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USFDA removes coconut from major allergens list, boosting Philippine coconut industry

The United States Food and Drug Administration's (USFDA) recent decision to remove coconut from its list of major food allergens has been met with positive feedback from the Philippine trade sector. This move is anticipated to elevate demand for coconut-based products, potentially benefiting local coconut farmers and the export market. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Export Marketing Bureau highlighted that this change could lead to an uptick in demand for a variety of coconut products, including coconut oil, milk, desiccated coconut, water, and sugar. The exemption from special allergen labeling, as mandated by the US Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA), is expected to streamline market access for these products.

Efforts from both the DTI and the Department of Agriculture (DA), along with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and private stakeholders, have been recognized for their role in achieving this regulatory milestone. The cooperation underscores a commitment to overcoming market access and regulatory challenges within the coconut sector. According to Mintel's global new product database, the US market has introduced over 20,000 coconut product variants from 2018 to 2023, indicating a significant presence of coconut-based ingredients in food, beverages, and personal care products.

Stakeholders, including the United Coconut Associations of the Philippines (UCAP) and Peter Paul Philippine Corporation, have expressed optimism about the USFDA's decision. They emphasize the importance of science-based information in shaping global policies and expect the delisting to correct misconceptions and eliminate unnecessary allergen labeling, thereby strengthening the global coconut industry. With coconut products leading the country's exports, totaling USD 524.92 million from January to October 2024, this development is poised to support the industry's continued growth.

Source: PNA

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