Gov't asks food importers, manufacturers to ensure absence of maleic acid

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered today all importers and manufacturers of starch-based food products to submit certificate of analysis of their goods to ensure the absence of maleic acid, a hazardous substance.

The order was contained in a memorandum circular and in accordance with the FDA's earlier public advisory banning food products contaminated with maleic acid, FDA Director General Kenneth Hartigan-Go said.

"All importers and manufacturers of starch-based food products such as starch powder, pearls and noodles are hereby required to submit certificate of analysis to confirm the absence of maleic acid on or before 31 July 2013," he said.

According to the FDA, maleic acid is not an approved additive for manufacturing food products. Long term consumption of high levels of maleic acid could harm kidney.