Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s tariff policy
The decision is likely to spark a wave of lawsuits from businesses across the food and beverage industry and beyond.
The US Supreme Court struck down the Trump administration’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose global tariffs, ruling 6–3 that the move exceeded presidential authority on February 20.
The decision is expected to have far-reaching effects on international trade and the fluctuating tariffs that have impacted a wide range of food and beverage products.
US imposes antidumping and countervailing duties on HECs from Brazil, China, India and Vietnam
A recent ruling could have dramatic implications on pricing, supply chains and the overall competitive landscape of Hard Empty Capsules (HEC).
The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) and U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) issued a final affirmative determination that found that HEC imports from Brazil, China, India and Vietnam were sold in the United States at less than fair market value.
The findings stated that imports from these countries are harming the U.S. capsule industry by undercutting domestic producers, with the investigation revealing significant dumping margins.
China approves HMO 3’-SL for use in infant formula
The Chinese authorities have approved 3’-sialyllactose (3’-SL) – a human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) – for use in infant formula for the first time.
China’s National Health Commission permitted the use of 3’-SL in a variety of products other than infant formula, including complementary food for toddlers.
In total, the Chinese authorities have approved three HMOs for use in infant formula, including 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT).
FDA eases ‘no artificial colors’ labeling rules, paves way for natural color adoption
The FDA is changing how food manufacturers can make “no artificial colors” claims, allowing greater flexibility for products containing naturally derived color additives.
However, some industry and advocacy observers warn the guidance is vague, particularly around the undefined category of “petroleum-based dyes,” leaving manufacturers uncertain about compliance and potential legal risk.
Under the new guidance, companies can use voluntary labeling statements on products that contain naturally derived colors, as long as petroleum-based synthetic dyes, such as Red No. 40 and Yellow No.6, among others, are not present.
South Korea re-evaluating turmeric, green coffee bean due to adverse reports
South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) is re-evaluating the safety and functionality of turmeric extract and eight other functional ingredients.
The other ingredients are the probiotic Lactobacillus gasseri BNR17, mastic gum, boswellia extract, Spanish licorice extract, green coffee bean extract, lemon balm extract, hyaluronic acid and Rhodiola rosea extract.
Turmeric extract, green coffee bean extract and lemon balm extract mixed powder were selected due to adverse events, while the others were chosen as part of a routine re-evaluation process.
