Food registration for caterers and eateries
Food

Food registration for caterers and eateries

May 3, 2026

How to think about Food Act registration, food control plans, and national programmes.

Filipino food operators often start with catering trays, market stalls, weekend pop-ups, or home kitchens. Before taking regular orders, check the Food Act path for your exact activity.

Use MPI's tools and your local council process to confirm whether you need a food control plan or national programme. Higher-risk activities, especially those involving cooked meals, storage, transport, and reheating, need stronger documented systems.

Keep written procedures for temperatures, cleaning, allergen information, ingredient suppliers, delivery times, and complaint handling. These records also help customers trust your listing.

Key facts

  • MPI says food businesses need to know whether they will use a food control plan or national programme before registering.
  • MPI says higher-risk food businesses use food control plans, while lower and medium-risk businesses may follow national programmes.