To sensitize the masses and the functionaries related to MDM and ICDS about the benefits and need of using fortified foods, the Department of Food Safety in collaboration with Drug and Food Control Organisation today organised a camp at GDC women Anantnag sponsored by PERFETTI. Several resource persons while deliberating on the issue underlined the ill effects of mal nutrition and impressed upon the attendees the need for fortification of staple foods like rice etc. Diseases caused due to deficiency of micro nutrients like lack of iron, folic acid, victims, proteins etc in the food can be fulfilled by fortification. The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr Piyush Singla while addressing the gathering as chief guest said that fortification of traditional diets would be instrumental in meeting out the nutrient demand of the body and prevent diseases caused due to deficiency of vitamins, minerals, etc.
He laid emphasis on the need to take remedial steps to prevent malnutrition among infants and young children. He said that refining of dietary habits and addition of fruits to the diet essentially provides one with a healthy and balanced diet. He said that a healthy young generation is the foundation for a healthy nation. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner Food Safety Kashmir, Irfana Ahmad said that the objective to organise such camps is to make the people aware about the nutritional value of the food items and to disseminate knowledge regarding fortification.Resource person from FFRC Vivek Arora presented a brief presentation of fortification and nutritional requirement a body needs with reference to national statistics.The programme was attended by Deputy Commissioner Food safety Kashmir, PO ICDS, CEO, BMO designated Nodal Food Safety Officer, ICDS officials, students beside large number of MDM in-charges.