We have published Label News "August 1, 2026 Issue (No. 1369)."
■ Editorial Column | How to Read This Issue
In the August 1st issue, we featured the "digitization of food labeling" that the Consumer Affairs Agency is currently considering. This system allows consumers to scan a two-dimensional code on container packaging, including labels, with their smartphones to digitally access some mandatory labeling items and related information.
Food labeling has seen an increase in the number of items required to be displayed, driven by growing consumer interest in safety and health. However, a challenge arises when all information is printed on limited container packaging: the text becomes smaller, making it difficult for consumers to recognize the information. The introduction of digital labeling is expected to enable the provision of information tailored to consumer needs, such as enlarging text, translating into foreign languages, notifying allergy information, and introducing cooking methods through videos.
For businesses, benefits are anticipated, including reduced packaging waste and product recalls due to label changes, and lower costs and environmental impact by reducing print volume. On the other hand, challenges include database maintenance and management, system implementation costs, and reliance on communication environments. Depending on the labeling items introduced, there is a possibility that the display area and print volume on labels may decrease, requiring the label and packaging industry to closely monitor future discussions.
This paper provides a detailed explanation of the merits and demerits for both consumers and businesses, along with a table.
Other Main News
1. 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake
"Resumption progresses with lifeline restoration; areas hit by magnitude 7 earthquake to restart, union also provides support."
2. JFILP x Noroshi "Speaker Profiles"
"Creating Value with Collective Intelligence: Questioning the 'Meaning of People Gathering' in the AI Era"
3. PubteX
"Expansion of RF Tag Installation Targets: Phased Implementation with Three Publishing Companies"
Ask Manufacturers and Suppliers: Special Summer Release
Introducing Tsujikawa, Toyo Ink, and Toray's Technology and Product Strategies
4. "interpack 2026" Report
Latest global packaging technology trends including PPWR, environmental initiatives, AI, automation, and labor saving
5. Label Forum Japan 2026
"All 21 Conference Sessions Announced"
Full program for the two-day event featuring 22 key figures from Japan and abroad
6. Implementation Report
Manseisha Printing and Toyo Label's Equipment Introduction and Production System Reform
7. Paper Summit Japan 2026
"Event to 'Feel and Play with Paper' a Success" — Introducing new possibilities for paper and printing.
