Malaysia Amends Food Regulations to Tighten Trans Fat Claims, Introduce Potassium and TRF Function Claims, and Update Pesticide MRLs

Malaysia has published the Food (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026 [P.U. (A) 221/2026], introducing significant amendments to the Food Regulations 1985.A key amendment revises the conditions for the use of "Trans Fatty Acids Free" claims.

1.Under the updated Fifth A Schedule, edible fats and edible oils may only bear the claim if trans fatty acid content does not exceed 0.5 g per 100 g (solids) or 0.5 g per 100 ml (liquids). For all other food products, the threshold has been tightened to 0.1 g per 100 g (solids) or 0.1 g per 100 ml (liquids).
2.The amendment also replaces Table III of the Fifth A Schedule and expands the list of permitted nutrient function claims. New claims have been introduced for potassium and tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF).
3.Potassium-containing products meeting specified nutrient levels may claim that potassium may help maintain normal blood pressure, subject to mandatory advisory statements for individuals taking hypertension medication, pregnant women, and kidney patients.
4.Products containing TRF may now carry claims relating to antioxidant activity, reduction of oxidative stress, and support of cognitive function, provided the prescribed conditions are satisfied.

In addition, Malaysia has revised the Sixteenth Schedule relating to pesticide maximum residue limits (MRLs). The amendment introduces new MRLs for several pesticide-food combinations, including cyantraniliprole in chilli, kale, long beans, and mustard; cymoxanil in tomato; and sulfoxaflor in milled rice, chilli, watermelon, and tomato. Existing MRLs have also been updated for pesticides including dinotefuran, epoxiconazole, fipronil, and trifloxystrobin, among others. New residue limits have also been established for curry leaves and various fruits and vegetables.

The amendments are intended to strengthen consumer information, align nutrition claims with current scientific evidence, and enhance food safety controls through updated pesticide residue standards. Food manufacturers, importers, and distributors should review product formulations, labelling, and compliance documentation ahead of the implementation date.