MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, March 16 (PIA) --- The iron premix (I-Mix) used in the fortification of Iron Fortified Rice (I-Rice) is certified “halal,” an Arabic word which means that it is lawful/allowed under Islamic dietary guidelines.
This was clarified by Lanao del Sur Provincial Manager Sittienaidah Sampaco of the National Food Authority (NFA) here during the re-launching of the I-Rice program held yesterday, March 15.
Sampaco said the I-Rice program is one measure of the government to address the problems on malnutrition in the country.
"Iron fortification of rice was first launched in 2005 in compliance with Republic Act 8976 or the Philippine Food Fortification Act of 2000 which seeks to address the alarming micronutrient deficiency among children nationwide," she said.
Micronutrient deficiency which is one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders refers to the lack of essential vitamins and trace minerals such as vitamin A, iron, iodine, and zinc.
Sampaco explained that RA 8976 which took effect on November 2004 calls for the mandatory fortification of staple foods such as rice, flour, cooking oil, and refined sugar.
By adding vitamins and minerals to commonly eaten foods lacking basic nutrients, fortification has been eyed as the most cost effective means to eliminate micronutrient deficiency, she said.
During the re-launching, Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) Chief Dr. Alinader Minalang, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Mangoda Dima Jr., and City Health Officer Dr. Faisal Idris all cited the importance of micronutrients in the body.
They also underscored the nutritional benefits that can be derived from eating I-Rice and said I-Rice helps boost body systems to fight anemia and infections, maintains alertness and endurance and improves mental and physical development.
It is also good for lactating mothers and helps prevent child birth defects and mortality during pregnancy and that there can be no over dosage in eating I-Rice because it only provide one-half (½) of the daily recommended energy nutrient intake for iron.
A declaration of commitment was also signed by the guests together with other government implementers, rice industry players, and media to show their commitment to support anti-hunger programs of the government and to help promote I-Rice consumption in the province.
I-Rice is available in all accredited NFA rice retail outlets nationwide at P27 per kilo. (Apipa Bagumbaran/PIA-10 Marawi)
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