Scientists urge Ilocos Norte to produce iron-fortified rice

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—How much does it take to localize the production of iron fortified rice?

For just an additional two pesos per kilo of ordinary rice, one can blend its own iron-fortified kernel which is essential for proper growth and development of the human body often lacking in diet especially among infants, children, and women at reproductive age.

In a techno forum held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan here on June 25, 2018, the Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) in Ilocos Norte in cooperation with Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corporation urged local government units and other stakeholders here to locally produce iron-fortified rice and help eradicate cases of malnutrition in the province.

Racky Doctor, Nutridense Manufacturing Corporation president said the company is looking for partners here to spread the production and consumption of iron-fortified rice.

Nutridense Manufacturing Corp. base is in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan

In support of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology, Doctor said the iron fortification program can also create employment as it puts more value to ordinary rice harvest.

In an interview, DOST provincial director Jonathan Viernes said Ilocos Norte residents can take advantage of it.

Under the Food Fortification Law, it stipulates the mandatory fortification of staples like rice with iron and voluntary fortification of processed foods with iron, Vitamin A and or iodine.

Rice fortification with iron started in 2004 but its adoption has been slow.

With improved technology, Mr. Viernes expressed optimism local government units and other government agencies and private stakeholders will support this move and make a great difference in combatting micronutrients deficiency in the country.

The provincial nutrition action officers, municipal social welfare and development officers and municipal nutrition action officers of the different municipalities in the province participated in the forum.

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