By Jamilu Abubakar
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, has expressed concern over the rising cases of malnutrition in the country, revealing that Nigeria ranks as the second country with the highest number of malnourished persons globally.
Regional Director of SON in the North-East, Yakzum Danlami, stated this during a training programme on large-scale food fortification for Small and Medium Enterprises in Gombe.
Danlami said participants drawn from states across the North-East were being trained on the processes and importance of food fortification with essential nutrients to help reduce malnutrition in the country.
He explained that grains, oils and spices are among the food products being targeted under the fortification programme.
According to him, the initiative is a collaboration between SON, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition and other relevant government agencies.
The regional director added that participating SMEs would be monitored to ensure compliance with fortification standards, stressing the need for proper labeling of products fortified with nutrients such as Vitamins A and D.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Gombe State Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism said the training brought together professionals, stakeholders, technical experts and development partners who play vital roles in ensuring the success of food fortification programmes.
He commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for promoting industrial development in the state through the establishment of an industrial park designed to accommodate small, medium and large-scale industries.
One of the participants, Fatiya Auwal, a food processor, said the training had improved her knowledge of food fortification and would help enhance her productivity.
She expressed optimism that the programme would be beneficial to participants and contribute to improving food quality and nutrition in the region.
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