When it comes to Japanese products, quality is often the first thing that comes to mind. Indeed, Japanese products must adhere to extremely strict standards before they can be brought to the market. In this article, JAVICO provides you with information about the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS).
What are the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS)?
The Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS) are the national standards established by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. These standards apply to the fields of food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
The Japanese Agricultural Standards are used in the industries of food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. (Photo from the Internet)
The JAS system is internationally accepted and aligns with the internationally trusted ISO standards. Meeting the JAS means that the product complies not only with Japanese standards but also with international standards.
The types of standards in the JAS system
The JAS system includes various standards, specifically as follows:
Products
- Standards for quality and specifications (e.g., specific ingredients, components, etc.).
- Standards for production and distribution processes.
Businesses
- Standards for product handling methods (e.g., specific control/management for cultivation, rearing, quality, hygiene, sanitation, storage, delivery, cooking, supply, etc.).
- Standards for people’s skills and capabilities.
- Standards for business management methods (e.g., labor management, corporate social responsibility, etc.).
The JAS system includes many standards related to products, production, business management, etc. (Photo from the Internet)
Product testing methods
- Standards for testing methods for food ingredients, DNA, etc.
Terminology
- Definitions of terms used in the JAS system related to standards for products, businesses, and product testing methods.
The JAS logo and symbol
The JAS system includes different logos and symbols, including:
General JAS logo
The General JAS logo is applied to foods and forestry products whose quality, ingredients, specifications, etc. comply with the JAS for quality.
Organic JAS logo
The Organic JAS logo is applied to agricultural products and processed foods that comply with the Organic JAS. Products without this logo cannot be labeled as “organic”.
Specific JAS Logo
The Specific JAS logo is applied to foods that meet the JAS for products produced by special methods, often used for products produced by traditional Japanese methods or value-added products.
This logo features a combination of Mount Fuji and the sun, two symbolic images of Japan.
Testing Method JAS Symbol
The Testing Method JAS symbol is applied to test reports that use testing methods recognized by the JAS system.
Hopefully, the above information has helped you better understand the JAS system and the meanings behind its logos and symbols.
