AUG 11, 2015

NR # 3923

Labeling of food products pushed

Rep. Rolando G. Andaya Jr. (1st District, Camarines Sur) has filed a bill directing
manufacturers to put proper labeling on their products to promote awareness on the
importance of a balanced diet.
House Bill 5719 mandates that all commodities should bear a label specifying the
business address of the manufacturer as well as the nutritional content of the product.
Andaya said the label should contain the number of servings and calories, vitamins,
minerals, fat, saturated fat, cholesterol sodium, carbohydrates, sugar, dietary fiber, protein,
and other nutrients.
The proposed Philippines Nutrition Labeling Act will provide the consumers with
enough information pertaining to their food intake in order to help them make dietary
decisions that can improve their health, Andaya said.
Andaya said the bill would also provide the consumers with information that can
assist them to better understand the nutritional value of food products and get ample
warning on the presence of allergens.
The bill mandates the concerned government agencies to confiscate the consumer
products proven to be hazardous to health and safety of the people, according to Andaya.
Under the bill, if allergens are present, the food products shall be labeled with
appropriate warnings in bold forms.
No commodity shall be distributed unless it conforms to the regulations of the
Bureau of Food and Drug (BFD).
The bill will not cover those who are engaged in wholesale and retail distribution of
commodities.
Violators face a fine ranging from P10,000 to P300,000 depending on the gravity of
the offense. (30) mrs