October 23, 2008

An attempt to convert smuggled animal feeds into milk "fit for human consumption" had been stopped when a shipment stored in a number of Bulacan (Luzon) warehouses was seized, according to authorities in Manila.

The confiscated products, worth about PHP 5 million (US$101,800), came from New Zealand and were meant to be used as an ingredient for animal feeds manufacturing, said Antonion Villar Jr. from the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG).

However, it was discovered that warehouse workers had repacked the items to be "converted" into milk, and workers would stick labels indicating that they are milk products safe for human consumption with the words "essential for growing children, women, and elderly."

The expiry date indicated on the milk products had also been altered to make them appear consumable for the next two years.

The warehouse owner had failed to present valid import documents and authorities have to check with the Bureau of Food and Drugs if the animal feed contained melamine.

Last week, the PASG also intercepted a shipment of milk products imported from Ukraine that was supposed to be repacked.