🎃 MFDS to Strengthen Import Inspections on Candies and Snacks Ahead of Halloween
By: Customs Broker Ga-eun Lee, JungRyul Customs Office
Date: October 2025
As with May, October has turned out to be another busy month for importers and distributors.
Following the Chuseok holiday, the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) issued a new notice regarding the intensified inspection of imported confectionery products ahead of Halloween.
With Halloween Day approaching on October 31, the consumption of imported candies, chocolates, and snacks is expected to rise sharply.
Accordingly, the MFDS announced that it will reinforce import inspections from October 13 to 17, focusing on these high-demand items at the customs clearance stage.
Source: MFDS official announcement (Oct. 2025)
📋 Inspection Targets and Key Details
This is a preemptive, planned inspection aimed at ensuring the safety of imported confectionery products that see a sharp increase in demand during the Halloween season.
Inspection items and focus points by product category are as follows:
| Category | Key Inspection Items | Main Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Candies | Non-permitted synthetic dyes, preservatives, compression strength (cup-type jelly) | Prevent excessive coloring, texture-related accidents, and safety issues |
| Chocolates | General bacteria count | Check for microbial contamination during manufacturing and distribution |
| Snacks | Acid value (for fried or oil-treated foods), bacteria count, sulfur dioxide, mycotoxins (Zearalenone, Total Aflatoxin) | Manage rancidity and mycotoxin-related health risks |
📌 Each manufacturer’s products will undergo at least one focused inspection during this period.
🚫 Handling of Non-Compliant Products and Follow-Up Measures
If a product is found non-compliant, it will be immediately returned or discarded before entering domestic distribution.
Furthermore, if the same product is imported again, it will be designated for five consecutive detailed inspections, resulting in stricter clearance procedures.
🧾 Future Plans by MFDS
The MFDS stated that it will continue strengthening preemptive customs inspections and post-management systems for
seasonally popular products, such as those that see increased consumption during holiday or event periods (e.g., Chuseok, Lunar New Year, Halloween).
“The busier the season, the more crucial it becomes to maintain proper documentation, labeling, and hygiene management.”
Importers are strongly advised to review product specifications, ingredient details, and manufacturing dates in advance
to minimize the risk of customs delays or rejections during these intensified inspections.
For Further Import & Export Inquiries
Please contact us via KakaoTalk or Email below.
We will respond promptly, accurately, and with care.
📧 Email: jrcus@jrcus.co.kr
📞 Tel: 02-595-4521
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