Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF CHAPTER III "FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS" OF THE CODE ON SANITATION OF THE PHILIPPINES)
These implementing rules and regulations apply to all food establishments and facilities including those located in vessels, food containers, vehicles, and food sold in the streets.
Adulterated food is one that contains any poisonous or deleterious substances in a quantity which may render it injurious to health, or has been processed, prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions, where valuable nutrients have been in part or in whole omitted.
No person or entity shall operate a food establishment for public patronage without securing a Sanitary Permit from the city or municipality health office.
The Sanitary Permit is valid for one year, ending on the last day of December of each year, and must be renewed every year. For new establishments, the permit also expires at the end of December of the current year.
Readily perishable foods shall be stored at 7°C (45°F) or below. Cooked foods to be served hot shall be kept at not less than 60°C (140°F). Food to be served cold shall be kept below 7°C (45°F).
Food establishments must provide wash-hand basins with soap and drying facilities, adequate clean toilet facilities accessible to customers and personnel, and potable water supply. These facilities must meet specifications on cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, and plumbing.
Food establishments are classified as Class A, B, or C based on their sanitation percentage rating: Class A (90-100%), Class B (70-89%), and Class C (50-69%). Establishments below 50% rating may have their permits cancelled.
Any person violating the provisions shall be guilty of misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months or a fine not exceeding P1,000 or both, at the court's discretion.
Sanitation inspectors or authorized health officers may enter premises engaged in food manufacture, preparation, or sale at reasonable times for inspection and enforcement of these rules. Inspections shall be based on Mission Orders and records shall be maintained.