Japan adds one chemical to the Essential Monomers list under FCM Positive list

On 4 July 2025, Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) released notice 437 regarding the addition of one chemical to the list of essential monomers which constitutes the base material in the Table 1, Appendix 1 of the Standards for Food, Additives.  

3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol (CAS no 4457-71-0) has been added to the monomers list and, at the same time, removed from the optional substances list. The CAA started enforcing notice 437 from the date of publication. 

Standards and Criteria for Foods, Food Additives  

Requirements and guidelines for foods, milk and milk products, food additives, equipment, containers and packaging governed by the Food Sanitation Act and other laws are contained in the Standards and Criteria for Foods, Food Additives. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) updates these standards on a regular basis to ensure they remain current and to safeguard the environment and public health. 

Key Insights from the Notice 

• The revision relates to Attachment 12, which governs polymers primarily composed of ester bonds. 

• The monomer “3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol” has been reclassified: 

• Previously listed under “Optional Substances” 

• Now moved to the category of “Essential Monomers” 

• This change is in response to requests from industry stakeholders. 

Obligations for Stakeholders 

Only entries listed in the positive list (Base materials and Additives) of the Food Contact Materials (FCMs) are allowed to be used. New entities which are not listed must undergo a safety review procedure.