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Q&A on Japanese Government Health Protections

July 27, 2011

What is the Government of Japan doing to ensure the safety of the food supply in Japan?

Since March 11, 2011, U.S. government experts have been meeting regularly with Japanese experts to review what is known about the Japanese food safety system. The review has included an analysis of the Japanese government's ability to protect the general food supply. On the basis of their review, U.S. government experts have concluded that the government of Japan has the resources and technical capability to find contaminated food and beverages, take appropriate steps to protect consumers, and ensure the safety of the food and water supply.

The Government of Japan has been testing food for radioactive contamination since March 11, 2011. Whenever food is found to be contaminated above guidance levels, Japanese authorities have immediately blocked the distribution of foods from affected areas. Affected agricultural products are subject to continuous monitoring and, according to Japanese guidelines, may only be allowed back onto the market after passing three consecutive tests.

U.S. citizens should pay close attention to reports from Japan's food safety authorities about foods that may be contaminated by the release of radioactive material from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facility since March. U.S. citizens should follow any instructions provided by these authorities. U.S. government officials and subject matter experts will also continue to monitor food safety reports. To learn more about radiation, including radioactive cesium and how it can affect human health, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Radiation website.

How do Japanese standards for food safety compare to U.S. and international standards?

Japan's established standards for radioactive contamination in food are based on the same target doses for protection as those used by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Japan's approach is consistent with international norms, uses up-to-date risk data, and applies conservative (i.e., protective) assumptions. These standards are designed to protect the health of even the most vulnerable people, including young children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

What is the Government of Japan doing to protect the safety of seafood?

Most fishing in Fukushima prefecture has been suspended, and no fishing vessels are allowed within 20 km of the Fukushima reactors because of Japanese Coast Guard restrictions. Japanese authorities monitor seafood as it is landed by fishing vessels. In addition, they are collecting comprehensive samples of organic material in three layers of the ocean (surface, middle, and deep) in order to assess any specific impact on species that live in each habitat. At least once a week, two to three species are caught in each layer. Government officials collect the samples at the docks from commercial fishermen. The government has also created a plan whereby migratory fish will be targeted during their season. Government research vessels will conduct sampling before commercial fishing is allowed.

Where can I get more information?

Government of Japan Sources (in English):

U.S. Government Sources: