FDA warns retailers vs sale of non-compliant food, health products

The Philippine Star

February 17, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a strong warning to retail establishments nationwide, stressing that those found selling unregistered, misbranded, expired or otherwise non-compliant food and health products will face swift and decisive sanctions under the law.

This warning accompanied the FDA’s coordinated compliance verification visits to selected major retail establishments across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, conducted through the agency’s Field Regulatory Operations Office and Regional Enforcement Units as part of its continuing consumer protection efforts.

FDA director general Paolo Teston personally joined verification visits at S&R Membership Shopping and Landers Superstore in Bonifacio Global City to demonstrate regulatory presence and active oversight at major retail outlets.

“Some inspections are coordinated to show compliance and assure the public, while others — particularly in markets, warehouses, and suspected distribution points — are conducted unannounced to support enforcement and case-building against illegal products,” Teston said. “Both types of inspections are essential to protect public health.”

Teston emphasized that compliance with FDA regulations is mandatory for all establishments without exception. “All food and health products must be FDA-registered, properly labeled, and fully traceable at all times,” he said. He warned that violations will be met with firm penalties. “Establishments found selling unregistered, misbranded, expired or otherwise non-compliant products will face swift and decisive regulatory action, including seizure of products, suspension or closure of operations, formal prosecution, and the full penalties provided under the law,” Teston said.

The FDA chief further underscored that enforcement will be applied evenly across the retail sector. “The FDA will actively monitor compliance across all retailers — large or small, local or national — and we will not hesitate to take strong action against any establishment that endangers public health,” he said.

“Compliance is mandatory, and failure to follow the law will have immediate consequences.”

FDA director general Paolo Teston leads coordinated compliance verification visits at major retail establishments in Bonifacio Global City as part of nationwide inspections to protect consumers and ensure the safety, proper labeling and registration of food and health products.