Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Bernal Bagoong is a family-owned food manufacturing enterprise based in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines. Specializing in traditional Filipino fermented condiments such as bagoong (shrimp paste) and patis (fish sauce), the company has carved a niche in both domestic and international markets as a producer of premium-quality, heritage-driven food products.

Company History

Founded by the Bernal family in the heart of the Philippines’ fish sauce and bagoong capital, Lingayen, Bernal Bagoong carries decades of artisanal tradition in fermented condiments. From humble beginnings catering to the local community, the company has grown into a notable player in the regional condiment industry, leveraging time-honored recipes passed down through generations.

Core Business

Bernal Bagoong’s core operations focus on the manufacture, packaging, and distribution of various forms of fish sauce and bagoong. The company caters to both local and international markets, with exports registered to countries with significant Filipino diaspora. Their production combines traditional fermentation methods with modern bottling and quality control systems.

Product and Service Offerings

• Fish Sauce (Patis):

  • Classic Terong
  • Calamansi-infused
  • Chili-Calamansi variant
  • Available in 750ml and 320ml bottles

• Bagoong (Shrimp Paste):

  • Boneless Pangasinan-style Bagoong
  • Available in 750ml jars
  • Ground Bagoong variants for culinary flexibility

These products are available through local wet markets, independent groceries, regional distributors, and e-commerce platforms. The company’s emphasis on flavor authenticity and minimal preservatives makes it popular among home cooks and chefs seeking authentic Filipino flavors.

Specialization and Core USP

Bernal Bagoong is known for its dedication to authentic fermentation processes, yielding deeply savory and richly flavored condiments. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, the company emphasizes:

• Small-batch fermentation
• Hand-prepared shrimp base
• Minimal use of artificial additives

Their products are often preferred in traditional dishes like kare-kare, pinakbet, and binagoongan due to their bold, umami-rich taste profile.

Financials

While no public financials are available, Bernal Bagoong maintains an active presence in export databases. According to data from NBD and ImportYeti, the company has completed multiple shipments of bagoong and patis to regions including North America and the Middle East, indicating solid export operations. Shipment values have ranged from USD 5,000 to USD 25,000 per consignment, showcasing scalable yet specialized operations.

Shipment and Export Activity

Bernal Bagoong has been listed in global trade platforms including NBD and Export Genius. Key shipment highlights:

• Top export destinations: United States, Canada, UAE
• Primary products exported: Bottled fish sauce and shrimp paste
• Typical shipment size: 500 to 1,000 cartons per export cycle

These figures highlight the company’s capacity to meet both small-scale retail and wholesale demand overseas.

Target Market

Bernal Bagoong targets:

• Filipino households and diaspora abroad
• Local wet market retailers and regional distributors
• Asian specialty grocery chains
• Food service establishments requiring traditional condiments

The brand’s appeal is strongest among customers who value artisanal and authentic food preparation methods.

Capabilities

• In-house fermentation and bottling facilities in Pangasinan
• Bulk packaging options for international markets
• Product variants tailored to local taste profiles
• Cold-chain and ambient logistics for domestic and international shipments

Certifications and Compliance

While the company has not listed international certifications such as ISO or HACCP, it operates under Philippine FDA and DTI guidelines. Their products adhere to local sanitary and labeling standards, and export documentation is processed through accredited trade channels.

Customer Testimonials

Feedback collected via online platforms like Lazada and community food blogs frequently praise Bernal Bagoong for its deep flavor, long shelf life, and heritage value. One buyer noted: “Tastes like the real bagoong from my hometown—salty, rich, and perfect for kare-kare.”

Major Achievements

• Successfully penetrated international export markets for traditional Filipino condiments
• Maintained operations as a heritage producer in the competitive regional industry
• Built brand equity among balikbayans and culinary professionals seeking authentic ingredients
• Expanded product lines to include flavored patis variants and ground bagoong types

Bernal Bagoong remains a respected name in the Philippine condiments space, carrying the rich culinary legacy of Pangasinan to kitchens across the globe.