FDA to public: Check labels before buying

IN time for the holiday season, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reminded consumers to properly read the labels when buying processed food products, toys and childcare items, and cosmetic products.

Their official statement advises the public to follow three basic consumer tips when buying these items that are usually in demand as gifts and for Noche Buena. Consumers are told to buy products with appropriate market authorization issued by FDA, buy products from reputable sources or retailers, and to read the label.

“The public is strongly advised to refrain from shopping in shady places. Unregistered food products and unnotified toys and cosmetic products may contain ingredients that may bring harm to your health. For food products, check the environment from where the products are being sold. Food products must at all times be sold under optimal hygienic conditions. Frozen products must be kept frozen and refrigerated products stored in refrigerators. Area of selling must at all times be free from pests such as rodents, insects ,etc,” read FDA’s official statement.

FDA also reminded consumers to make sure that the label on the products that they are buying are not tampered and the seals are still intact. For food, consumers are advised to check the labels before consumption to make sure that consumer is not allergic to any ingredient used. Labels of toys and cosmetic products must also be read to avoid accidents and mishaps from happening.

Packaging of the processed food must be checked, making sure no dents, no rusts, no tear and perforations had taken place. JPA