Certifications to Look for on Fortified Foods in the Philippines
Choosing the right fortified foods or health supplement goes beyond just reading the nutrition label. In the Philippines, certain certifications signal that a product meets national health standards, religious requirements, or voluntary enrichment goals.
At Philippine Nutri-Foods Corporation (PNFC), we believe in transparency, safety, and trust. While not all our products carry every certification, some do, and for good reason. Here’s a breakdown of the most important Philippine food product certifications you should look for when buying functional or fortified foods.
1. Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPS)
What it is:
The Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPSP) is awarded by the Department of Health (DOH) to processed food products that are fortified with essential micronutrients to help combat common deficiencies in the Filipino population.
SPSP is a collaborative initiative between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the DOH in the Philippines, aimed at promoting public health through improved nutrition. Managed by the FDA under the guidance and support of the DOH, the program encourages food manufacturers to fortify processed foods with essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring these products contribute to the nutritional needs of Filipinos. The SPSP serves as a trusted symbol that enables consumers to easily identify and select nutritious, fortified food products, thereby supporting healthier dietary choices and enhancing overall wellbeing across the nation.
Micronutrients commonly required for SPS:
- Vitamin A
- Iron
- Iodine
Why it matters:
Micronutrient deficiencies, also called “hidden hunger,” affect millions of Filipinos. The SPS certifies that the product contributes to addressing these public health concerns.
Look for it if:
You want added nutritional benefits for your child or household. This seal assures that the product follows DOH-recommended fortification levels.
Note: Not all fortified products carry the Sangkap Pinoy Seal. The FDA, acting on behalf of the DOH, reviews applications from manufacturers who wish to use the SPSP seal.
2. Halal Certification
What it is:
Halal-certified products meet the dietary standards prescribed in Islamic law, verified by accredited Halal-certifying bodies and recognized by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and the Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB).
Why it matters:
Halal certification ensures the product:
- Contains no prohibited ingredients (e.g., pork, alcohol)
- Was processed and handled in a permissible way
- Meets hygiene and ethical standards
Look for it if:
You observe Halal dietary laws, or simply prefer products with a high level of traceability and integrity.
Tip: Halal logos may vary depending on the certifying body (e.g., IDCP, HICC, ULHCS). Always check for official seal + certifying agency name.
3. FDA Certificate of Product Registration (CPR)
What it is:
All food supplements and many fortified food products must be registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA Philippines). Once approved, the product receives a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR).
Why it matters:
- An FDA registration:
- Confirms that the product meets safety and labeling requirements
- Protects you from substandard or counterfeit goods
Look for it if:
You want to ensure the product is legally sold and approved for human consumption.
4. Fortified Food Logos (e.g., DOH-Endorsed or DOST Nutrient Claims)
Some products, especially those made for school feeding programs or mass-market consumption, may carry additional endorsements from agencies like:
- Department of Science and Technology – FNRI
- Department of Education (DepEd) for school-based food products
These are not always formal certifications, but they reflect specialized program inclusion or compliance with fortification standards.
PNFC’s Position on Certifications
At Philippine Nutri-Foods, we ensure that each of our products goes through a rigorous evaluation process for the certifications that apply to it. We aim to make functional nutrition more accessible while respecting diverse dietary needs and regulatory standards.
What You Can Do as a Consumer
- Read the label carefully: Look for logos or registration numbers.
- Check official databases: Visit the DOH, NCMF, or FDA websites.
- Ask the brand directly: Especially for online purchases, it’s okay to request certification info.
- Stay updated: Some certifications expire and need renewal—always check for current validity.
Fortified foods and supplements can support health and well-being—but certifications matter. Whether it’s the Sangkap Pinoy Seal, Halal certification, or FDA approval, knowing what each seal stands for can help you make informed, values-based choices.
Other Stories That You May Like
Contact Us
- Launchpad Coworking 214-215 Commercenter East Asia Drive corner Commerce Avenue Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang Muntinlupa City
-
Paul Hipolito (Luzon):
0917-123-6516 Fritz Orio (VisMin):
0917-123-7944 Marco Umayam (retail): 09173064195 - infopnfc@nutrifoods.com.ph
Sitemap
Helpful Links
- Public Resources
- Vita Meena Info Site
Tackling SDGs Together
- Better Nutrition, Better Nation
Copyright ©2025 Philippine Nutri-food Corporation. All rights reserved.