How to Comply with Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines for MSMEs

If you sell or import packaged food in the Philippines, your label isn’t just part of the design—it’s a legal requirement. The Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines outline exactly what information must appear on your packaging to protect consumers and ensure fair trade.

Fail to comply, and you risk fines, product recalls, or even having your goods barred from sale. Follow the rules, and your label becomes a powerful tool for transparency and trust.

Why Mandatory Food Labeling Standards Matter

Food labeling rules are designed to protect both consumers and businesses. They ensure that products are safe, accurately represented, and easy to understand for MSMEs. Here’s why these standards are essential:

1. Prepackaged Food Dominates the Market

Most of the food products sold today are prepackaged, meaning customers cannot see or inspect the actual contents. Labels become the primary source of information about the product, including its ingredients, nutritional value, and expiry date. Without clear labeling, consumers would be left guessing about what they are buying and eating.

2. Product Variety is Growing

The food industry now offers an expanding range of products, from vegan alternatives to fortified drinks and gluten-free snacks. Each category comes with unique nutritional profiles and potential allergens that must be identified. Mandatory labeling ensures that these products are distinguished adequately so consumers can make informed choices.

3. Consumers Are More Health-Conscious

Shoppers today are more mindful about what they eat, often checking labels for sugar, fat, sodium, and allergen content. Accurate labeling allows them to manage their diets and avoid ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or health issues. This empowers customers to choose products that match their health goals and lifestyle.

4. Transparency is Now a Selling Point

Modern consumers value honesty and clarity when it comes to food ingredients. Labels that disclose GMOs, additives, and artificial ingredients help build trust and brand loyalty. Businesses that are upfront about their product contents often enjoy a competitive edge in the market.

5. False Claims Can Harm Brands

Misleading terms like “natural” or “light” may attract buyers in the short term, but can lead to complaints and legal issues if they are not accurate. Once trust is broken, it can be challenging for a brand to recover its reputation. Following labeling standards helps prevent costly disputes and safeguards brand credibility.

The Legal Framework for Food Labeling in the Philippines

The Department of Health (DOH), through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces labeling compliance.

Key references include:

• Republic Act No. 3720 – Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This is the cornerstone law governing food safety and labeling in the Philippines. It outlines the legal requirement for food products to be appropriately identified and labeled in a way that is not misleading to consumers. The law also authorizes the FDA to inspect, regulate, and, if necessary, seize products that fail to meet labeling requirements.

• Administrative Order No. 2014-0030 – Revised Rules and Regulations on the Labeling of Prepackaged Food Products. This administrative order provides the detailed guidelines that manufacturers, repackers, importers, and distributors must follow when labeling their food products. It specifies exactly what information should appear on a label, where it should be placed, how it should be printed, and even the required formats for specific details such as expiry dates and nutrition facts.

• Codex Alimentarius Standards – International Food Labeling Guidelines. A collection of internationally recognized food standards, codes of practice, and guidelines developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Philippines adopts these standards to align local regulations with global best practices, ensuring that products meet internationally accepted safety and labeling benchmarks.

Parts of a Label: Two Main Sections of a Compliant Food Label

A compliant food label is divided into two key sections: the Principal Display Panel (PDP), which captures consumer attention and shows essential details upfront, and the Information Panel (IP), which provides detailed product facts, ingredients, and manufacturer information for transparency and compliance.

1. Principal Display Panel (PDP)

The Principal Display Panel is the part of your packaging that consumers see first when your product is on the shelf. It’s the “face” of your product, designed to convey what it is and encourage purchase quickly. It must clearly show:

• Product Name – Accurate, descriptive, and easy to read, so customers know exactly what they are buying.
• Net Content Declaration – The amount of product inside, expressed in the correct units (grams, milliliters, or pieces) depending on the product type.

This section should also be visually appealing, incorporating branding elements such as logos, color schemes, and imagery that align with your brand identity, while also complying with size, font, and visibility regulations set by authorities.

2. Information Panel

The Information Panel is typically located immediately to the right of the Principal Display Panel (PDP) when the product is facing the consumer. This section provides essential details that help buyers make informed choices and ensure compliance with food labeling regulations.

It must include:

• Brand or Trade Name – Identifies the product’s branding for recognition and authenticity.
  
• Nutrition Facts – A standardized table showing calories, macronutrients, and key vitamins or minerals, presented in the required format.
  
• Name and Address of Manufacturer – Ensures traceability and consumer access to the company for inquiries or feedback.
  
• Country of Origin – Indicates where the product was manufactured or processed, necessary for transparency and trade compliance.
  
• List of Ingredients – All components listed in descending order by weight, including allergens and additives.
  
• Open Date Marking – Such as “Best Before” or “Use By” dates, to guide freshness and consumption safety.
  
• Batch or Lot Coding – For tracking production batches in case of recalls or quality checks

It may also include optional elements such as:

• Short History or Trivia about the Manufacturer or Product – Adds brand personality and consumer engagement.
  
• Bar Code – Useful for retail scanning and inventory management.

How to Compute the Principal Display Panel (PDP)

Knowing how to compute the Principal Display Panel (PDP) area is essential for food label compliance. The PDP size determines the minimum space for key details like the product name and net content declaration. The computation depends on the shape of your packaging—whether it’s a box, bottle, can, or irregular container.

1. For Rectangular or Box-Shaped Packages

• Formula: PDP Area = Height × Width
• Example: If a package front is 8 inches high and 6 inches wide:
  8 in × 6 in = 48 square inches

2. For Cylindrical or Round Containers

• The PDP is 40% of the product’s height × circumference.
• Formula: PDP Area = Height × (Circumference × 0.40)
• Example: If the container height is 10 inches and the circumference is 8 inches:
  40% of circumference: 8 in × 0.40 = 3.2 in
  Multiply by height: 3.2 in × 10 in = 32 square inches

3. For Odd-Shaped Containers

• If the container is tapered, curved, or irregular, measure the largest displayable surface visible to the consumer.
• Apply the same height × width calculation for that visible area.

Quick PDP Reference Table (Based on Shape)

Shape	Formula	Example Calculation
Rectangular box/carton	Height × Width	8 in × 6 in = 48 sq. in
Cylindrical can/bottle	Height × (Circumference × 0.40)	10 in × (8 in × 0.40) = 32 sq. in
Irregular shape	Largest flat or curved visible area (height × width)	Measure the display surface directly

The computed PDP area helps you determine the minimum font size and required placement for information like the net content, which must be easily readable

11 Mandatory Food Labeling Requirements

Under the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines, every packaged food must include:

1. Product Name / Name of Food

Under the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines, the product name—also called the name of the food—must be clear, accurate, and specific so that consumers immediately understand what the product is. This requirement helps prevent misleading labels and ensures transparency in the marketplace.

• Clarity: The name must be easy to read and free of vague or confusing terms.
  
• Specificity: It should describe the product in a way that distinguishes it from similar items. For example:
  
  • “Tuna in Brine” – specifies the type of liquid medium used.
  • “Tuna” – too broad and leaves out essential details.
    
• Accuracy: The name must reflect the actual content and processing of the product (e.g., “Frozen Mango Slices” instead of just “Mango”).
  
• Regulatory Compliance: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that the product name be in English or Filipino, and it must not include misleading health or nutritional claims unless officially approved.

This is often placed prominently on the Principal Display Panel (PDP) so shoppers can quickly identify the product without needing to turn the package.

2. Brand Name/Trademark 

The brand name or trademark is the distinctive name, word, or symbol used to identify and market your product. Under the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines, it should be:

• Unique: It must stand out from competitors and avoid copying or imitating existing registered brands. This uniqueness helps build brand identity and consumer loyalty.
  
• Registered: To ensure legal protection, the brand name or trademark must be officially registered with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL). Registration safeguards your product from infringement and gives you the exclusive right to use that name or logo in commerce.
  
• Consistent on All Packaging: The same brand name or logo should appear consistently across all product variations and packaging sizes to strengthen recognition.
  
• Non-Misleading: The name must not imply qualities or benefits that the product cannot deliver. For example, a beverage called “Natural Fresh Juice” must truly contain natural juice and not artificial flavors.
  
• Visible and Readable: Typically placed on the Principal Display Panel (PDP), the brand name should use a font size, style, and color contrast that make it easy to spot on store shelves.

In short, the brand name is not just a marketing tool—it’s a legal asset and an essential element for both compliance and consumer trust.

3. Complete List of Ingredients

Every packaged food in the Philippines must include a complete and accurate list of all ingredients used in its preparation. This is required under the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards to ensure transparency and help consumers make informed choices—especially those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

• Descending Order by Weight: Ingredients must be listed starting with the one that weighs the most in the finished product, followed by those in smaller quantities. For example, in a loaf of bread, you might see: “Wheat Flour, Water, Sugar, Yeast, Salt…”
  
• Inclusion of Additives and Flavors: All additives—such as preservatives, colorings, sweeteners, and flavor enhancers—must be included in the list. This also applies to natural and artificial flavors, along with their common or internationally recognized names.
  
• Allergen Declaration: If an ingredient contains allergens like peanuts, soy, milk, eggs, shellfish, tree nuts, or gluten, this must be clearly stated either in parentheses within the ingredient list or in a separate “Contains” statement.
  
• Compound Ingredients: If an ingredient itself is a mixture (e.g., chocolate chips), the sub-ingredients should be listed in parentheses unless exempted by regulations. Example: “Chocolate Chips (Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Mass, Soy Lecithin).”
  
• Common Names: Ingredient names should use everyday, widely understood terms rather than brand-specific or technical jargon. For example, use “Sugar” instead of “Sucrose,” unless a technical name is required.

This list is typically placed on the Information Panel so consumers can easily read it alongside other nutritional and manufacturing details.

4. Net Contents and Drained Weight

The net contents statement tells consumers exactly how much product is inside the package, while the drained weight applies to foods packed in a liquid medium (e.g., water, brine, syrup, or oil). This requirement ensures that buyers know the actual edible quantity, not just the total weight including liquid.

• Metric Units Only: In the Philippines, quantities must be expressed in the metric system (grams, kilograms, milliliters, or liters). Using imperial units (e.g., ounces, pounds) is not compliant unless provided as supplementary information.
  
• Net Contents:
  • Refers to the total amount of the product, including any liquid medium, unless the drained weight is also required.
  • Example for solid items: “Net Wt. 500 g”
  • Example for liquids: “Net Vol. 1 L”
    
• Drained Weight:
  • Required for products where the liquid is not meant to be consumed as part of the main serving (e.g., canned tuna, fruit cocktail in syrup).
  • Shown in addition to the net contents.
  • Example: “Net Wt. 185 g, Drained Wt. 150 g”
    
• Multi-Packs:
  • Both the total net content and the individual pack size must be listed.
  • Example: “Net Wt. 1.2 kg (12 x 100 g packs)”
    
• Placement: Usually found on the Principal Display Panel (PDP), so it’s immediately visible without having to turn the package.
  
• Font and Size: Must be clear, proportional to the packaging size, and easy to read, following FDA minimum font height rules.

This element is crucial for consumer protection—preventing misleading impressions from oversized packaging—and for fair trade, as it allows buyers to compare value across brands.

5. Manufacturer, Repacker, Importer, & Distributor Details 

Food labels in the Philippines must clearly state the full name, address, and country of origin of the company responsible for making, repacking, importing, or distributing the product. This is required to ensure traceability, accountability, and consumer confidence.

• Full Company Name: The legal name of the entity must be shown exactly as it appears in its business registration. Abbreviations or shortened versions are not allowed unless officially registered.
  
• Complete Address: Include the street, barangay, city/municipality, and province. A P.O. Box is not sufficient. The address should be specific enough to identify the physical location of the company’s operations.
  
• Country of Origin: Indicate where the product was manufactured or processed. This is especially important for imported goods, where both the manufacturing country and the local importer must be listed.
  • Example for an imported item:
    Manufactured by: ABC Foods Ltd., Bangkok, Thailand
    Imported by: XYZ Trading Corp., Quezon City, Philippines
    
• Multiple Roles: If the same company serves more than one role (e.g., manufacturer and distributor), both functions should be stated.
  
• Repacked Products: For goods that are repacked locally, indicate the repacker’s details along with the origin of the bulk product. Example: Repacked by DEF Enterprises, Davao City, Philippines. Product of Malaysia.
  
• Placement: Typically found on the Information Panel, near the ingredient list or nutrition facts, so it’s easy for consumers and regulators to locate.

This requirement ensures that, in the event of a product recall, complaint, or safety concern, the responsible party can be contacted quickly and directly.

6. Lot Identification

Lot identification, often referred to as a batch code, is a unique combination of numbers, letters, or symbols printed on food packaging to identify a specific production run. This code is required under the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines to ensure traceability—the ability to track and isolate products in case of recalls, quality issues, or safety concerns.

Enables manufacturers, distributors, and regulatory agencies to pinpoint precisely when and where a product was produced. Helps in identifying other products that may have been made under similar conditions if a problem is found.

• Format – May include production date, factory code, line number, or a sequential batch number.
  • Example: Lot No. L2025A08 (could mean produced in 2025, batch A, on August 8).
  • The manufacturer determines the format, but it must be consistent and understandable for internal records.
    
• Placement – Usually printed or stamped on the package’s seal, back panel, or near the expiration date. Must remain legible throughout the product’s shelf life.
  
• Regulatory Requirement – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that the lot or batch code be present on all packaged foods. This is especially critical for perishable goods, baby food, and products with a high safety ris.
  
• Traceability Example: If a batch of peanut butter is found to be contaminated, the lot number allows only the affected products to be recalled—reducing waste, cost, and consumer panic.

In short, the lot identification code acts like a fingerprint for each batch, making it a vital part of food safety management.

7. Storage Conditions

Storage condition instructions tell consumers how to properly store the product to maintain its safety, quality, and shelf life. This is a mandatory element under the Philippines’ food labeling rules, especially for items that can spoil, degrade, or change texture if kept under the wrong conditions.

• Examples:
  • General Instructions: “Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.”
  • Refrigerated Products: “Keep refrigerated at 0–4°C.”
  • Frozen Goods: “Keep frozen at –18°C or below.”
  • Once Opened: “Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 days.”
    
• Placement – Usually printed on the Information Panel near the expiration date or lot number. For products requiring cold storage, the instruction is often highlighted or bolded to ensure visibility.
  
• Regulatory Consideration – The statement must reflect the actual storage requirement validated by the manufacturer’s stability tests. It should be written in clear, simple language so that all consumers can understand.

By following these instructions, consumers can ensure that the product remains safe and enjoyable until the end of its indicated shelf life.

8. Expiry Date / Use-by Date / Consume Before Date 

The Philippine FDA requires all prepackaged food products—local or imported—to display a precise date indicating when the product is no longer safe or of acceptable quality. Acceptable terms include Expiry Date, Use-by Date, or Consume Before Date.

• Format: Day (numeric), Month (spelled out), Year (numeric) — e.g., 09 September 2025.
  
• Expiry Date: For high-risk, perishable items.
  
• Best Before Date: For microbiologically stable products, indicating quality rather than safety.
  
• Placement: Must be printed clearly and legibly on the package, often near the lot number or storage instructions.

Therefore, when labeling products in the Philippines, it is recommended to use the term “Expiry Date” for clarity and compliance.

9. Food Allergen Information 

The Philippine FDA requires clear labeling of common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat (gluten), fish, shellfish, and tree nuts.

• Declare allergens in bold within the ingredient list or in a “Contains” statement (e.g., Contains: Milk, Soy, Wheat).
• Include cross-contamination warnings if made in facilities handling allergens.
• Use simple, standard terms so consumers can easily recognize allergens.
• Clear allergen labeling protects consumers and ensures compliance.

10. Directions for Use 

Provide clear instructions for products that require preparation, cooking, mixing, or special handling.

• Use step-by-step or concise directions (e.g., Shake well before drinking, Boil for 5 minutes, Consume within 3 days after opening).
• Place instructions where they are easy to see, usually on the Information Panel.
• Wording should be simple and easy for all consumers to understand.
  

Clear usage directions help ensure safety, proper preparation, and the best product experience.

11. Nutrition Facts / Nutrition Information

Under DOH Administrative Order No. 2014-0030, the Philippines FDA mandates a Nutrition Facts Panel for all prepackaged foods, providing transparency and supporting healthier consumer choices.

What Must Be Included in the Table:

• Serving Size (in standard household terms, weight, or volume) and Number of Servings per Pack
• Energy (calories)
• Macronutrients:
  
  • Total Carbohydrates (including Dietary Fiber and Total Sugars)
  • Total Fat (with breakdown of Saturated Fat, Trans Fat, Cholesterol)
  • Protein
    
• Sodium
• Micronutrients: Essential vitamins and minerals (e.g., Vitamin A, Iron, Iodine) if the product is fortified or nutrient claims are made

Optional / Conditional Additions:

• Additional nutrients like fatty acids or linolenic acid may be included if the product features relevant claims

How Values Are Expressed:

• Values must be presented per serving (in weight or household measure)
• Nutrient amounts may also be shown as a percentage of the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intakes (REI/RNI) based on the 2015 Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI), which is the current standard of the Food and Drug Administration.
  
  • Include the statement “Based on PDRI 2015.”
  • Ensure computations reference the appropriate demographic (e.g., male adults 19–29 years old, or children 6–9 if applicable.

It helps consumers compare products, manage dietary intake, and identify nutrition content claims. Must be placed on the Information Panel, formatted legibly, and follow FDA requirements for layout and font. 

Special Labeling Rules for Certain Food Products

Some foods in the Philippines require additional labeling details beyond the standard requirements.

1. Alcoholic Beverages

Must show alcohol content in % alc/vol or proof. May include health reminders for responsible drinking.

2. Irradiated Foods

Must state the facility name, irradiation date, and purpose (e.g., extend shelf life). Include the Radura symbol and the statement “Treated with ionizing radiation.”

3. Sweetened Beverages

Must name the sweetener used (e.g., sugar, stevia, aspartame). If artificial sweeteners are used (like aspartame), include required warnings (“Not for phenylketonurics”).

4. Language Requirement

Labels must be in English or Filipino. Imported products must have an English translation before being sold.

When Nutrition Labeling Is Not Required

Not all food products sold in the Philippines are required to display a full Nutrition Facts Panel. The FDA exempts certain items, either because nutrition labeling is not practical or because they are covered by separate rules.

1. Foods for Special Medical Use

Includes medical foods, infant formulas, or products for specific dietary management of diseases. Governed by separate FDA guidelines with their labeling requirements.

2. Bottled Drinking Water

Exempt from standard nutrition labeling unless they make nutrition or health claims (e.g., “rich in minerals” or “alkaline water”). Still required to display basic information such as product name, net content, and manufacturer details.

3. Small Packages

Products with less than 10 square centimeters of label space are exempt from the full Nutrition Facts Panel. Basic labeling, including product name, net weight, and manufacturer details, must still be provided.

4. Ready-to-Eat Foods for Immediate Consumption

Includes foods prepared and sold in restaurants, cafeterias, bakeries, and food stalls. Exemption applies when food is not prepackaged for retail sale.

5. Bulk Raw Materials for Further Processing

Refers to unprocessed or semi-processed food ingredients sold in bulk to manufacturers, bakeries, or food service establishments. Nutrition labeling will be provided on the finished product, not on the raw material packaging.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Food Labeling

1. Making Unverified Health Claims

Claims like “boosts immunity,” “lowers cholesterol,” or “prevents cancer” must be backed by scientific evidence and approved by the FDA. Unverified claims can be considered false advertising and mislead consumers, which can lead to sanctions.

2. Leaving Out Manufacturer or Importer Details

Every packaged food must clearly state the full name, complete address, and country of origin of the manufacturer, repacker, importer, or distributor. Missing this information can make products non-compliant and hard to trace in case of recalls.

3. Poor Translations on Imported Goods

Imported products must have an accurate English or Filipino translation of the label. Bad translations can result in confusing instructions or incorrect allergen declarations, which can endanger consumers.

4. Inconsistent Nutrition Facts Compared to Lab Analysis

The nutrition information on the label must match the actual composition of the product based on laboratory testing. Discrepancies — even small ones — can cause FDA rejection during inspection or re-labeling requirements.

Practical Tips for Food Label Compliance

Staying compliant with food labeling regulations isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s also about building consumer trust and protecting your brand. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Audit Labels Regularly

Conduct routine label reviews to ensure all information is accurate, complete, and up to date. Check for correct spelling, metric measurements, and FDA-required formats for Nutrition Facts and allergen declarations. Verify that claims (e.g., “low fat,” “high in vitamin C”) are scientifically supported and within legal limits.

2. Stay Updated

Food labeling laws can change without much notice. Regularly monitor FDA Philippines announcements, Department of Health (DOH) advisories, and Codex Alimentarius updates. Join industry associations or regulatory forums to stay informed about new requirements and best practices.

3. Work with Experts

Collaborate with food scientists or nutritionists for accurate nutritional analysis. Consult graphic designers who understand FDA’s layout and legibility standards. Partner with regulatory consultants or compliance officers to help with documentation, product registration, and legal requirements.

4. Be Transparent

Provide honest and clear information on all ingredients, additives, and allergens — even if not explicitly required for marketing appeal. Avoid misleading claims or vague terms (e.g., “natural” without definition). Transparency builds consumer confidence and can become a key selling point for your brand.

Turning Compliance into a Competitive Advantage

Following the Mandatory Food Labeling Standards in the Philippines isn’t just about meeting legal obligations—it’s about building trust, ensuring safety, and enhancing brand value.

Your label is your handshake to every customer who picks up your product. Make sure it communicates exactly what’s inside, why it’s safe, and why they should trust your brand.

In the food business, clarity isn’t just compliance—it’s your edge.