DOST to assist put up of city’s salt iodization plant
City officials recently authorized the city’s chief executive representing the local government to enter into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the implementation of the science and technology intervention for the establishment of the salt iodization plant in the city.
Under Resolution No. 543, series of 2023, the council stated that the body, through Resolution No. 219, series of 2022 as amended by Resolution No. 341, series of 2022, allowed the use of the ground floor of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) Annex building for the salt iodization project of the Baguio City Nutrition Multipurpose Cooperative. (BCN-MPC) that was started as early as 1996.
Earlier, the mayor requested authority from the council to enter into an agreement with the DOST-CAR for the implementation of the project for the establishment of a salt iodization plant in the city.
The council noted that the amount of PhP484,772.50 funding was approved under the DOST-CAR calendar year 2023 local grants–in-aid to be downloaded to the city government for the implementation of the aforesaid project.
Further, the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of the DOST has engineered a revolutionary iodizing machine. This innovation is not merely a machine marvel, but it is a testament to DOST’s commitment to improving the lives of the citizens through scientific advancements.
The primary objective of the machine is to facilitate the iodization process for small-scale salt processors. By empowering the said processors to contribute to health and nutrition programs, it paved the way for fortified iodized salt production that can potentially transform the landscape.
Republic Act (RA) 8172, otherwise known as the Asin Law, plays a pivotal role in combating micronutrient malnutrition across the nation as it recognizes the pressing need to take proactive measures.
The said legislation underscores the importance of iodine fortification in salt, a fundamental staple in the diets of both animals and humans.
In the Cordillera, it has been grappling with endemic iodine deficiency disorders, a situation that demands the immediate attention and collaborative action of concerned stakeholders.
The council stipulated that the agreement should be returned to the body for confirmation in the future. – Dexter A. See
