AN OFFICIAL of the Department of Health (DOH) is urging local government units (LGUs) to establish a proper monitoring scheme for ambulant vendors outside schools.
According to DOH – Environmental-Related Diseases Division Program Officer Rolando Santiago, it is crucial for LGUs to take the necessary steps that will ensure food safety for students.
“Dapat i-control ng local na pamahalaan ang mga ambulant vendors to ensure food safety,” said Santiago.
He suggested the establishment of a registry of the ambulant vendors, especially those handling the food, as well as providing them with the necessary training.
Another method is by providing designated selling areas and food storage facilities.
“Ang mga ambulant vendor madalas wala silang enough knowledge sa food safety at no proper facility to ensure food safety, like to maintain temperature ng food,” said Santiago.
The Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines (NDAP) meanwhile called on the government to require schools to have a nutritionist or dietitian who will check the menu being served to students in the canteens.
“Dapat may maayos na monitoring by nutritionists, dietitians para sure na ang dietary requirements ng mga students ay nami-meet,” NDAP president Dr. Adela Jamorabo-Ruiz said.
Based on Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 8, Series of 2007, public schools are only directed to sell only nutrient-rich food and fortified food products shall be sold in school canteens. (HDT/Sunnex)