Bei Jing Shang Bao·2026-01-06 13:51Core Viewpoint - The National Market Supervision Administration has publicly solicited opinions on the "Draft Review Guidelines for Dairy Product Production Licenses," which aims to update the existing guidelines to better align with the evolving structure of the dairy product industry and facilitate technological breakthroughs and innovation among small enterprises [3]. Group 1: Product Category Expansion - The draft guidelines expand the product categories from three to eleven, including liquid milk, fermented milk, milk powder, concentrated dairy products, dairy fat products, cheese and its products, whey and its products, specialty livestock dairy products, local specialty dairy products, infant formula base powder, and other dairy products [4]. - This adjustment aims to enhance the operational feasibility of the guidelines by clearly defining and detailing the licensing categories and product specifics [4]. Group 2: Production Control Enhancements - The draft specifies requirements for factory site selection and environmental conditions, adjusting cleanliness standards based on product processing characteristics, and adding hygiene and access control requirements for clean work areas [5]. - It also revises equipment and process requirements, detailing standard equipment for dairy production and introducing specific technical requirements for water supply and drainage facilities [5]. Group 3: Personnel Management Improvements - The draft introduces requirements for food safety management personnel, including qualifications for the enterprise leader, food safety director, and food safety staff, mandating specialized education and relevant work experience [6]. - It also specifies educational qualifications for laboratory personnel and emphasizes regular training and assessment for staff [6]. Group 4: Support for Small and Medium Enterprises - The draft guidelines are seen as timely in response to the evolving dairy product structure in China, which is shifting from quantity to quality, with a growing focus on high-value and functional products [8]. - Analysts suggest that while the new standards may increase management costs for some companies, they also provide opportunities for small enterprises to accelerate technological innovation and gain a competitive edge in niche markets [8].