The Department of Science and Technology Region VI, in collaboration with Central Philippine University, recently launched the Technical Guide on Food Product Packaging in the Philippines, a milestone knowledge product designed to equip MSMEs and industry stakeholders with science-based tools for informed decision-making.

Rooted in DOST VI’s commitment to being not just a service agency but a knowledge institution, this initiative bridges research and practice.

Far beyond a reference manual, the guide addresses key challenges in packaging selection, food safety, shelf-life extension, material compatibility, and regulatory compliance, making it an essential resource for food manufacturers navigating complex packaging requirements. It consolidates technical standards, labeling laws, and packaging principles into an accessible format, empowering users without requiring specialized backgrounds. Moreover, the guide reflects a systems-level approach to MSME development, where science, technology, and innovation translate into practical solutions that boost product competitiveness and market access.

As MSMEs continue to drive the Philippine food economy, tools like this technical guide create ripple effects across the value chain. By consolidating packaging knowledge and encouraging science-based planning, DOST VI is not only raising industry standards but also shaping a more informed, resilient, and innovation-driven packaging ecosystem where local products can thrive both locally and globally. (PAUSambas, Photos by SCNaval and The Centralian Link)