By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.
Last May 7, a position was approved for the implementation of a food nutrition requirement initiative. That was commendable and technically correct. But if implemented immediately, the absence of other critical considerations such as economic and social aspects may result in unintentional considerable harm. This will adversely affect agriculture, food security and the welfare of farmers and fisherfolk. A holistic approach must now be added to this excellent work.
On that same day, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) governing board adopted the Philippine National Nutrient Profile Model (PNPM) as the national technical reference for food marketing, regulation, package labeling, fiscal measures and other policy applications.
The levels recommended are correct for the ideal long-term targets. But they should have an implementation timeframe, with the appropriate support plan and budget. In the meantime, holistic work is needed to determine the appropriate required levels today.
The PNPM is a government system used to classify food and drinks according to how healthy or how unhealthy they are, based on their nutrient content. Examples are total fat, sugar, and sodium. It is a source guide for packaged foods.
