VCO Production and Marketing Standards IRR

Promote viability of the virgin coconut oil (VCO) sector within the coconut industry.
Enforce mandatory minimum standards for processing and fair marketing.
Ensure competitiveness of VCO.
Protect consumer interests and safety.

All coconut oil labeled or represented as VCO, sold domestically or exported, must comply with mandatory standards.
Standards adopted by PCA and registered as Philippine National Standards: PNS/BAFPS 22:2004, ICS 67.200.10 / Amendment 1:2005.
Full standard text attached as integral part of the Order.

All producers, processors, traders, and exporters must register annually with PCA under existing administrative orders.
If VCO is for human consumption, dietary or therapeutic uses, a License to Operate must be obtained from the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD).
For export intended VCO, a commodity clearance from PCA is required.
Commodity clearance issuance depends on inspection, sampling, and laboratory analysis by PCA.

Product labels must clearly disclose the production process used.
Acceptable processes include traditional (latik), fermentation (with or without heat), centrifuge, expelling method, or equivalent processes that meet defined standards.
Ensures product conformity with chemical and physical quality requirements.

Producers must adhere to a suitable manufacturing practice or "kitchen-clean" plan.
Controls required for sanitation, raw material handling, storage, packaging, and waste disposal.
Aim to minimize contamination risks including particulates and microbial organisms.
Guidelines aligned with BFAD Administrative Order No.153, s. 2004 for food handling.

PCA conducts plant inspections upon registration application.
Inspections cover plant premises and adjacent sites to ensure sanitary conditions.
Key inspection criteria:
- Proper plant location with adequate isolation from animals and pollution sources.
- Adequate lighting, ventilation, water supply, and hygienic facilities.
- Pest-free environment.
- Plant design facilitating good housekeeping, washable surfaces, and proper drainage.
- Use of food grade containers and utensils.
- Non-porous work surfaces like stainless steel or tiles.
- Healthy workers complying with strict personal hygiene standards.
Emphasis on avoiding contamination and maintaining sanitary operations.

PCA officials will conduct periodic inspections at least once yearly.
Additional inspections upon verified report or complaint on standards non-compliance.

Violations can lead to cancelation, suspension, or revocation of Certificates of Registration.
Non-issuance of export or commodity clearances for non-compliance.
Possible legal actions with BFAD, Department of Trade and Industry, or National Consumers Council as per existing laws.

PCA may amend or supplement these rules to include new standards or practices.
Amendments may come from PCA, related government agencies, or recognized international bodies.
Changes will be promulgated through proper administrative issuances.

Order becomes effective fifteen (15) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.