Read this: Fast facts on packaging
October 11, 2005 | 12:00am
In connection with Consumer Welfare Month this month (yes, dear consumers, there is such a celebration), FYI, we’re running this Q & A, in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry. This kicks off a series of articles we’ll be coming out with that may be of interest to consumers.
What is fair packaging?
Fair packaging is the packaging of consumer products with the intent of stating what the consumer is actually purchasing. Fair packaging must contain correct and accurate information on contents, size, quantity, measurement or fill of the product.
What is protection of product through packaging?
The packaging of consumer products shall reasonably serve to protect the product under ordinary handling until the same is to be used by the buyer within a reasonable time.
Are artistic or aesthetic considerations in the packaging of a product allowed?
Yes, artistic or aesthetic considerations in the packaging of consumer products are allowed provided steps are taken to avoid possible misconception by consumers as to the product’s contents, size, quantity, measurement or fill.
Can the packaging of consumer products under sales promotion differ or vary from that of products for regular distribution?
Yes, the packaging of consumer products which are under sales promotion may vary from that of products for regular distribution, provided that the contents, size, quantity, measurement or fill are not affected to the prejudice of the buyer.
What is a non-functionally slacked-filled packaged consumer product?
A consumer product packed-filled less than its capacity is a non-functionally slacked-filled packaged consumer product.
Is non-functionally slacked-filled packaging allowed by law?
Yes, provided it clearly and conspicuously indicates in its labeling the correct quantity of its contents, size, measurement or fill. However, basic necessities are not allowed to use non-functionally slacked-filled packaging.
When are handling instructions required in packaging?
Packaged consumer products, which may be endangered even by ordinary handling, shall indicate in their labeling appropriate handling procedures in order to protect the product. Where accessories of a consumer product are packaged separately, the packaging of such accessories shall also be provided with appropriate care and/or appropriate handling instructions.
What are the requirements for dangerous packaging?
Where the packaging of a consumer product poses danger to person or property upon improper use, handling or disposal, a warning or indication on what improper use, handling or disposal should be avoided shall be provided on the packaging itself. Whenever possible, first-aid treatments and information on when it is necessary to take the victim to a physician shall also be provided in the package labeling.
What are the requirements for the packaging of dangerous products?
Whenever practicable, consumer products or accessories, which are likely to cause injury to persons or damage to property, shall be packaged in such a way as to prevent accidents in product handling. Where precautions or warnings are necessary they shall be provided in the package labeling in clear, conspicuous, and unmistakable terms.
What comprises special packaging for children?
Appropriate warnings such as "Warning: Keep out of reach of children" or words to that effect shall be provided in the product’s outermost packaging. Such warnings shall be directed to adults. However, whenever possible, warnings directed to or understandable by children shall be provided. Moreover, packaging of dangerous or accident-prone consumer products or those likely to cause injury to persons shall be made difficult for children to open.
What is the penalty for the violation of this provision?
Criminal penalty: A fine of not less than P500 but not more than P20,000 or imprisonment of not less than three months but not more than two years or both, at the discretion of the court: Provided, if the consumer product is one which is not a food, cosmetic, drug, device or hazardous substance, the penalty shall be fine of not less than P200 but not more than P5,000 or imprisonment of not less than one month but not more than one year or both at the discretion of the court.
Administrative (Article 95, Consumer Act) penalty: The imposition of administrative fines in such amount as deemed reasonable by the Secretary, which shall in no case be less than P500 or more than P300,000 depending on the gravity of the offense, and an additional fine of not more than P1,000 for each day of continuing violation.
Again, FYI, the Consumer Welfare Month, as mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 1098, aims to promote the dissemination of accurate information on consumer welfare, rights, responsibilities, and protection. At the same time, dialogues, workshops or fora related to government policies, consumer issues and concerns are ongoing throughout the month.
The lack of consumer awareness and information poses a threat to consumer protection, as the consumer unwittingly falls prey to unjust and unfair practices by unscrupulous traders, producers, and merchants.
Once more, with all-consuming passion: Information empowers people. A well-informed consumer is a vigilant, protected, and empowered consumer. And an empowered consumer is a responsible citizen who will collaborate with government and society to protect the welfare of everyone.
Instant noodles do not contain any wax. Noodle strands do not stick together because of cassava or potato starch, one of its main ingredients (alongside other natural ingredients like wheat flour, palm oil, and salt). Starch is what gives instant noodles its smooth texture and chewy bite. Its removal will cause clumping among the strands.
Neither do the styrofoam containers have wax. Styrofoam is composed of 95 percent air and 5 percent polystyrene. It meets stringent US FDA standards for use in food packaging and is safe for consumers. It does not in any way transfer its odor or taste to food because it is an inert, unreactive material.
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