Mega Sardines now a ‘Superfood’, Medical Wellness Association shares scientifically-backed criteria why

 

James Michael Lafferty, Board Member of the Medical Wellness Association, with the Mega Sardines team as the brand is officially endorsed as a Superfood after passing MWA’s rigorous health standards.

Manila, Philippines, May 15, 2025 – Mega Sardines, the Philippines’ number 1 sardines brand, has been endorsed as a “Superfood” by the Medical Wellness Association (MWA), a US-based organization of the world’s largest collection physicians and wellness experts. This marks the first sardine brand in the Philippines—and the world—to receive this one‑of‑a‑kind recognition.

James Michael Lafferty, Founding Board Member of the MWA, shared, “Mega Sardines stood out in all areas in our System-6 criteria for a ‘Superfood’. Filipinos value nutrition wellness, especially when preparing meals for their families. With the product being rich in omega-3, high in vitamins, and processed with world-class safety, we can say it's more than a pantry essential—it’s a food that supports overall health.”

The MWA brought to life the insights of Dr. Christopher Golden, Assistant Professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, who emphasized that small fish like sardines are a powerful source of essential nutrients with minimal contaminant risk. These findings helped shape the MWA’s unique System‑6 Criteria that ultimately led to Mega Sardines being recognized as a Superfood, which includes:

1. Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Essential for brain health and reducing inflammation.
2. High in Essential Nutrients – Including Vitamin B-12, making it one of the world’s most nutrient-dense foods.
3. Supports Heart and Metabolic Health – A vital benefit, particularly relevant in the Philippines where heart disease is the leading health issue.
4. Sustainable Supply with Low Contamination Risk – Sardines are small, fast-growing fish, naturally low in mercury.
5. Processed with Maximum Food Safety – “Never touched by human hands” during production for optimal hygiene.
6. “Catch-to-Can” in 12 Hours – Ensures peak freshness and nutrient preservation.

“Mega Sardines is not just a pantry staple—it’s a wellness powerhouse,” Lafferty added. “Based on these proven health benefits, the MWA is proud to bestow its professional recommendation to Mega Sardines—the first and only sardine brand in the Philippines to receive this endorsement. In fact, it is the only seafood brand to do so. This is a proud moment not just for the brand, but for the entire Philippines.”

“We believe in making smart, nutritious food choices accessible to every Filipino family,” said Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer of Mega Prime Foods Inc., the company behind brands such as Mega Mackerel, Mega Prime Quality fruits and vegetables and the newly acquired Jimm’s Coffee Mix. “This recognition reminds us why we do what we do—to provide healthy, high-quality food that every Filipino deserves.”

Official Endorsement Ceremony: Mega Prime Foods Inc. and MWA executives (L-R): Albert Buddahim, Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, James Michael Lafferty, William Tiu Lim, and Mark Henry Camacho receive the MWA Certificate of Endorsement, officially recognizing Mega Sardines as a certified Superfood.

As Mega Sardines strengthens its position as a nutritious, health-conscious choice, this endorsement marks a significant milestone in Mega Prime Foods’ 50-year journey. This aligns with the company’s broader commitment to wellness, not only for consumers, but within the organization itself, through initiatives such as a 3-day wellness journey, executive health checkups, and programs that foster recreation and leadership connection.

In the months ahead, the brand will continue to spotlight the many health benefits of sardines, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to the wellness movement in Filipino households.

For more information, visit Mega Prime Foods Inc. website and discover how Mega Sardines can support your family’s wellness journey.