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Philippines: FDA Aligns RUTF Standards with Codex Guidelines
- ARQon
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
On 3 July 2025, the Philippines Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued Circular No. 2025-003, officially adopting the Codex Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) as a technical regulation.
As part of this commitment, the FDA announced the adoption of the Codex Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) – CXG 95-2022, amended in 2023, ensuring higher quality and safety standards for therapeutic foods distributed across the country.
This policy plays a critical role in safeguarding the health of children aged 6 to 59 months suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The FDA will review and evaluate the circular within three years to assess its effectiveness in ensuring the safety and quality of RUTFs. The circular has been officially effective 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette.
What Are Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)?
RUTFs are specially formulated foods designed for the dietary management of children with SAM who do not present medical complications. These foods are high in energy, protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, and are soft or crushable, making children aged 6 to 59 months to consume without cooking or preparation.
According to the new guidelines, RUTFs are a type of food for special medical purposes. SAM is defined by a weight-for-height (or length) less than -3 Z-score, a mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) less than 11.5cm, or the presence of bilateral edema. Unlike general retail food products, RUTFs are specifically intended for use under health programs and community-based malnutrition management.
Why Adopt Codex Guidelines?
Previously, the Philippines did not have a national reference standard for RUTF safety and quality. By adopting the Codex Alimentarius Guidelines (CXG 95-2022 Rev. 2023), the FDA ensures that:
RUTF formulations meet nutritional composition standards, including energy density, protein quality, lipid content, and vitamin and mineral requirements.
Manufacturing processes comply with Good Manufacturing and Hygiene Practices, minimizing contamination risks.
Packaging and labeling follow international norms, ensuring proper guidance for caregivers and healthcare workers.
All food business operators (FBOs) involved in RUTF production, importation, and distribution are licensed and registered in line with national regulations.
This alignment with global standards strengthens consumer trust, enhances product safety, and ensures that Filipino children receive nutritionally adequate and safe therapeutic foods during recovery.
Scope of the Circular
The new FDA circular applies exclusively to RUTFs for children aged 6-59 months diagnosed with SAM. It does not cover:
Ready-to-Use Supplementary Foods (RUSF)
Micronutrient powders or supplements
Processed cereal-based foods
Other complementary or fortified foods for infants and young children
Key Regulatory Requirements for Food Business Operators (FBOs)
To ensure compliance, all FBOs engaged in the manufacture, importation, or distribution of RUTF must:
Secure a License to Operate (LTO): In accordance with Administrative Orders 2014-0029 and 2024-0015
Apply for a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR): Following provisions under AO 2014-0029 and FDA Circular 2020-033
Comply with related laws and regulations: Including the Milk Code of the Philippines (EO No. 51) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations
Adopt future revisions to Codex standards automatically, provided they align with the Philippines' food safety regulations
Protecting the Most Vulnerable
By adopting the Codex Guidelines, the DOH and FDA reaffirm their commitment to protecting Filipino children from the life-threatening consequences of severe acute malnutrition. This policy ensures that therapeutic foods meet the highest standards of safety, nutritional quality, and accessibility, ultimately strengthening the country’s fight against child malnutrition.
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