The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reiterated on Tuesday its warning against the consumption of unregistered lambanog or coconut vodka this holiday season.

In an advisory, the FDA cautioned the public against the consumption of unregistered and unapproved processed foods, such as alcoholic beverages, which are common during Christmas and New Year.

Among these, the agency noted, is lambanog, a traditional Filipino distilled palm liquor made from the distillation of naturally fermented tuba (sap) from palm trees.

Lambanog is well-known for its strong alcohol concentration and can be used as a base liquor for various flavored spirits and cocktail creations.

Unregistered lambanog production is illegal in the Philippines under regulations by the FDA and the Department of Agriculture.

The FDA reminded consumers to only purchase lambanog that is properly sealed and made by companies registered with the FDA.

“Products not registered with the FDA may pose a risk to the health of the consuming public because they have not passed the agency's review. Because of this, the quality and safety are NOT guaranteed by the FDA,” it pointed out.

“Lambanog, a traditional Filipino alcoholic drink, is one of those that may pose a risk to the health of Filipinos. Lambanog that is not registered with the FDA may contain high levels of methanol.”

Several deaths still occur each year from methanol poisoning after drinking unregistered lambanog.

In December 2019, at least 23 people died and more than 300 were treated after drinking moonshine lambanog in Laguna and Quezon.

Also among the effects of drinking high levels of methanol in the body include: blindness, stomach ache, vomiting, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and difficulty breathing.

Other effects may lead to seizures and comatose.

“Go to the nearest hospital immediately to get treatment if you experience any of the symptoms,” the FDA stressed.

To find FDA-registered health products, visit the FDA's verification website at https://verification.fda.gov.ph/Home.php.