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The Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) of the Department of Health has determined, based on its findings, that all processed and pre-packaged food products which are currently in the Philippine market have passed the food safety evaluation and met international food safety standards. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food Agricultural Organization (FAO), in a joint committee finding, found out that the risks from the GM foods (or genetically-modified foods) are no different from traditionally-produced foods. The focus of review of the BFAD is on the characteristics and risks of the product and not the process by which it was produced. Labeling does not provide one with additional health or safety information. At present, the BFAD conforms with the labeling requirements of the WHO/FAO Codex Alimentarius, the international standards for processed foods. The possible impact of a policy on labeling of GMO foods for the purpose of the consumer's right to know and make an informed choice will still be discussed by the Departments of Health, Trade, Agriculture, and Science and Technology, along with other stakeholders, including the food industry. |