UFC Catsup

UFC Catsup is a condiment brand was introduced in 1938.

History

Magdalo V. Francisco came up with a method of making catsup from bananas in 1938. Banana catsup were deemed a cheaper alternative than tomato catsup since bananas are abundant in the Philippines.^[1]

In 1942, during the World War II, Francisco began commercial production under the name Mafran, which was derived from the first syllable of his first name and surname. He registered the name with the with the Bureau of Patents. Francisco approach Tirso T. Reyes to ask for funding to expand his business leading to the establishment of the Universal Foods Corporation in 1960.^[1]

Due to internal conflicts, Francisco left to establish Jufran Food Industries, which manufactured Jufran Banana Catsup. UFC was acquired by Southeast Asian Foods (now NutriAsia) in 1996. They continue to make both Jufran and Mafran brands.^[1]

References