Islamabad: A consultation on food fortification aimed at addressing malnutrition in Pakistan was held at Parliament House in Islamabad, organized by the National Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs in collaboration with Nutrition International. The session emphasized the importance of fortifying staple foods to combat micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among women and children.

Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Convenor of the Taskforce, chaired the session, highlighting the pressing issue of malnutrition in Pakistan. She stressed that fortifying wheat flour, edible oil, and salt with essential nutrients is a cost-effective intervention that can benefit a large segment of the population.

The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to international development goals, specifically SDG 2, which focuses on ending hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture. Ms. Malik emphasized that nutrition security is crucial for public health and economic development.

Nutrition International provided a detailed presentation on the benefits of food fortification. Industry representatives addressed operational challenges such as upgrading machinery and ensuring quality control. Ms. Malik noted that the additional cost of fortification is minimal compared to its potential health benefits.

Parliamentarians expressed their commitment to bridging the gap between legislation and implementation. They underscored the need for public awareness and effective enforcement to ensure lasting results. Engaging religious scholars and community leaders was suggested as a strategy to enhance public understanding and acceptance.

The session highlighted the importance of localized approaches, recognizing that public engagement strategies in Islamabad may differ from those needed in rural areas. Attendees included several Members of the National Assembly and a Senator, all reaffirming their dedication to advancing food fortification efforts in Pakistan.