| Definition / concept | No legal definition. Generally understood as No artificial, No preservatives, and Simple ingredients | No legal definition. Based on the Food Information Regulation (FIR), emphasizing intuitive labeling | No legal definition. Market centered on “No additives” and “naturally derived” concepts | No legal definition. The term “No additives” is conditionally permitted under the Food Labeling Standards |
| Regulation / policy | CFR Title 21 and A Food Labeling Guide revisions encourage clear indication of artificial colors, sweeteners, and preservatives | FIR revision strengthens labeling of ingredient origins and additive use; initiative to reduce E-numbers | Guidelines for “No additive” labeling in operation; certification mainly for traditional fermented foods | Introduction of “Green Food Certification” (low-impact, eco-friendly standards) and “Smart Food QR” system |
| Market characteristics | Led by major corporations such as General Mills, Kellogg’s, and Nestlé; large-scale clean label product lines launched | Demand for additive-free and natural ingredient products growing rapidly, especially in France, Germany, and the UK | Expansion of additive-free products based on fermented foods (soy sauce, miso, etc.) | Early-stage market led by large companies such as CJ CheilJedang, Pulmuone, and Orion |
| Consumer perception | Preference for “simple ingredient labels”; emphasis on safety and health image | Strong demand for clear ingredient information; strong aversion to E-numbers | “No additives” associated with health and premium quality | Increasing interest in ingredient transparency; preference for additive-free ready meals and snacks, expanding among MZ generation |
| Limitations / challenges | Lack of legal definition → reliance on company-driven marketing | Inconsistent regulations among member states; need for EU-wide harmonization | Insufficient international standardization → trade barriers in export markets | Ambiguity in the regulation of “No additives” terminology; limited response to global certification standards |
| Future tasks | Need to establish legal framework beyond voluntary standards | Establishment of unified international standards (linked to CODEX) | Regulatory alignment for global market competitiveness | Integration with international standards, IP-based technology development, and institutional framework establishment |