On November 27, 2025, China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) released its list of non-compliant imported food products for October 2025. A total of 410 batches from 33 countries and regions were denied entry, representing a month-on-month decrease of approximately 7.4% (down 33 batches from 443 in September) and a year-on-year increase of about 107.1% (up 198 batches from 212 in October 2024).

Key Issues Identified:

The main issues were concentrated in the following areas: detection of melengestrol acetate (32.4%), non-compliant labeling (12.0%), inconsistencies between goods and certificates (12.0%), and failure in sensory inspection (9.8%). In addition, other issues included the detection of animal diseases, non-compliance related to the registration of overseas food manufacturers, the use of unapproved new food ingredients, and the presence of animal- and plant-derived ingredients that have not been granted market access.

49 Batches of Food With Non-Compliant Labeling Were Denied Entry

Notably, in October's list, 49 batches were recorded for labeling non-compliance. These products covered a wide range of categories, including beverages, dairy products, confectionery, condiments, starch products, and alcoholic beverages, and originated from more than ten countries and regions, such as Hong Kong S.A.R (China), Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, Switzerland, the United States, and Argentina.

Well-known brands also appeared on the list, including Mondelez chocolate products, Vitasoy and Coca-Cola beverages, and Nissin instant noodles, underscoring that labeling compliance issues are common across various companies and product types.

What Is a Food Label in China?

Simply put, a food label refers to all text, graphics, symbols, and explanatory materials displayed on food packaging. It serves as the "ID card" of a food product, conveying various types of information to consumers.

China's current food labeling management system is primarily based on the following regulations and standards:

• Administrative Measures for Supervision of Food Labeling

• General Standard for the Labeling of Prepackaged Food (GB 7718-2025)

• General Rules for Nutrition Labeling of Prepackaged Foods (GB 28050)

According to the regulations, pre-packaged foods must carry labels on their packaging, and all label information must be truthful, accurate, and legally compliant. Labels may not contain any false, exaggerated, or misleading claims.

They must also be clear, easy to read, and durable, allowing consumers to quickly identify key information at the point of purchase. In addition, labels must stay securely attached to the food or its packaging and cannot be separated from the product.

What Requirements Must Imported Food Labels Meet in China?

1.General Food Labeling

Under GB 7718-2025 and the Administrative Measures for Supervision of Food Labeling, starting from March 2027, imported pre-packaged foods sold directly to consumers in China must carry a compliant Chinese label on the packaging. The mandatory label information must correspond one-to-one between the Chinese and foreign languages and must include at least the following:

• Product name

• List of ingredients

• Net content and specifications

• Name, address, and contact information of the manufacturer and distributor (including their GACC registration number)

• Country or region of origin

• Date marking

• Storage conditions

• Allergen information

• Nutrition label

2.Nutrition labeling

Nutrition labeling must comply with GB 28050-2025. Starting March 2027, all imported pre-packaged foods (except exempt categories) are required to include nutrition labels in accordance with this standard. Mandatory information includes:

• Energy

• Protein

• Fat

• Saturated fat

• Carbohydrates

• Sugars

• Sodium

• The corresponding Nutrient Reference Values percentage (NRV%)

If the product uses nutrient fortifiers, the fortified nutrient content and its NRV% must be listed in the nutrition facts table. If hydrogenated and/or partially hydrogenated oils are used in production, the trans-fat content must also be declared.

Additionally, the statement "Children and adolescents should avoid excessive intake of salt, oil, and sugar" must be included below the nutrition facts table.

ZMUni Reminder

ZMUni Compliance Centre reminds all industry stakeholders that food safety remains a top priority. Companies are encouraged to strengthen pre-import compliance checks, carefully verify customs documentation, and enhance supplier quality management to reduce the risk of import rejections.

Overseas food manufacturers and importers should stay up to date with the latest food laws and standards, and seek professional compliance guidance when needed to ensure smooth and timely market entry.

For more information on pre-packaged food compliance, you can explore our food services under "China Pre-packaged Food Compliance." In November, ZMUni also hosted a webinar titled China's Updated Food Labeling Rules: Practical Guidance for Overseas Brands. If you would like to access the presentation slides or learn more about our services, please contact us at info@zmuni.com.