In general, "electrolyzed water" refers to the aqueous solution obtained after electrolytic treatment of tap water, etc. using direct current.

In particular, "electrolytically-generated functional water" is the aqueous solutions which acquired reproducible and useful functions by electrolysis, and for which reliable scientific evidences regarding the electrolytic treatment and the functions of resulting water have been shown.

Various types of electrolyzed water can be generated depending on the electrolysis conditions. They can be roughly classified into "one for hygienic management" and "the other for drinking purpose" represented by alkaline ionized water.

Alkaline ionized water refers to water generated from drinkable water (potable water conforming to the directives of the tap water quality standards) by electrolysis using water electrolyzer for home-use called "alkaline ionized water apparatus". Alkaline ionized water meets the tap water standards except for pH range. Alkaline ionized water apparatus is classified as the appliance/device Type 83 "Medical substance generating apparatus" under the directives of the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law.

There are currently more than 20 manufacturers of alkaline ionized water apparatus. The apparatus is being widely distributed in homes, since the total annual production quantity of the entire industry is reported as approximately 300,000 units in recent years, according to the medical industry production movement statistics (the Health Policy Bureau of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare).

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