Understanding Vietnam’s Food Safety Law and Its Recent Context

Vietnam’s Food Safety Law (Law No. 55/2010/QH12), enacted in 2010, serves as the cornerstone of the country’s regulatory framework for ensuring food safety. It establishes comprehensive guidelines for food production, processing, distribution, and consumption, emphasizing the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders in the food supply chain. The law aims to protect public health, enhance consumer trust, and support the sustainable development of Vietnam’s food industry. Decree No. 15/2018/NĐ-CP, issued in 2018, further streamlined the implementation of the Food Safety Law. It introduced significant reforms, including self-declaration of food products, clearer procedures for obtaining food safety certifications, and improved import-export food inspection mechanisms. These measures reduced administrative burdens for businesses while enhancing food safety compliance.

Food Safety Context in Vietnam 5 Years Ago

Vietnam faced critical challenges and opportunities in Food Safety:
Rising consumer Awareness: Consumers began demanding safer and higher quality food products due to increasing media coverage of foodborne illnesses and adulteration scandals. Export market Pressures: Vietnam’s growing role as a global food exporter necessitated compliance with international food safety standards, including HACCP, ISO 22000, and other certifications Complex Domestic Landscape: The fragmented nature of food production, dominated by small-scale farmers and processors, made enforcing uniform, safety standards difficult. Government Initiatives: Authorities intensified food safety inspections and crackdowns on violations while encouraging businesses to adopt modern safety practices, including using Viet GAP agricultural products. Integration with Global standards: As Vietnam participated in free trade agreements (FTAs), aligning local regulations with global food safety requirements became a priority to facilitate trade and boost competitiveness.

These efforts have significantly reshaped Vietnam’s food safety landscape, setting the stage for continued progress in meeting both domestic and international food safety expectations.

FAST Consulting “Your Partner in Food Safety Compliance”

Navigating Vietnam’s complex food safety regulations can be challenging for businesses, but FAST Consulting is here to help. Our expertise ensures that your operations align with the Food Safety Law (Law No. 55/2010/QH12) and its implementing decrees, such as Decree No. 15/2018/NĐ-CP. By partnering with us, you can streamline compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance your reputation in the market. We provide services:

Product Self-Declaration Service

  • Assist business in preparing and submitting accurate product self-declaration documents as required by Decree 15/2018 / NĐ-CP.
  • Guideline product labeling and packaging to meet government regulations.

Food Safety & Hygiene Certification

  • Support businesses in obtaining certificates of eligibility for food safety, a critical requirement under the law.
  • Conducting gap analyses and preparing businesses for certification audits.

Regulatory Compliance Audits

  • Perform comprehensive audits to identify non-compliance areas in your food production and supply chain processes.
  • Provide actionable recommendations to rectify gaps and ensure full compliance with government standards

Training and Capacity Building

Offer customized training programs on food safety regulations and best practices, empowering your team to maintain compliance. Topics include HACCP, ISO 22000, labeling laws, and hygiene protocols.

Import-Export Compliance Support

  • Guide businesses through food safety requirements for imported and exported goods, ensuring smooth customs clearance and compliance with international standards.
  • Help businesses align with the Ministry of Health’s inspection requirements and standards for exports to key markets like the U.S. and EU

Risk Management and Incident Response

  • Develop customized risk management strategies to address potential food safety hazards.
  • Provide support during food safety incidents, including recall management and communication with regulatory bodies.

Why Choose FAST Consulting

  • Deep Expertise: With years of experience in the food and beverage industry, we understand the nuances of Vietnam’s regulatory landscape.
  • Tailored Solutions: We offer customized services to address your business’s unique challenges and requirements.
  • Efficient Processes: Our streamlined approach minimizes delays and reduces administrative burdens, helping you achieve compliance quickly and effectively.
  • Sustainable Compliance: We go beyond paperwork, empowering your team with the knowledge and systems needed for long-term adherence to food safety standards.

Let FAST Consulting be your trusted partner in navigating Vietnam’s food safety regulations. Together, we can build a foundation of compliance, trust, and growth for your business.