Bukidnon pineapple jam maker gets FDA approval via DOST consultancy

 By Goldy H. Cordero

MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA)--Mama Nene Homemade Delights, also known locally as Paula’s Bukidnon Delight, has obtained the Certificate of Product Registration for its Pineapple jam through the consultancy and training services of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires the Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) for food products (beverages, water, canned goods, etc.), food supplements, medicines, and other items if such products will be exported. It is also a requirement of institutional buyers such as malls and supermarkets. 

 

With the newly acquired CPR, this woman-led enterprise can expand its market reach and offer its delicious and high-quality pineapple jam nationwide through various malls, pasalubong centers, and others.

Paula’s Bukidnon Delight owner Paula Chiong showcases her pineapple jam and other products available at their café in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. (DOST 10-Bukidnon)

Paula Chiong, the owner, considers this achievement a significant milestone since pineapple jam is the very first product of the business.

 

“I thought imposible para sa micro nga negosyante nga maka kuha og FDA LTO and CPR. But with the help and guide of DOST napasayon and napadali kini. This proves nga walay impossible basta naay pasensya, pagkugi, perseverance, and determination. Karon, challenges napud ang atubangon which is to conquer the Philippine market,” Chiong said.

 

She shared how DOST assisted her firm in acquiring her FDA License to Operate--and now her CPR. She said that with this new milestone, she is ready to face a new challenge: To conquer the Philippine market.  

 

The firm first acquired the SETUP program. Aside from the technology upgrade, they also have a license for the Enhanced Nutribun Technology from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI). The firm is also a beneficiary of the Manufacturing Productivity Extension (MPEX) Program through the consultancy services of DOST. These programs have helped the company improve its plant layout, food safety, and halal training, which can help boost the firm’s competitiveness and productivity. 

DOST Bukidnon Provincial Director Ritchie Mae Guno monitors the project at Paula's Bukidnon Delights facility. (DOST 10-Bukidnon)

The DOST 10 Regional Standards and Testing Laboratories also assisted the company with its laboratory analysis.

 

Chiong is currently producing 1,000 kilograms of pineapple jam every month--an increase of 66% after DOST intervention and has produced seven additional products such as pineapple muffin, pineapple ensaymada, Paula’s Mango Jam, Paula’s Langka, Paula’s vinegar, Paula’s vinaigrette and Paula’s Chili Sauce.

 

Paula’s Bukidnon Delight products are now among the province's most sought-after 'Pasalubong' goods. 

 

The firm also welcomes walk-in visitors to their newly opened café at the Kaamulan Ground, Capitol Compound, Malaybalay City, where their Enutribun facility is situated. (DOST 10-Bukidnon/PIA 10/Bukidnon)

An irresistible pineapple jam from Paula’s Bukidnon Delights. (DOST 10-Bukidnon)