FDA warns against sale of flood-exposed health products

Following the recent devastation caused by the typhoon-enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat,” the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday, Aug. 6, issued a warning regarding the purchase of health products damaged by flooding.
The torrential rainfall resulted in widespread flooding and electrical disruptions across several areas in Metro Manila and neighboring regions.
In the aftermath, the FDA said numerous factories, warehouses, and establishments involved in the manufacturing, processing, packing, or storage of health products—including drugstores and retail outlets—have been submerged in floodwaters.
This exposure “compromised the quality, safety, efficacy, and purity” of these products, it added.
To address these concerns and protect public health, the FDA reiterated its Circular 2012-014, titled “Disposition of Flood-Affected Health Products,” originally issued on Aug. 16, 2012.
The FDA circular serves as a reminder to both establishments and consumers about the risks associated with water-damaged health products.
It specifically states that health products exposed to floodwaters should not be sold or resold, as their safety and effectiveness could be compromised.