Japan approves FDCA for food-contact use under Positive List system

Japan has officially approved FDCA (2,5-furandicarboxylic acid) for food-contact applications under its newly implemented Positive List system, effective 1 June 2025. This approval allows wider use of PEF (polyethylene furanoate), a plant-based plastic derived from FDCA, in food packaging across Japan.

The Positive List system ensures only safe substances are used in food-contact materials. With FDCA now included, Avantium’s sustainable PEF packaging gains regulatory clearance in one of Asia’s key markets, joining prior approvals in Europe and the US. This milestone supports the broader adoption of renewable and circular plastics in food packaging.

More information online