|
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Food agency introduces fortified rice in autonomous region
IN LINE with government's thrust to curb micronutrient deficiency in the country, the National Food Authority (NFA) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) has introduced nutrient fortified rice.
NFA-Armm Regional Director Edgar Bentolan said fortifying rice with important nutrient like iron can greatly advance government's campaign to address the incidence of under-nutrition, and other related conditions among the people in the region.
The lack of vitamin A, iron and iodine, which are needed to keep a sound mind and healthy body, leads to micronutrient deficiency. This condition is said to be most prevalent nutritional disorder in the world today especially in poor and developing countries.
The disorder is a main contributing factor in the occurrence of weak, sickly and unproductive populace a hindrance in the growth of a nation.
Iron fortified rice would supplement the dietary nutritional intake and alleviate iron deficiency or anemia among children and lactating mothers.
Results of a study conducted by the NFA show iron fortification of rice do not affect the taste and sensory characteristics both on the raw and cooked rice.
Iron fortified rice is now available at various Bigasan ng Bayan outlets at the local public markets.
Aside from rice, the government would soon launch other nutrient fortified commodities such as sugar, flour and cooking oil with NFA having been tasked to oversee the implementation of the rice fortification program.
(March 5, 2006 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
|
