Philippines FDA Issues Public Warning Against Unregistered “SEMPIO Soondubu Jjigae Spicy Tofu Stew Sauce

The Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released FDA Advisory No. 2025-1606, warning healthcare professionals, retailers, and the general public not to purchase or consume the unregistered food product “SEMPIO Soondubu Jjigae Spicy Tofu Stew Sauce (In Foreign Language).”

Based on online monitoring and post-marketing surveillance, the FDA confirmed that the product is not registered and has not been issued a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR). As such, the agency cannot assure the product’s quality, safety, or compliance with regulatory requirements, as it has not undergone the FDA’s evaluation process.

Under Republic Act No. 9711 (the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009), the manufacture, importation, exportation, sale, offering for sale, distribution, promotion, advertising, or sponsorship of health products without proper authorization is prohibited. Establishments found distributing, selling, or promoting the unregistered product may face regulatory actions and sanctions.

The FDA has instructed all concerned establishments to immediately cease distribution, sale, advertising, and promotion of the product until a valid CPR is obtained. Local authorities have been requested to ensure the product is not made available within their jurisdictions, and the Bureau of Customs has been enjoined to restrain the importation and exportation of this and other unregistered food products.

The Market Authorization Holder may seek the lifting of the advisory by submitting a formal petition to the FDA, supported by a valid CPR, clear photographic evidence of the compliant product in its final commercial presentation, and a copy of the advisory for verification.

Consumers and stakeholders are encouraged to verify product registration through the FDA Verification Portal and the FDA Advisories Issuances Database, and to report any continued sale or distribution of unregistered food products to the FDA.

The FDA reiterated its call for the public to purchase only registered food products to safeguard consumer health and ensure regulatory compliance.