thai authorities have decided to intensify the crackdown on stores selling such products.

A special food inspection campaign was launched in Bangkok, Thailand

On Sunday, Thai police and FDA officials joined forces. They conducted a thorough inspection of eight stores in Bangkok selling imported Chinese goods. The operation was highly productive, with a total of 55 types of products seized. The cumulative quantity exceeded 25,823 items, and the total value was over 1,041,670 Thai baht. The seized products were all from China and had Chinese labels. They included a variety of semi-processed and ready-to-eat foods, such as seasoned crispy squid, sunflower seeds, chili sauce, dried fruits, processed meats, seasonings, spices, and sealed beverages. These products were intended to meet the local market’s dietary needs but are under investigation due to certain issues.

During this operation, the products were found to violate the “selling food with incorrect labels” provision of the Food Act of 1979. Businesses in violation could face a maximum fine of 30,000 Thai baht and other penalties set by the FDA. This reflects Thailand’s strict label standardization requirements, aimed at ensuring consumers receive accurate product information.

All imported products, whether sold online or in physical stores, must receive prior approval from the Thai FDA. This mandatory requirement serves as a crucial checkpoint to ensure product quality and safety. Only products that have passed strict reviews and obtained approval can enter the Thai market for circulation. FDA approval means the product complies with Thai laws, regulations, and standards in production, processing, packaging, and labeling. It provides consumers with reliable quality assurance. Consumers should pay close attention to whether imported food has an FDA registration number. If a product lacks this identification, it is wise to be cautious when purchasing.

How to determine whether a product complies with the standards of the Thai FDA?

I. Product Registration and Licensing

1. Verify the Registration Number: Many products sold in Thailand, such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices, need to be registered with the Thai FDA and obtain the corresponding registration number. Check whether there is a clear and valid Thai FDA registration number on the product packaging or instruction manual. You can also verify the authenticity and validity of this number through the official website of the Thai FDA or relevant inquiry channels. For example, pharmaceuticals usually have their registration numbers prominently marked on the packaging.

2. Verify the License: For certain specific types of products, in addition to registration, they may also need to obtain specific licenses. For example, some foods for special purposes, high-risk medical devices, and so on. It is necessary to confirm whether the product has the corresponding license and whether the license is within the validity period.

II. Product Labels and Markings

1.Language Requirements: Product labels must be in Thai, or in both Thai and English. The Thai language markings should be clear and accurate, containing key product information to ensure that Thai consumers can understand. For example, information such as the ingredient list, nutrition facts panel, usage instructions, and shelf life on food labels need to be accurately labeled in Thai.

2.Essential Label Content

• Product Name and Ingredients: The product name should truthfully reflect the nature and characteristics of the product and must not mislead consumers. The ingredient list needs to detail all components, including main ingredients, additives (if any), etc. Ingredients that may cause allergies should be specifically marked. For instance, common allergens in food such as milk, eggs, peanuts, etc., must be clearly labeled.

• Usage Instructions and Warning Information：Correct and clear instructions regarding usage methods, dosages, target user groups, contraindications, etc., as well as necessary warning statements should be provided. For example, drug labels will indicate usage and dosage, adverse reactions, precautions, etc.; cosmetic labels may mark information such as suitable skin types and frequency of use.

• Production Date and Shelf Life：The production date and expiration date or shelf life of the product must be clearly marked, and the format should comply with relevant Thai regulations.

• Manufacturer and Distributor Information：The label should clearly indicate the name and address of the product manufacturer, as well as the name, address, and contact information of the distributor or importer within Thailand. This helps to identify responsibility and maintain FDA standards.

III. Special Requirements for Imported Products

1.Import Documents and Procedures：In addition to meeting the above requirements, imported products also need to go through relevant import procedures, such as import licenses, customs declarations, certificates of origin, etc. Check whether the product has complete and legal import documents, and whether it has been declared and cleared in accordance with Thailand’s import regulations.

2.Compliance with Exporting Country Standards：Imported products should also comply with the relevant standards and regulations of the country of origin. Moreover, they should meet internationally recognized hygiene, quality, and safety requirements in the production, processing, and packaging processes. For example, food imported from the European Union should comply with EU food regulations and standards to align with FDA rules in Thailand.