DOH to re-introduce melamine-free milk products

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) will come up with a system to re-introduce milk products that tested negative for melamine in the market.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III responded to statements by some supermarket owners that they wanted to see clearance documents from the DOH before they sell a particular product again.

“I’ll discuss with (DOH) Undersecretary Alex Padilla how we are going to do it,” he said.

The DOH had banned the selling of China-made milk and milk products unless they pass melamine tests conducted by the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD).

Meanwhile, Duque urged market operators to keep a tight watch against smuggled products.

“They should always sell only those that are registered with BFAD because they’ll be held liable if they do otherwise,” he said.

As policy, the products that failed the melamine tests must be reformulated and be re-applied for BFAD registration.

Sen. Pia Cayetano said yesterday a bill seeking to strengthen BFAD would be passed when Congress resumes session next month.

“I expect the bicameral version approved and signed into law before the end of the year,” she said.

Cayetano said Senate Bill 2645 aims to convert the BFAD into the Food, Drugs, Cosmetics and Devices Administration (FDCDA).

“The FDCDA will have expanded powers that BFAD currently does not enjoy,” she said.

“It can order the ban, recall or withdrawal of health products, including food, drugs, cosmetics and devices that fail safety standards.”

Cayetano, Senate committee on health and demography chairwoman, said the FDCDA would have the authority to conduct spot checks on establishments for compliance, issue cease-and-desist orders and seize illegal products.

“The FDCDA’s broad powers include accrediting private laboratories to complement its work, especially in times of public health emergencies, like the recent melamine scare,” she said.

The agency would continue to assume primary jurisdiction in the collection of health products for testing purpose, Cayetano said. — Sheila Crisostomo, Aurea Calica