Further to Nutrition Cluster Advisory No. 1, S. 2020 on “Guidelines on LGU Nutrition Actions Relative to COVID-19”, the Nutrition Cluster released the 2nd Advisory, “Recommendations on Healthful and Nutritious Family Food Packs and Sustainable Food Sources” last April 28, 2020. This advisory is basically a recommendation to all local government units and their partners, providing detailed guidance in the distribution of healthy and nutritious food packs during this state of public health emergency.

In order to diversify and enhance the nutrient content of family food packs, LGUs are strongly encouraged to optimize the use of local fresh produce of dark green and yellow vegetables, root crops, legumes/beans/seeds, fruits, poultry, egg, meat/fish or pasteurized fresh milk. Prioritize buying the fresh produce items directly from the small farmers, fisherfolks, and cooperatives within or adjacent communities to protect and promote the local economy. They are not only cheaper and fresh but also more accessible because they do not require long period of transport. Limit donations of foods high in fats, sugar and/or salt unless healthier food alternatives are not accessible. These foods are discouraged as they do not meet WHO and Philippine Food and Dietary Guidelines for a healthy diet and may further compromise the health status of people with pre-existing disease conditions. LGUs are enjoined to promote the establishment of home gardens. Given the indefinite duration of the community quarantine, this strategy will allow households to produce own fresh and nutritious vegetables and help reduce family food expense. LGUs may distribute seeds, seedlings, through the assistance of the local city/municipal agriculture office.

Barangay Nutrition Scholars, Barangay Health Workers and frontline workers helping in the packing and distribution of food are recommended to practice food safety and sanitation procedures and try to reduce food wastage at all times. They should observe handwashing with water and soap before food handling; observe proper wearing of face mask and practice social distancing. They are also encouraged to provide nutrition information to highlight the importance of consumption of healthy and nutritious foods in boosting the body’s immunity amid this COVID-19 health emergency. The National Nutrition Council provides infographics - relevant nutrition information which can be downloaded in the official website of NNC, nnc.gov.ph.
Here in Davao Region, NNC XI acknowledged the efforts of our LGUs as they provide Nutrition interventions through their Barangay Nutrition Scholars and Barangay Health Workers by flexing them as Nutrition Heroes in this time of Pandemic. Qualified BNSs also availed the Social Amelioration Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This is under the Republic Act (RA) 11469 or the “ Bayanihan to Heal as One Act ”, which amounts to P5, 000 to P8, 000 to support low-income families or those in the subsistence economy or workers in the informal economy, and with members belonging to the vulnerable sector, who are deemed to be the most affected by the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. JWRF/MTLU