Key Takeaways
- New food technologies introduced by DOST-FNRI aim to combat malnutrition and energy deficiency in Filipinos.
- Stunting affects 23.6% of Filipino children under five, with higher rates in rural and low-income areas.
- The institute developed products like PRO+GOLD and iron-fortified coconut vinegar to provide affordable nutrition options.
Addressing Nutrition Challenges in the Philippines
The Department of Science and Technology — Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) has unveiled several new food technologies aimed at improving nutrition among Filipino families. The innovations include instant rice, ready-to-cook corn, high-energy biscuits, protein-enriched beverages, and iron-fortified vinegar, designed specifically to tackle significant nutritional gaps in the country.
The latest National Nutrition Survey (NNS) 2023 indicates a troubling trend, with 23.6% of children aged 0-59 months experiencing stunting, a condition linked to poor nutrition and repeated infections. This issue is particularly pronounced in rural areas and among families in poverty. The consequences of stunting include cognitive and educational challenges, along with increased risk of chronic diseases. DOST-FNRI has responded by creating complementary food products like Coco Puff and Coco Bisc to mitigate these factors.
Additionally, the survey revealed that 70% of children aged 6 months to 5 years face chronic energy deficiency (CED), while 80% of children aged 6 to 12 years are not receiving adequate energy. To combat these deficiencies, the DOST-FNRI has launched various high-protein and energy-rich foods. For older adults, who are particularly susceptible to sarcopenia—a loss of muscle mass with age—DOST-FNRI introduced PRO+GOLD, a high-protein beverage designed to meet their nutritional needs affordably. One serving supplies about 17 grams of protein, which is equivalent to that found in three chicken drumsticks.
Iron deficiency is another significant concern, as data shows that nearly 22% of pregnant women and 17% of older adults struggle with this issue. To address this, DOST-FNRI has developed iron-fortified spiced coconut vinegar that boasts a nutrient retention rate over a shelf life of at least 12 months. This product delivers 30% of the recommended iron intake for young adults and can be used in popular Filipino dishes without losing its nutritive value.
Through a concerted effort in technology transfer and community engagement, DOST-FNRI aims to ensure that these innovative food solutions become readily available, offering Filipino families accessible and nutritious options to improve their overall health and well-being.
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