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In Hong Kong, what compliance requirements should be considered when labelling health food products?

A complete explanation of the regulatory basis, Drew Tang’s recommendations and risk alerts. The original material dates from 2025; read it alongside the latest official requirements.

Original guide, 2025 edition: These FAQs are provided for topic-based reference and have not all been individually checked against current rules. Please confirm fees, personnel, renewal, changes and product requirements against the professional in-depth guide for the relevant licence type and the official requirements in force at the time.

Drug Office, Department of Health Chinese Medicines Board

Q494 · Category J: Cross-border pharmaceuticals and industry practice (Q451-Q500)
Health food labels in Hong Kong must comply with the requirements of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) and the Food Safety Ordinance (Cap. 612). Labels must clearly state the product name, ingredients, net weight, manufacturer and importer information, storage conditions and expiry date. They must not contain medical claims relating to the treatment, diagnosis or prevention of disease. Where Chinese herbal medicine ingredients are involved, their source and quantity should also be stated. Labels should be in Chinese and English to ensure that consumers understand them. Properly compliant labelling not only meets legal requirements but also enhances consumer confidence.

📘 Regulatory basis

Section 4 of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362); section 18 of the Food Safety Ordinance (Cap. 612)

📗 Drew Tang's recommendations

We recommend commissioning a professional organisation to review labels, avoiding inappropriate use of medical terminology and ensuring that label content is detailed and compliant, thereby reducing the risk of complaints or enforcement action.

📕 Risk notice

Labelling violations may result in products being removed from sale, fines or even legal proceedings, damaging the brand’s reputation.

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