Filipino classics Mang Tomas, UFC, and Jufran are officially back in the U.S. market after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration lifted a red list warning that had sparked concern among overseas Pinoys.
NutriAsia, the manufacturer behind the sauces, confirmed that the products were flagged not for safety concerns but for labeling compliance issues. These included technical discrepancies with ingredient lists and formatting—not the actual contents or quality of the sauces themselves.
The products were briefly placed on Import Alert 99-42, a list used by the FDA to stop imports that may violate U.S. standards. As a result, shipments of the sauces were either held or denied entry, prompting many Filipino-American consumers to notice their sudden absence from store shelves.
NutriAsia clarified that the issue was purely regulatory and said they quickly worked with U.S. authorities to update packaging in line with FDA requirements. As of 10 June 2025, all three sauces have been officially cleared for import and sale in the U.S.
The company also reassured consumers that there were no safety or quality issues with the products in the Philippines or elsewhere.
For many Filipinos living abroad, the quick resolution means more than just restocking the pantry—it’s a reminder of how closely tied food is to identity and home. Mang Tomas with lechon or UFC banana ketchup on a fried egg isn’t just a meal—it’s a memory.
Now that these staples are returning to shelves, it’s back to regular programming for diaspora kitchens across America.
