The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines has raised a significant alarm regarding the widespread promotion of food and dietary supplements across the nation. In an official advisory released on Wednesday, November 3, 2025, the regulatory body highlighted its deep concern over marketing practices that could dangerously mislead consumers.
FDA's Core Concern: Blurring the Line Between Food and Medicine
In its Advisory No. 2025-1552, the FDA explicitly stated its serious apprehension about the massive advertisement, promotion, and marketing of these products. The agency fears that the aggressive campaigns are creating potential confusion for the public, despite existing rules and regulations governing the sector.
"These may mislead some consumers into buying them as drugs or medicines to treat, cure, or prevent any disease," the FDA cautioned. This confusion poses a direct risk to public health, as individuals might forego necessary medical treatment in favor of unproven supplements.
Strict Reminder: Supplements Are Not Therapeutic Drugs
The agency delivered a clear and unequivocal message: all food and dietary supplements have no approved therapeutic claims. They must never be used as substitutes for drugs intended to treat illnesses. "We are warning the public against the use of food and dietary supplements for therapeutic purposes," the FDA emphasized, reinforcing that these products are not medicines.
Their primary purpose is strictly as adjunct nutritional support to complement a regular diet. "All food and dietary supplements are only adjunct nutritional substances to support food intake and are not meant to replace prescribed drugs and medicines," the advisory clarified.
Mandatory Labeling and a Call to Healthcare Professionals
To combat misinformation, the FDA reiterated that these products must comply with strict labeling requirements. A critical component of this is the mandatory inclusion of the statement: “NO APPROVED THERAPEUTIC CLAIMS.” This label is a key tool to inform consumers at the point of purchase.
Furthermore, the FDA called upon healthcare professionals to play an active role in public education. The agency urges doctors, pharmacists, and other medical practitioners to educate their patients and actively discourage the use of food and dietary supplements for treating diseases. This collaborative effort is seen as vital in ensuring accurate health information reaches the public.
The FDA's move underscores its commitment to safeguarding Filipino consumers from potentially harmful misconceptions in the rapidly growing wellness product market.
