A government agency is now the laughing stock of reporters after giving away expired goods during its year-end press conference, which also served as an appreciation party for members of the media.

“I hope they had just an honest mistake when I saw the grocery items. But when I asked other colleagues, they received the same expired goods,” the journo told the DAILY TRIBUNE, laughing.

However, the journalist said they have no ill feelings toward the agency for the blunder, but noted, “They could have given a Christmas card instead of spoiled goods, which can affect the health of those who attended.”

Consuming spoiled or expired food can pose serious health risks, ranging from minor digestive issues to severe bacterial infections.

However, most food is still safe to eat after the expiration or “use by” date. Even milk and eggs are usually safe after the expiration date.

The health effects are not abrupt, but humiliation could be “viral.”

The agency is an attached office of another agency responsible for the welfare of the country’s waters and vessels plying on them.