Oops! Japan #43 — Allergen Alert Why Reading Food Labels in Japan Might Not Be Enough

 Oops! Japan #43 — Allergen Alert

Why Reading Food Labels in Japan Might Not Be Enough

Japan has strict food labeling laws — but only for seven specific allergens: eggs, milk, wheat, buckwheat, peanuts, shrimp, and crab. These must be clearly indicated on packaging.

However, for all other allergens — such as soy, sesame, shellfish (other than shrimp/crab), or tree nuts — labeling is voluntary. This means your allergen might not be listed at all.

What’s more, most labels are written only in Japanese, often using kanji that even Japanese children find difficult. English translations are rare, especially on snacks or regional foods.

So if you have allergies, especially to things not on Japan’s top 7 list:

• Use a translation app to scan the ingredient list.

• Carry a card with your allergens written in Japanese.

• When in doubt, avoid unfamiliar processed foods.

Also, don’t assume that “free from” trends are widespread — they’re not. Japan’s approach to food labeling is still catching up to global standards.

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補足（日本語）

日本の食品表示は7品目（卵・乳・小麦・そば・落花生・えび・かに）については義務表示ですが、それ以外のアレルゲン（ナッツ、大豆、ごまなど）は任意表示です。また、表記はほとんどが日本語で英語は期待できません。したがって、アレルギーを持つ人にとっては、予想外に危険な買い物になる可能性もあります。

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