Why is Mang Tomas Banned in the US?

If you’ve ever enjoyed a Filipino feast, especially lechon (roast pig), chances are you’ve encountered Mang Tomas All-Purpose Sauce. This iconic brown sauce is a staple in Filipino households and a must-have condiment for many dishes. But if you’ve tried to find Mang Tomas in US grocery stores lately, you might have noticed its absence. So, what happened? Why is Mang Tomas banned in the United States? Let’s dive into the details.

What is Mang Tomas?

Mang Tomas is a Filipino all-purpose sauce, originally formulated as a lechon sauce. It’s thick, tangy, slightly sweet, and savory—perfectly complementing roasted meats. The sauce is made primarily from water, sugar, breadcrumbs, vinegar, and spices, but one key ingredient used to be liver.

While the original version contained pork liver, a liver-free version was introduced in the Philippines and other countries to cater to a broader market, including those avoiding animal products or following specific dietary restrictions.

The Reason Behind the Ban: Sodium Benzoate

The reason Mang Tomas is banned in the US isn’t about its flavor or origin but rather due to an additive—sodium benzoate.

Sodium benzoate is a common preservative used in many food products to prevent bacterial growth and prolong shelf life. While it’s considered safe in small amounts by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the concern arises when it is combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C). When these two ingredients interact, they can form benzene, a known carcinogen that poses a risk to human health.

US Regulations on Sodium Benzoate

The FDA has strict guidelines on the use of sodium benzoate. While it is allowed in low concentrations (generally not exceeding 0.1% by weight), products that may potentially form benzene due to ingredient interactions face tighter scrutiny. Mang Tomas, particularly the version containing sodium benzoate, failed to meet these regulatory standards, which led to the product being pulled from US shelves.

Confusion with the Liver Content?

Some rumors circulated that Mang Tomas was banned due to its pork liver content, which would have been a concern for religious or dietary reasons. However, this isn’t the case. The ban was specifically tied to the preservative issue, not the ingredients related to animal products.

Are There Mang Tomas Alternatives Available in the US?

If you’re craving that familiar tangy flavor but can’t get your hands on Mang Tomas, don’t worry! Some alternatives include:

Lechon Sauce by Other Brands: Look for lechon sauces from other Filipino brands that meet US standards.
Homemade Version: You can make a similar sauce at home using breadcrumbs, vinegar, sugar, and spices—just skip the preservatives.
Liver-Free Versions: Some versions of Mang Tomas that do not contain sodium benzoate may eventually re-enter the US market if they comply with FDA guidelines.

Is There Hope for Mang Tomas to Return to US Shelves?

There’s a possibility that a reformulated version of Mang Tomas, free from the controversial preservative or in compliance with US standards, could make a comeback. Filipino communities in the US have a strong demand for authentic flavors, and manufacturers are likely exploring ways to bring back this beloved sauce.

Final Thoughts

For now, Mang Tomas remains a rare find in the US due to regulatory concerns over sodium benzoate. While fans of Filipino cuisine eagerly await its return, it’s a reminder of how food safety regulations can impact beloved international products. Until then, Filipino food lovers might have to get a little creative in their kitchens or hunt for compliant alternatives.

Have you found any good substitutes for Mang Tomas, or do you prefer to make your own version at home? Let us know! 👇

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