FNRI Develops Nutritious, Affordable Treats to Fight Malnutrition

Manila (PIA)– In the Philippines, undernutrition is persistent among infants and young children. There is also an emerging prevalence of obesity or overnutrition among adolescents and adults. This co- existence of under-and overnutrition is referred to as the double burden malnutrition.

Moreover, the Philippines is among the countries with the highest incidence of non-communicable diet-related diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Diabetes is characterized by increased in blood sugar level.

Studies have shown that a diet with low glycemic index food may improve diabetes control, reduce cardiovascular risk factors and reduce body weight. Foods low in glycemic index will not raise blood sugar level abruptly.

Related to this, the FNRI has developed three functional food products called monggo frozen yogurt, instant mashed sweet potato premix and brown rice puto premix.

Locally- grown crops such as monggo beans, sweet potato and brown rice were utilized to develop the said products.

All products were found acceptable and microbiologically safe based on the Philippine’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Instant mashed sweet potato premix is high in dietary fiber and low in fat, while brown rice puto premix is also high in dietary fiber. Both food products are ideal for weight watchers.

Interested entrepreneurs can avail of FNRI technology business incubator (TBI) program for the technology transfer and commercialization.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (Josefina T. Gonzales, FNRI-DOST S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)