FNRI-DOST shared its recent results from its completed research on food and nutrition to stakeholders, partners, and end-users on 3-5 July 2017 through its annual seminar series. PSND INc. officers and BODs (Riza G. Abilgos-Ramos of the PhilRice, Daniel G. Salunga and Abigail A. Pabro of NNC, and Leah M. Felismino of FAO) were among the invited participants together withDr. Corazon VC. Barba, former FNRI Director and PSND, Inc. adviser.
The two-and-a-half-day event featured panel discussion on the use of healthy plate or Pinggang Pinoy, plenary sessions on food and beverage intakes of Filipinos, technical sessions on nutrition policies and interventions, food product development and safety, and interactive sessions for local health workers among others.
Some of the findings presented were the fact that food security is directly associated with calorie and macronutrient intakes. Unfortunately, food insecurity was higher in rural households who are basically our food producers.
Decreasing intake but increasing in terms of calorie was noted from 2008 to 2013. More than 65% from cereals and products to energy intake was significantly observed. Six out of 10 does not meet energy and protein intakes. The recommendation now is for sugar to be less than 5% of total energy intake to prevent further increase in NCDs such as Diabetes.
Stronger support to agriculture sector for weather-resilient crops was also emphasized.
Ms. Divorah V. Aguila, Senior Supervising Research Specialist of FNRI and Public Relations Officer of PSND, Inc. shared information on iFNRI website. The discussion also encouraged participants to register and explore the website through an activity. Mr. Daniel Salunga, Nutrition Officer II of NNC and Board Member of PSND, Inc. also served as a judge on the undergraduate research studies. He was also a winner of the same contest four years ago having a study related with nutrition and social media.
The seminar ended with a bang when VP Leni Robredo graced the closing program, awarded the winners of scientific paper and poster competition, and delivered special message for all attendees. She emphasized the need for sustainable solution to end hunger which cannot be solved by feeding alone, but with nutritious and affordable foods.
